HS 731431 Other grill, netting and fencing, welded at the intersection
Quick Answer: Other grill, netting, and fencing, welded at the intersection, enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with rates varying from Free to 45% depending on specific product details and origin. This classification covers metal products, typically iron or steel, formed by welding wires or bars at their points of intersection to create a grid or mesh structure. These are commonly used for applications such as protective barriers, animal enclosures, or reinforcing materials. Importers should carefully review the specific US tariff lines, as the 45% duty rate is significant and may apply to certain types of welded mesh. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate duty assessment and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7314310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7314310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 731431 | — | — | — |
| 73143150 | Free | — | — |
| 7314315080 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7314311000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 7314315010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 731431 cover?
This subheading covers other grill, netting, and fencing made of iron or steel wire, where the wires are welded at each intersection. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes products formed by joining iron or steel wires through welding at each point of contact, creating a mesh or grid structure. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this under Heading 7314 as "Cloth (including endless band for machinery), grill, netting and fencing, of iron or steel wire; expanded metal of iron or steel." Subheading 731431.0000 specifically addresses those welded at the intersection.
What falls outside HS 731431?
The following products are excluded from HS 731431: woven wire cloth not welded at intersections (classified under 731419), knitted or mechanically interlocked fencing (classified under 731449), and expanded metal mesh (classified under 731439). Products made from materials other than iron or steel wire, such as aluminum or plastic netting, are also excluded. For instance, a chain-link fence, typically made by interlocking wires rather than welding at intersections, would not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 731431?
A common error is misinterpreting the welding requirement. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may mistakenly classify woven wire mesh or mechanically interlocked fencing under 731431 if they do not verify that each intersection has been welded. For example, a product described as "welded wire mesh" but which is actually woven would be incorrectly classified.
How should importers classify products under HS 731431?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 731431 involves a thorough examination of the product's construction. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is made of iron or steel wire and that the wires are joined by welding at every intersection. Reviewing product specifications, technical drawings, and potentially requesting samples for physical inspection are crucial steps. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC is also essential to verify the correct subheading and any applicable notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 731431?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of welded steel wire fencing, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 7314.31.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 731431?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 731431, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or a statement on origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 731431 (other grill, netting and fencing, welded at the intersection)?
Import duty rates for HS code 731431 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 0.00% ad valorem, but can be subject to other measures. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a rate of Free for goods from many countries. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment. Always verify if any preferential rates under trade agreements apply.
What specific criteria define goods under HS code 731431, 'other grill, netting and fencing, welded at the intersection'?
HS code 731431 covers metal grill, netting, and fencing made of iron or steel wire. The key classification criterion is that the wires are 'welded at the intersection'. This means that at each point where wires cross, they are joined by welding. This distinguishes them from woven or knitted forms of metal netting. The material must be iron or steel wire. Products not meeting the 'welded at the intersection' criterion, or made from different materials, would be classified under different HS codes.
How is the import duty for HS code 731431 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 731431 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the US MFN duty rate of 3.5% applies, and you import fencing valued at $10,000 USD, the calculation would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD (Duty Amount). Some countries might also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 731431?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 731431, including a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional certifications related to material standards or safety might be requested. Importers and customs brokers should always verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 731431?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 731431. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the EU may benefit from reduced rates, often 0.00%. Similarly, the United States has FTAs with countries like Canada and Mexico (USMCA), Australia, and others, which could provide duty-free or reduced-duty entry for qualifying goods. The UK also has numerous trade agreements post-Brexit that could impact duties. To benefit from these agreements, proof of origin is essential, typically via a Certificate of Origin.