HS 731700 Made from wire

Quick Answer: Nails, tacks, drawing pins, etc., made from wire, imported under HS 731700 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 4% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers metal fasteners such as common iron or steel nails, whether or not with heads of other materials, and similar articles. Importers should note the significant variation in US tariff treatment compared to the duty-free entry in the UK and EU. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and optimize duty payments across different markets.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7317002000 0.00 % — —
7317006000 0.00 % — —
7317008000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7317002000 0.00 % — —
7317006000 0.00 % — —
7317008000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7317005502 — — ["kg"]
7317005503 — — ["kg"]
7317005508 — — ["kg"]
7317005501 — — ["kg"]
7317005505 — — ["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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

Trade Volume 2023

US$1.1B
ImportsExports

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 731700 cover?

This subheading covers nails, tacks, drawing pins, and similar articles, of iron or steel, whether or not with heads of other materials, but excluding those with heads of plastics. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes items manufactured from wire, such as common nails, panel pins, and finishing nails. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing the material and form of the fasteners.

What falls outside HS 731700?

The following products are excluded from HS 731700: screws, bolts, nuts, and similar threaded articles (heading 7318), which are distinguished by their threads. Also excluded are staples of iron or steel in strips or lengths (heading 8305), and pins and needles for all purposes of iron or steel, not elsewhere specified or included (heading 7319). Items with heads made of plastics, even if the shank is of iron or steel wire, are also classified elsewhere, typically under heading 3926.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 731700?

A common error is misclassifying threaded fasteners like screws and bolts under this heading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Heading 7317 specifically refers to "nails, tacks, drawing pins, etc.," while heading 7318 covers "screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws, screw hooks and eyes, screw clips and the like, threaded, of iron or steel." Confusing these distinct product types leads to incorrect duty assessments.

How should importers classify products under HS 731700?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 731700 involves a detailed examination of the product's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the item is indeed a nail, tack, or drawing pin made from iron or steel wire, and that it does not possess threads or a plastic head. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes is crucial for accurate determination.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 731700?

A shipment of 10,000 common steel nails weighing 5 kilograms, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.75. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem applied to the declared value ($50 USD × 0.035 = $1.75), plus a specific duty of $0.05 per kilogram ($0.05/kg × 5 kg = $0.25), totaling $2.00. (Note: This is a hypothetical example for illustrative purposes; actual duty rates and calculations may vary. The USITC HTS for heading 7317 shows a combined rate of 3.5% ad valorem and $0.05/kg for MFN.)

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 731700?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 731700. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying nails originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. Similarly, goods originating from countries benefiting from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also receive reduced or Free duty rates. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for certain EU preferences.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 732620 HS 731821 HS 731811 HS 731420 HS 731210 HS 711711

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 731700 (nails, tacks, etc., of iron or steel, with heads, of wire)?

For HS code 731700, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are often 0.00% ad valorem in many major trading blocs. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% MFN rate. The European Union's TARIC system also shows a 0.00% duty for most third countries. The UK Trade Tariff similarly lists a 0.00% duty. However, it is crucial to verify the specific rate applicable to the importing country and any preferential trade agreements that may apply, as rates can vary.

How is the classification of goods under HS code 731700 determined, and what are the key criteria?

HS code 731700 covers 'Nails, tacks, drawing pins, surveying cramps and similar items, of iron or steel, whether or not with heads of other materials; staples in strips of such iron or steel.' The primary classification criteria are: 1. Material: The item must be made of iron or steel. 2. Form: It must be in the form of a nail, tack, drawing pin, surveying cramp, or similar item. 3. Presence of a Head: Most items under this code have a head, although the head material can differ from the body. 4. Wire Construction: The description 'made from wire' implies that the item is formed by drawing or shaping metal wire. Items not meeting these criteria, such as screws or bolts, would be classified elsewhere.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 731700?

Standard import documentation for HS code 731700 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, description, unit price, and total value of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical data sheets if requested by customs authorities to verify classification.

Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS code 731700?

Yes, trade agreements can significantly affect duty rates for HS code 731700. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating in Canada or Mexico may benefit from preferential duty rates, often resulting in a 0.00% duty, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries, which can reduce or eliminate duties on goods like nails and tacks if they originate from those partner countries. Importers must consult the specific trade agreement for the exporting country and ensure the goods meet all origin requirements to claim preferential treatment.

How is the import duty calculated for HS code 731700 if a duty rate other than 0.00% applies?

Import duties for HS code 731700 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a country imposes a 4% ad valorem duty rate on nails classified under 731700, and an importer declares a customs value of $10,000 for a shipment, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 × 4% = $400. Some countries may also apply specific duties (e.g., per kilogram or per piece) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so it is essential to check the specific tariff schedule for the importing country.