HS 731821 Non-threaded articles

Quick Answer: Articles of iron or steel, not threaded, imported under HS 731821 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at 5.8% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers items such as screws, bolts, nuts, and similar threaded articles that are not designed for screwing or threading. Significant trade considerations include potential preferential duty rates for certain countries in the US market, as indicated by CustomTariffs data. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific country-of-origin rules and any applicable trade agreements to ensure accurate duty assessment.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7318210000 0.00 % — —
7318210021 0.00 % — —
7318210031 0.00 % — —
7318210039 0.00 % — —
7318210091 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7318210021 3.70 % — —
7318210039 3.70 % — —
7318210095 3.70 % — —
7318210000 3.70 % — —
7318210031 3.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7318210030 — — ["kg"]
73182100 5.8% Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) 2.9% (1 programs) —
7318210090 — — ["kg"]

Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.

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.

Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 7318.21?

Imports of Non-threaded articles may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.

United States (HTSUS)

European Union (TARIC)

Preferential rate data not yet available.

United Kingdom

Preferential rate data not yet available.

Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.

Data compiled by HSRates.

Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?

Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.

Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 731821 cover?

This subheading covers non-threaded articles of iron or steel, specifically those that are not screws, bolts, nuts, or similar threaded fasteners. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes items like rivets, cotters, cotter-pins, washers, and other similar metal components used for fastening or joining, which do not rely on screw threads for their function. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on items that secure or position components without threaded engagement.

What falls outside HS 731821?

The following products are excluded from HS 731821: all threaded articles such as screws, bolts, and nuts, which are classified under HS 731811 through 731819. Also excluded are nails and similar articles (HS 7317), and pins and needles of iron or steel (HS 7317 or 7319). For instance, a common steel nail used in construction is classified under HS 7317, not 731821, as it is a pointed fastener driven by impact, not thread engagement.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 731821?

A common error is misclassifying small, non-threaded metal components that might resemble washers or pins but have a specific function covered elsewhere. For example, certain types of split pins or spring pins, while non-threaded, might fall under specific subheadings within HS 7319 if they are designed as elastic retaining pins. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.

How should importers classify products under HS 731821?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 731821 involves a thorough examination of the item's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 7318. Confirming that the article is made of iron or steel and lacks any threaded features is the primary step, followed by verifying it is not specifically covered by a more precise heading or subheading.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 731821?

A shipment of 10,000 steel washers, each weighing approximately 5 grams, with a total declared customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $500 USD = $25.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 7318.21.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 731821?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 731821, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The UK's Free Trade Agreement with the EU also offers preferential rates, often Free, for goods meeting origin criteria. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 731811 HS 731819 HS 731829 HS 731813 HS 731823 HS 731822

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 731821 (Non-threaded articles of iron or steel)?

Import duty rates for HS code 731821 vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example:

  • United States (USITC): The U.S. Generally Required Duty (GRD) is 3.70% ad valorem. Under the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), the rate is Free.
  • European Union (EU TARIC): The Common Customs Tariff (CCT) rate is 3.5% ad valorem for most countries. Preferential rates may apply under various EU trade agreements.
  • United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff): The standard UK Global Tariff rate is 3.70% ad valorem. Preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the UK has a trade agreement.

Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable to their country of import and the origin of the goods.

How is the duty for HS code 731821 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 731821 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for the United States is 3.70% and an importer brings in non-threaded articles valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows:

$10,000 (Value) × 3.70% (Duty Rate) = $370.00 (Import Duty).

Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, but for 731821, ad valorem is most common. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.

What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 731821?

HS code 731821 covers 'Non-threaded articles' of iron or steel, specifically those that are similar to screws and bolts but lack the threaded feature. This includes items such as washers, collars, pins, cotters, and rivets. The primary criteria for classification are:

  1. Material: The article must be made of iron or steel.
  2. Form: It must be a 'non-threaded article'. This means it does not have a helical ridge (thread) designed for engagement with a corresponding internal thread.
  3. Function/Similarity: While not explicitly stated in the heading, items classified here often serve a fastening or connecting purpose, similar to threaded fasteners, but achieve this through other means (e.g., pins, rivets) or act as components (e.g., washers).

Items that are threaded, such as screws, bolts, and nuts, fall under other headings within Chapter 73.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 731821, and what documentation is typically required?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 731821. For instance:

  • United States: Agreements like the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU) may offer duty-free entry. Other agreements might provide reduced rates.
  • European Union: The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide (e.g., Canada, Japan, South Korea) that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods originating from those partner countries.
  • United Kingdom: The UK Global Tariff reflects rates post-Brexit, and preferential rates are available under agreements with countries like Australia, Canada, and Japan.

To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need to provide a Proof of Origin, such as a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin on the commercial invoice, issued by the exporter in the partner country. This document must meet the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations.

Are there specific documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing goods under HS code 731821?

While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading (or air waybill) are standard import documents, additional requirements for HS code 731821 can arise depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the goods.

Key considerations include:

  1. Proof of Origin: As mentioned, crucial for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This must comply with the specific rules of origin for the applicable FTA.
  2. Country of Origin Marking: Many countries require goods to be permanently marked with their country of origin (e.g., 'Made in China'). Failure to comply can result in penalties or additional duties.
  3. Safety and Quality Standards: While less common for basic non-threaded steel articles, if these items are intended for specific applications (e.g., automotive, construction), there might be national standards or certifications required.

Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country and verify if any special declarations or certifications are needed for the particular product being imported.