HS 732020 Helical springs

Quick Answer: Helical springs imported under HS 732020 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 3.9% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification covers springs wound into a helix, commonly known as coil springs, used in a wide array of applications from automotive suspension systems to furniture and machinery. Importers should be aware that while the UK offers duty-free entry, the EU and US apply specific ad valorem duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates based on origin and destination for accurate customs declarations.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7320200000 — — —
7320202000 0.00 % — —
7320202010 0.00 % — —
7320202090 0.00 % — —
7320208100 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7320202000 2.70 % — —
7320202090 2.70 % — —
7320208110 2.70 % — —
7320208500 2.70 % — —
7320208590 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
732020 — — —
73202050 3.9% Free (18 programs) —
7320205020 — — ["kg"]
7320205060 — — ["kg"]
7320201000 3.2% Free (18 programs) ["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 7320.20?

Imports of Helical springs 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)

Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs

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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

Trade Volume 2023

US$479.3M
ImportsExports

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 732020 cover?

This subheading covers helical springs, which are springs wound in a spiral or helix shape. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes both compression springs (which shorten under load) and extension springs (which lengthen under load), as well as torsion springs (which twist under load), provided they are made of steel. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to springs manufactured from iron or steel, exhibiting a helical form, and intended for various mechanical applications.

What falls outside HS 732020?

The following products are excluded from HS 732020: springs made from materials other than iron or steel, such as plastics or precious metals; flat or leaf springs, which are classified under HS 732010; springs not in a helical form; and finished articles that incorporate helical springs but are primarily classified by their main function, such as certain types of furniture or machinery components. For instance, a complete shock absorber assembly would not be classified here, nor would a simple coiled wire used for decorative purposes.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 732020?

A common error is misclassifying helical springs based on their intended use rather than their material and form. For example, a helical spring intended for a vehicle suspension system might be mistakenly classified under a motor vehicle parts heading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Therefore, the inherent characteristics of the spring itself, its material (iron or steel), and its helical form are paramount for correct classification under HS 732020.

How should importers classify products under HS 732020?

The correct procedure for classifying helical springs under HS 732020 involves a multi-step process. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the material of the spring, confirming it is iron or steel. Second, they must verify that the spring's form is helical. Third, they should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to confirm the specific subheading. Finally, they must ensure the product is not specifically excluded by a more specific heading or note, and if it is a finished good incorporating the spring, that the spring is not the essential character.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 732020?

A shipment of 10,000 helical compression springs for industrial machinery, each weighing 0.05 kg and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 7320.20.90.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 732020?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 732020, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating helical springs from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A. For EU imports, the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement allows for duty-free movement of originating goods, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 732010 HS 732620 HS 732090 HS 731520 HS 731210 HS 730120

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 732020 (Helical springs)?

The import duty rates for HS code 732020, which covers helical springs, vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example:

  • United States (USITC): The General (MFN) rate is 3.9% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, springs originating from Australia (AU) or South Korea (KR) may have duty-free entry (0.00%) under specific agreements.
  • European Union (EU TARIC): The Common Customs Tariff (CCT) rate is 2.7% ad valorem for most third countries. Preferential rates can be lower or free for goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements.
  • United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff): The standard import duty is 2.7% ad valorem. Similar to the EU, preferential rates may apply for goods from countries with which the UK has trade agreements.

Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the origin of the goods to determine the applicable duty rate.

How are helical springs classified under HS code 732020, and what are the key criteria?

HS code 732020 specifically covers 'Other springs and leaves for springs, of iron or steel' where the primary characteristic is their helical (spiral or coil) shape. The classification is based on the form and material. Key criteria include:

  1. Form: The spring must be wound in a helical or spiral shape, forming a coil. This distinguishes them from other types of springs like leaf springs (covered under 7320.10).
  2. Material: The springs must be made of iron or steel. Springs made from other materials (e.g., plastics, non-ferrous metals) would be classified elsewhere.
  3. Function: While not explicitly part of the heading, these springs are typically designed to store mechanical energy and release it, or to absorb shock.

It's crucial to ensure the item precisely matches the description of 'helical' or 'coil' springs made of iron or steel to avoid misclassification.

What documentation is typically required for importing helical springs under HS code 732020?

Standard import documentation for HS code 732020 generally includes:

  1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, and total value.
  2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package, including weight and dimensions.
  3. Bill of Lading (Ocean) or Air Waybill (Air): The transport document issued by the carrier.
  4. Certificate of Origin (COO): Essential for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This document verifies that the goods meet the rules of origin of the exporting country.
  5. Import Declaration: Submitted to customs authorities, accurately stating the HS code, value, and origin of the goods.

Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the springs (e.g., if they are part of a larger machine or system), additional certifications or permits might be necessary. Always verify the specific requirements of the destination country's customs authority.

How is the import duty for helical springs calculated? Provide an example.

The import duty for helical springs (HS 732020) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. The customs value is usually the transaction value (the price paid or payable for the goods), plus certain costs like shipping and insurance to the port of entry.

Example Calculation:

Let's assume you are importing helical springs into the United States, and the applicable Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 732020 is 3.9%. The declared customs value of the shipment is $10,000 USD. The shipping and insurance costs to the US port of entry are $500 USD.

  1. Determine the Assessable Value: Customs Value ($10,000) + Shipping & Insurance ($500) = $10,500 USD.
  2. Calculate the Duty: Assessable Value × Duty Rate = Duty Amount. $10,500 USD × 3.9% (or 0.039) = $409.50 USD.

Therefore, the import duty payable would be $409.50 USD. If a preferential rate applies (e.g., 0.00% from a Free Trade Agreement partner), the duty would be $0.00 USD.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 732020?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential (often reduced or zero) duty rates for helical springs (HS 732020) depending on the origin of the goods and the importing country. Some prominent examples include:

  • United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): Goods originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the US, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin.
  • European Union (EU) Agreements: The EU has numerous Association Agreements and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide (e.g., with South Korea, Japan, Canada). Goods originating from these partner countries may receive preferential tariff treatment.
  • United Kingdom (UK) Global Tariff: Post-Brexit, the UK maintains its own tariff schedule, which includes preferential rates for goods from countries with which it has signed trade agreements (e.g., Australia, Japan, Singapore).
  • World Trade Organization (WTO) Most Favored Nation (MFN) Rates: While not a preferential agreement in the FTA sense, WTO MFN rates are generally applied to imports from member countries that do not have a specific preferential agreement in place.

Importers must verify the specific terms of each agreement, including the rules of origin, and ensure they have the necessary documentation (like a Certificate of Origin) to claim preferential treatment.