HS 740311 Refined copper
Quick Answer: Refined copper, classified under HS code 740311, enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a 1% Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, with duty-free entry from various preferential trade partners. This code specifically covers refined copper in the form of cathodes and sections of cathodes. Importers should be aware of the significant preferential duty rates available for US entry, which can impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, providing crucial insights for trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7403110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7403110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7403110000 | 1% | Free (17 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 7403.11?
Imports of Refined copper 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, 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
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 740311 cover?
This subheading covers refined copper, specifically in the form of cathodes. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, refined copper is defined as copper having a purity of 99.8% or more by weight. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that cathodes are the primary form of refined copper classified here, typically produced through electrolytic refining processes, presenting a high degree of purity essential for various industrial applications.
What falls outside HS 740311?
The following products are excluded from HS 740311: copper in other forms such as wire, bars, rods, or plates, which are classified under different subheadings within Chapter 74. Also excluded are copper alloys, even if they contain a high percentage of copper, as they are specifically addressed in other HS codes. Unrefined copper, or copper with a purity below 99.8%, is also not covered by this subheading, and scrap copper would fall under different classifications, typically within heading 7404.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 740311?
A common error is the misclassification of copper alloys as refined copper. 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. If a product is a copper alloy, it should be classified under heading 7403.21 (for copper-zinc base alloys, brass) or other relevant alloy headings, rather than as refined copper, even if its copper content is very high, as the presence of alloying elements dictates its specific classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 740311?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 740311 involves verifying the material's composition and physical form. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the supplier to confirm the copper purity is 99.8% or greater by weight. The product must also be in the form of cathodes. Cross-referencing this information with the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 740311?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of refined copper cathodes, declared at a customs value of $80,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,600.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($80,000 USD × 0.02 = $1,600.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 7403.11.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 740311?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 740311, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free entry for originating goods. Originating goods from Canada and Mexico typically benefit from this. For goods originating in certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free entry. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin for USMCA, or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 740311, 'Refined copper'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for refined copper under HS code 740311 is typically 0.00%. However, preferential duty rates can apply based on trade agreements. For example, rates can be Free (0.00%) under agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), among others. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) for definitive rates. Sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff should be referenced.
How is 'refined copper' classified under HS code 740311, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 740311 specifically covers 'Refined copper and articles thereof, unwrought copper'. The primary classification criterion is the purity of the copper. Refined copper typically has a minimum copper content of 99.8% by weight. This classification excludes copper alloys and copper that has undergone significant processing beyond simple refining into specific shapes for further manufacturing. Verification of purity through assay certificates or manufacturer declarations is often required.
What documentation is typically required for importing refined copper (HS 740311)?
Importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide several key documents when importing refined copper under HS 740311. These generally include a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. A manufacturer's declaration or assay certificate confirming the purity of the copper (e.g., meeting the 99.8% minimum for refined copper) may also be requested by customs authorities to substantiate the HS classification.
How is the import duty for refined copper calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for refined copper (HS 740311) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate were 0.5% (hypothetical, as it's often 0.00%), and you imported 10,000 kilograms of refined copper valued at $5.00 per kilogram, the total value would be $50,000. The duty calculation would be: $50,000 (value) × 0.005 (duty rate) = $250. In many cases, the MFN rate is 0.00%, resulting in $0 duty. Always confirm the applicable duty rate and the basis of valuation (usually CIF - Cost, Insurance, and Freight) with the importing country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for refined copper (HS 740311)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing them to Free (0.00%) for refined copper (HS 740311). Common examples include agreements between the United States and countries like Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Australia (AU). The European Union has agreements with numerous partners (e.g., CETA with Canada, EFTA countries), and the UK has its own set of trade deals post-Brexit. Importers should check if their country of origin has an active FTA with the importing country and ensure they meet all rules of origin requirements to benefit from these reduced or eliminated duties. The specific preferential codes (e.g., 'A*', 'AU', 'CL', 'KR') listed in tariff schedules indicate which agreements apply.