HS 740400 Of refined copper
Quick Answer: Refined copper articles imported under HS 740400 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 6% ad valorem. This Harmonized System code encompasses waste and scrap, as well as powders of refined copper. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the primary duty rates are generally low or zero in major markets, specific subheadings within the US tariff schedule may apply different rates to powders or certain types of scrap. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the generally favorable duty landscape for these refined copper products.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7404001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7404009100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7404009900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7404009100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7404001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7404009900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74040030 | Free | — | — |
| 7404003045 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7404003065 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 74040060 | Free | — | — |
| 7404006045 | — | — | ["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
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 740400 cover?
This subheading covers waste and scrap of refined copper, as well as copper powders and flakes. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes materials that are no longer fit for their original purpose but can be reprocessed. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses discarded articles of refined copper, manufacturing residues, and by-products, provided they are suitable for remelting and reprocessing into new copper products.
What falls outside HS 740400?
The following products are excluded from HS 740400: unwrought refined copper (classified under HS 7403), copper and articles thereof (classified in other headings within Chapter 74), and copper plated with precious metals. For instance, copper wire that is still functional and not considered scrap, or copper pipes and tubes intended for direct use, would be classified elsewhere. Similarly, copper alloys, even if containing a high percentage of copper, are typically classified under HS 7403 if unwrought, or under other specific headings if they are finished articles.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 740400?
A common error is misclassifying copper alloys as refined copper scrap. 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 material is a copper alloy, it should be classified under HS 7403 if unwrought, or under other headings if it constitutes a finished article. Confusing scrap that is primarily refined copper with materials that are clearly alloys or finished goods leads to incorrect duty assessments.
How should importers classify products under HS 740400?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 740400 involves a thorough examination of the material's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the material is indeed refined copper and is in a state of waste or scrap, or is a powder or flake. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to ensure accurate classification based on the material's properties and intended use for reprocessing.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 740400?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of refined copper scrap declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3.0% ad valorem applied to the customs value ($50,000 USD × 0.03 = $1,500). It is imperative to check the specific tariff schedule for the destination country, as duty rates can vary significantly.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 740400?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 740400, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which may offer Free entry for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating in certain developing countries, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), potentially resulting in a 0% duty rate. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 740400 (Articles of refined copper)?
The duty rates for HS code 740400, which covers articles of refined copper, can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically Free. However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, the EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff may list specific rates, which can be subject to change. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How is the duty for HS 740400 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of duty for HS code 740400 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if a country imposes a 5% ad valorem duty on refined copper articles and an importer brings in a shipment valued at $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 5% of $10,000 = $500. If the duty were specific, say $0.10 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 500 kilograms, the duty would be: $0.10/kg * 500 kg = $50. The specific calculation method and rate are detailed in the destination country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 740400?
HS code 740400 specifically covers 'Articles of refined copper'. This means the primary classification criterion is that the articles must be made predominantly of refined copper, which is copper of a purity of 99.8% or more by weight. The classification also depends on the form of the article. For example, unwrought refined copper would fall under a different heading (e.g., 7401). This heading is generally for manufactured articles such as wire, plates, sheets, tubes, pipes, and fittings, provided they are not specifically covered by more specialized headings in Chapter 74 or elsewhere in the HS nomenclature.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 740400?
When importing articles of refined copper under HS code 740400, standard import documentation is usually required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are being claimed under a trade agreement. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the copper articles, additional certifications or permits related to material composition, quality standards, or environmental regulations might be necessary. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 740400?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 740400 can be accessed through various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For example, if the importing country is a party to an FTA with the exporting country, goods originating from that exporting country may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Examples include agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), or trade arrangements between the European Union and its partner countries. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.