HS 740821 Of copper alloys
Quick Answer: Copper alloy wire imported under HS 740821 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.80%, and the US at a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3%, with preferential duty-free entry for numerous trading partners. This classification specifically covers wire made from copper alloys, which are mixtures of copper with other metals like zinc (brass) or tin (bronze), used in applications ranging from electrical conductors to decorative items. Importers should verify specific alloy compositions and origin country for accurate duty assessment, as the US offers significant tariff reductions for qualifying trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7408210000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7408210000 | 4.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7408210000 | 3% | 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 7408.21?
Imports of Of copper alloys 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 14 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 740821 cover?
This subheading covers copper wires that are specifically made from copper alloys. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Chapter 74 pertains to copper and articles thereof. Subheading 740821, as detailed in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, encompasses wires of copper alloys, excluding those that are insulated or otherwise worked beyond simple forming into wire. The key defining characteristic is the composition of the wire, which must be an alloy of copper, meaning it contains copper mixed with one or more other elements.
What falls outside HS 740821?
The following products are excluded from HS 740821: pure copper wires (classified under 740811 or 740819), insulated copper alloy wires (which fall under Chapter 85), and copper alloy articles that have undergone further processing such as drawing into tubes, bars, or shapes, or those fabricated into specific components. For instance, copper alloy electrical conductors with plastic insulation are typically classified under HS Chapter 85, and solid copper alloy rods or bars would be classified under heading 7407. The distinction lies in the form and the presence of additional working or insulation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 740821?
A common error is misidentifying the material composition. Importers may incorrectly classify pure copper wire under this subheading, or conversely, classify a copper alloy wire as pure copper. Another frequent mistake involves confusion with insulated wires; if the copper alloy wire has any form of electrical insulation, it will be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 85. 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, especially when differentiating between alloys and pure metals.
How should importers classify products under HS 740821?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 740821 involves a thorough examination of the material composition and the physical form of the imported goods. Importers and customs brokers must first ascertain if the wire is made from a copper alloy, meaning it contains copper mixed with other metals or non-metals. Next, they must confirm that the product is indeed a wire and has not undergone significant further working or insulation. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the specific wording of heading 7408 and its subheadings is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 740821?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of brass wire (a copper alloy) declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $750.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 740821. The calculation is: $15,000 (Customs Value) × 0.05 (MFN Duty Rate) = $750.00 (Duty Amount). This example demonstrates an ad valorem duty calculation based on the declared value of the goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 740821?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 740821, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For goods originating from countries that are beneficiaries of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, a GSP Form A may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates, which can vary by country but often result in reduced or zero duties. Documentation requirements are jurisdiction-specific.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 740821, 'Of copper alloys'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 740821 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the MFN rate is often 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for countries with trade agreements. For instance, rates can be Free (0%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) under specific trade agreements. Always consult the latest HTS or relevant tariff database for the most current rates applicable to your country of origin.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 740821, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 740821 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import copper alloy wire valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.04 = $400. Some tariffs may also include specific duties based on weight or other units, so it's crucial to check the specific tariff schedule for the applicable duty basis.
What specific criteria define 'copper alloys' under HS code 740821?
HS code 740821 covers wire of copper alloys. A copper alloy is a metallic material where copper is the principal metal, with one or more other elements added to improve its properties. Common alloying elements include zinc (brass), tin (bronze), nickel, aluminum, or silicon. The classification hinges on the composition; if copper is the predominant metal by weight and the material is not specifically classified elsewhere (e.g., precious metal alloys), it falls under this heading. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the definition and scope of copper alloys.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 740821?
Standard import documentation for HS code 740821 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country's regulations, material test certificates or compliance declarations verifying the copper alloy composition might also be requested to ensure conformity with standards and accurate classification.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 740821?
Several trade agreements can provide reduced or free entry for goods under HS code 740821. For instance, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and bilateral agreements with countries such as South Korea (KORUS FTA) and Australia, which may offer preferential rates. The European Union's TARIC system details rates for countries with which the EU has preferential trade agreements. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant trade agreement text to determine eligibility and required proof of origin.