HS 740911 Of refined copper

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 740911 is typically 0.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential rates can significantly alter this. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), the duty rate is Free. Importers should always verify the specific preferential rate applicable to their country of origin by consulting the relevant trade agreement schedules or the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Other countries may have different MFN rates, such as 4.80% in some jurisdictions, or specific rates like 3% or 38% depending on the importing country's tariff schedule and any applicable trade agreements or anti-dumping duties.

Classification under HS code 740911 requires the material to be primarily composed of refined copper, meaning it has a high purity level (typically 99.8% or more copper content, as defined by standards like ASTM B170 or equivalent). The physical form must be plates, sheets, or strip. Crucially, the thickness must exceed 0.15 millimeters (mm). If the thickness is 0.15 mm or less, it would likely fall under a different HS code, such as 740919 (for other forms of refined copper). Verification often involves reviewing the product's specifications, mill certificates, or material test reports.

Standard import documentation for HS code 740911 includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, value, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must provide evidence of the material's composition and form, such as a mill certificate or material test report confirming it is refined copper and meets the thickness specifications. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin compliant with the FTA's requirements is mandatory. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all necessary documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays or penalties.

Several trade agreements may offer preferential duty rates for HS code 740911. For instance, agreements involving countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX) under USMCA, South Korea (KR), and others listed with 'Free' access in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule often provide duty-free entry. To leverage these, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the respective trade agreement. This typically involves obtaining a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter and maintaining records to substantiate the claim. Consulting the USITC HTS or the relevant trade agreement text is essential for specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

Let's assume an importer brings 10,000 kilograms of refined copper sheets under HS code 740911 into a country with a 5% ad valorem duty rate and no specific duty. If the declared customs value of the shipment is $50,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Declared Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $50,000 USD × 5% (or 0.05) = $2,500 USD. Importers and customs brokers must ensure the declared value is accurate and compliant with customs valuation rules to avoid penalties. If there were also a specific duty, such as $0.10 per kilogram, the total duty would be the sum of the ad valorem duty and the specific duty: $2,500 USD + (10,000 kg × $0.10/kg) = $2,500 USD + $1,000 USD = $3,500 USD.