HS 740940 Of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver)
Quick Answer: Plates, sheets, and strip of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver) imported under HS 740940 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.80% ad valorem, and the US at 3% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification specifically covers flat-rolled products made from these specialized copper alloys, often used in marine applications, coinage, and decorative elements due to their corrosion resistance and aesthetic qualities. Importers should be aware of the varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates and potential for preferential duty treatment in the US, as detailed on platforms like CustomTariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7409400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7409400000 | 4.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7409400000 | 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 7409.40?
Imports of Of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver) 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 740940 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver), which are characterized by their specific metallic compositions. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these alloys are defined by their copper content and the presence of nickel and/or zinc. For instance, cupro-nickel typically contains significant amounts of nickel, while nickel silver is an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc, often used for its silvery appearance and corrosion resistance. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database provide detailed notes confirming this scope, focusing on the alloy composition as the primary classification determinant.
What falls outside HS 740940?
The following products are excluded from HS 740940: unwrought copper-nickel alloys, copper-nickel or copper-nickel-zinc alloy powders, and articles manufactured from these flat-rolled products, such as tubes, pipes, or finished components. For example, a copper-nickel alloy wire (HS 740990) or a finished coin made from nickel silver (likely classified under HS Chapter 71) would not fall under this specific subheading. The key distinction is that HS 740940 pertains exclusively to flat-rolled forms, such as sheets, plates, and strips, of the specified alloys.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 740940?
A common error is misclassifying products based on their appearance or end-use rather than their precise material composition. For instance, mistaking a copper-nickel alloy that is not flat-rolled for a product under this subheading, or conversely, classifying a flat-rolled product of a different copper alloy (e.g., pure copper or brass) under 740940. 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. The specific alloy composition is paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 740940?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 740940 involves a thorough examination of the material composition and the physical form of the imported goods. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed a flat-rolled form (sheet, plate, strip) and that it is made from a copper-nickel base alloy or a copper-nickel-zinc base alloy. Consulting the supplier's technical specifications, material certifications, and the relevant tariff schedule notes (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) is essential to confirm the alloy percentages and ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 740940?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of cupro-nickel flat-rolled sheets, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $450.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 7409.40.00. The calculation is: 3.0% × $15,000 USD = $450.00. This rate applies to goods not eligible for preferential treatment under any trade agreement.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 740940?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 740940, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. For preferential treatment, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation depend on the origin country and the terms of the applicable trade agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 740940 (copper-nickel or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 740940 is typically 4.80% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), some developing countries may have duty-free access. Specific rates can vary significantly based on the country of origin. Always consult the latest tariff schedule for the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your specific shipment.
How is HS code 740940 defined, and what are the classification criteria?
HS code 740940 specifically covers plates, sheets, and strip of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver). The primary classification criterion is the material composition. Cupro-nickel alloys typically contain copper and nickel, while nickel silver alloys contain copper, nickel, and zinc. The physical form must be plates, sheets, or strip, which are generally flat-rolled products of a certain thickness. Exclusions would typically be wire, bars, or other shapes not fitting the definition of plates, sheets, or strip.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 740940?
When importing goods classified under HS code 740940, standard import documentation is required. This 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 is often necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country and the specific alloy, laboratory analysis or manufacturer's declarations certifying the alloy composition might be requested by customs authorities to verify compliance with the HS code definition.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 740940?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods falling under HS code 740940. For example, agreements like the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), agreements with countries like South Korea (KOR-US FTA), Australia (AUS-US FTA), and various other bilateral or regional agreements often grant reduced or duty-free access for qualifying goods originating from partner countries. The specific preferential rates and eligibility criteria (e.g., rules of origin) are detailed within each trade agreement and should be verified against the importing country's tariff schedule.
Can you provide a numerical example of how import duty for HS code 740940 is calculated?
Certainly. Let's assume a shipment of copper-nickel alloy sheets (HS 740940) originating from a country with a standard MFN duty rate of 4.80% ad valorem. If the commercial invoice value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 USD × 4.80% = $10,000 USD × 0.048 = $480 USD. If the duty were based on weight, for example, a specific rate of $0.10 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 500 kg, the duty would be 500 kg × $0.10/kg = $50 USD. Always confirm whether the duty is ad valorem (based on value) or specific (based on quantity/weight) as indicated in the applicable tariff schedule.