HS 780110 Refined lead
Quick Answer: Refined lead imported under HS 780110 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.50% ad valorem, and the US at 2.5% on the value of the lead content, with free entry for certain trade partners. This Harmonized System code specifically covers unwrought refined lead, meaning lead that has been purified and is in its basic, unworked form, typically ingots or blocks. Importers should be aware of the varying duty rates across major markets, which can significantly impact landed costs. For the US, the specific calculation based on lead content value is crucial. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of accurate classification and understanding preferential trade agreements for optimized customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7801100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7801100000 | 2.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7801100000 | 2.5% on the value of the lead content | 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 7801.10?
Imports of Refined lead 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 780110 cover?
This subheading covers refined lead, which is lead that has undergone a process of purification to remove impurities, achieving a minimum purity of 99.97% by weight. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes unwrought lead that meets these refined standards. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that only lead meeting stringent purity criteria, typically above 99.97%, is classified here, excluding less pure forms of lead.
What falls outside HS 780110?
The following products are excluded from HS 780110: lead in forms other than unwrought (e.g., powders, bars, rods, wire, plates, sheets, strip, foil, tubes, pipes, and hollow profiles), as well as lead alloys. Unwrought lead that does not meet the minimum purity requirement of 99.97% is also excluded and would typically be classified under HS 780199. For instance, lead alloys used in batteries or solders, even if unwrought, are classified elsewhere, often under HS 780199 or Chapter 85 for battery components.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 780110?
A common error is misclassifying lead alloys or impure lead as refined lead under HS 780110. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System mandates classification based on the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may mistakenly classify lead with a purity below 99.97% in this subheading, or incorrectly classify lead in fabricated forms such as ingots or blocks that are not considered "unwrought" according to the specific definitions within Chapter 78.
How should importers classify products under HS 780110?
The correct procedure for classifying unwrought lead under HS 780110 involves verifying the purity of the material. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a certificate of analysis or assay report from the supplier that explicitly states the lead purity, confirming it meets or exceeds the 99.97% threshold. Cross-referencing this documentation with the official definitions in the relevant country's tariff schedule, 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 780110?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of refined lead ingots, declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 780110. The calculation is 0% × $25,000 USD = $0.00 USD. Many countries, including the United States, have eliminated tariffs on refined lead to promote trade and industrial use.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 780110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 780110, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific origin declaration is typically required, depending on the agreement and the exporting country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for refined lead (HS 780110) into the United States?
Under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS), refined lead, unwrought, falling under HS code 780110, generally faces a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0.00%. However, it's crucial to consult the latest USITC tariff schedule for any potential changes or specific product exclusions. Some preferential trade agreements may also offer duty-free entry for originating goods. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), lead originating from Australia may be eligible for duty-free treatment.
How is the duty calculated for refined lead if a duty rate applies?
The duty calculation for refined lead (HS 780110) depends on the specific duty rate applied. If the rate is a simple ad valorem percentage (e.g., 2.50%), the duty is calculated as: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. For instance, if 10 metric tons of refined lead valued at $25,000 are imported and subject to a 2.50% ad valorem duty, the duty would be $25,000 × 0.025 = $625. Some duties might be specified per unit of weight or content, requiring careful examination of the tariff provision. Always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise basis of duty assessment.
What documentation is typically required for importing refined lead (HS 780110) into the EU?
When importing refined lead (HS 780110) into the European Union, importers and customs brokers must present a valid import declaration. This typically includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement (e.g., Generalized Scheme of Preferences - GSP, or specific Free Trade Agreements), an Origin Certificate or proof of preferential origin may be required to claim reduced or zero duty rates under the EU's TARIC system. Compliance with any specific product safety or environmental regulations may also necessitate additional documentation.
Can you explain the preferential duty rates for HS 780110 under various trade agreements?
HS code 780110, refined lead, benefits from various preferential duty rates under different trade agreements. For example, the UK Trade Tariff lists specific preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the UK has trade agreements. These can range from Free (often indicated by codes like 'A*' for Australia, 'AU' for Australia, 'E' for EFTA, 'IL' for Israel, 'MA' for Morocco, 'SG' for Singapore, etc., depending on the specific agreement and its implementation) to reduced percentages. Importers must ensure they have valid proof of origin to claim these preferential rates. For instance, lead originating from a country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country might be admitted duty-free, saving significant costs compared to the standard MFN rate.
What are the classification criteria for 'refined lead' under HS 780110?
HS code 780110 covers 'Refined lead, unwrought'. Refined lead is lead that has undergone a refining process to remove impurities, typically achieving a purity of 99.9% or higher. 'Unwrought' means the lead is in its primary, unworked state, such as ingots, pigs, or blocks, not yet formed into semi-finished products like sheets or pipes. Classification hinges on both the purity level and the physical form. If lead is alloyed with other metals, it would likely be classified under a different HS code (e.g., 7801.99 for other lead alloys). Always verify the purity and form against the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System and national tariff rulings.