HS 780600 Containers with an anti-radiation lead covering, for the transport or storage of radioactive materials
Quick Answer: Containers with an anti-radiation lead covering, for the transport or storage of radioactive materials, imported under HS 780600 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00% or 5.00% depending on specific provisions, and the US at 2%, Free, or 45% depending on origin and trade agreements. This classification specifically applies to specialized containers designed to safely handle and transport or store radioactive substances, featuring a lead lining for radiation shielding. Importers should carefully verify the specific tariff line and any applicable preferential duty rates based on the country of origin. According to CustomTariffs data, the EU's 5.00% rate may apply to certain imports, while the US offers duty-free entry for goods from designated free trade agreement partners.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7806008000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7806001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7806001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7806008000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7806000500 | 2% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 7806000300 | 1.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 7806008000 | 3% | Free (18 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 7806.00?
Imports of Containers with an anti-radiation lead covering, for the transport or storage of radioactive materials 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 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 780600 cover?
This subheading covers containers specifically designed with an anti-radiation lead covering for the transport or storage of radioactive materials. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are specialized receptacles intended to shield personnel and the environment from radiation emitted by radioactive substances. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the defining characteristic is the lead shielding integrated into the container for radiation protection during transit or warehousing.
What falls outside HS 780600?
The following products are excluded from HS 780600: general-purpose lead containers not intended for radioactive materials, such as lead shielding for X-ray rooms or lead ingots for metallurgical purposes. Containers for non-radioactive hazardous materials, even if robustly constructed, are also classified elsewhere. For instance, standard industrial drums or intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for chemicals, or lead-lined boxes for sensitive electronic components, would not fall under this specific subheading and would be classified based on their primary function and material composition.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 780600?
A common error is misclassifying general lead products or containers that do not explicitly meet the criteria of being designed for the transport or storage of radioactive materials with anti-radiation lead covering. For example, lead sheeting or lead bricks used for general radiation shielding in construction or medical facilities, or lead-lined containers for non-radioactive substances, are often incorrectly entered under this code. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System, which prioritizes Section and Chapter Notes, is crucial to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 780600?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 780600 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and material composition. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the container is specifically manufactured with integrated lead shielding for the containment and protection against radiation from radioactive materials. Consulting the product's technical specifications, manufacturer's declarations, and cross-referencing with official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 780600?
A lead-lined Type B radioactive material transport container weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem (10% × $15,000). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. For example, if the container is a robust steel drum with a thick lead lining, its primary function as a shielded container for radioactive materials dictates its classification under 780600.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 780600?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 780600, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may benefit from a duty rate of Free. The top origin countries that realistically benefit from such agreements for this specific product category would likely be Canada and Mexico. To claim preference, a self-certified origin statement on the invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the specific provisions of the agreement and the value of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 780600, specifically for containers with anti-radiation lead covering for radioactive materials?
The import duty rates for HS code 780600 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the US tariff schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements can also apply. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff will provide specific rates for those regions, which may differ. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rate.
What specific criteria must be met for a container to be classified under HS code 780600?
To be classified under HS code 780600, the container must meet two primary criteria: 1) It must be made of lead, or at least have a significant anti-radiation lead covering. 2) Its primary purpose must be for the transport or storage of radioactive materials. This implies a specialized design intended to shield against radiation. General lead containers not designed for radioactive materials would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 780600?
When importing goods under HS code 780600, importers and customs brokers should be prepared for enhanced documentation requirements due to the nature of the goods. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Additionally, specific documentation related to the radioactive materials being transported or stored may be required, such as licenses or permits from relevant national nuclear regulatory bodies. Proof of the lead covering and its anti-radiation properties might also be requested. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
How are import duties calculated for HS code 780600, and can you provide an example?
Import duties for HS code 780600 are typically calculated based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination of both. For instance, if a country applies a 5.00% ad valorem duty rate and you import a lead container valued at $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 5.00% (duty rate) = $500. If there were also a specific duty, for example, $10 per unit, and you imported 2 units, the total duty would be $500 (ad valorem) + (2 units × $10/unit) = $520. Always confirm the specific calculation method and rates with the destination country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 780600, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements may offer preferential duty rates for HS code 780600. For example, agreements like the US Free Trade Agreements (e.g., with countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Chile (CL)) often list specific duty rates, sometimes as 'Free' or at a reduced percentage for goods originating from those partner countries. The provided sample rates indicate 'Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' which suggests that goods originating from these listed countries may enter duty-free under specific preferential trade agreements. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and provide the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, to the customs authorities.