HS 800120 Tin alloys
Quick Answer: Tin alloys imported under HS 800120 enter the UK and EU duty-free, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This HS code covers unwrought tin alloys, which are mixtures of tin with other metals, such as lead, copper, or antimony, in their primary, unshaped form. These alloys are typically used in soldering, plating, and as components in various manufacturing processes. Importers should verify specific alloy compositions, as certain additions might influence classification or eligibility for preferential trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, providing a clear overview for trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8001200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8001200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80012000 | Free | — | — |
| 8001200010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 8001200090 | — | — | ["kg","Pb kg"] |
| 8001200050 | — | — | ["kg","Pb kg"] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 800120 cover?
This subheading covers tin alloys, which are metallic mixtures where tin is the principal component. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these alloys are specifically defined as tin containing by weight 10% or more of other metals. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes common alloys like tin-lead solder, tin-antimony alloys, and tin-copper alloys, provided they meet the specified compositional threshold for tin.
What falls outside HS 800120?
The following products are excluded from HS 800120: unwrought tin (classified under 8001.10), tin powders and flakes (classified under 8001.30), and articles of tin, such as tin foil or tinware (classified under Chapter 80 or other relevant chapters based on the article's form and function). Also excluded are alloys where tin is not the principal component or where the alloy does not meet the 10% tin by weight criterion, as these would fall under different headings based on the predominant metal or their specific form.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 800120?
A common error is misclassifying alloys based solely on their common trade name without verifying the tin content percentage. For example, some solders might be referred to as "tin solder" but may contain less than 10% tin, thus not qualifying for 800120. Another mistake involves confusing unwrought tin alloys with finished articles made from tin alloys. 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.
How should importers classify products under HS 800120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 800120 involves obtaining a detailed chemical analysis or manufacturer's specification sheet that clearly states the composition of the alloy, specifically the percentage of tin by weight. Importers and customs brokers must then compare this composition against the definition provided in the WCO HS Nomenclature and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm that tin is the principal component and the alloy contains 10% or more of other metals.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 800120?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of tin-lead solder (containing 60% tin) 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, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.05 = $750.00), as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Note that specific alloys might have different rates or be subject to other duties.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 800120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 800120, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating tin alloys from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting specific requirements is typically required by US Customs and Border Protection. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for specific origin countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 800120 (Tin alloys) into the United States?
Under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS), unwrought tin alloys (HS 800120) generally enter the U.S. duty-free. For example, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. It is crucial to verify the specific tariff rate with the latest USITC data, as trade agreements or specific product formulations could influence the final duty assessment.
How is the import duty for HS code 800120 calculated if a duty were applicable?
While HS 800120 typically carries a 0.00% duty rate in many jurisdictions, if a duty were applicable, it would likely be calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (per unit of weight or volume). For instance, if a hypothetical duty rate of 2% ad valorem applied to a shipment of tin alloys valued at $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.02 (duty rate) = $200 (duty amount). Always confirm the applicable duty rate and calculation method with the relevant customs authority.
What documentation is typically required when importing unwrought tin alloys (HS 800120)?
When importing unwrought tin alloys (HS 800120), standard import documentation is usually required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin to claim preferential treatment under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country, specific chemical composition reports or assay certificates may also be requested by customs authorities to verify the alloy's properties and HS classification.
Are there preferential duty rates for HS code 800120 under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates can apply to HS code 800120 under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing nation may qualify for reduced or duty-free entry. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific FTA and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these benefits. It is essential to consult the customs authority of the importing country and the text of the relevant trade agreement for precise eligibility criteria and requirements.
What are the classification criteria for classifying unwrought tin alloys under HS code 800120?
HS code 800120 covers 'Unwrought tin alloys'. The primary classification criterion is that the tin must be in an unwrought state (e.g., ingots, blocks, or similar forms) and must be an alloy where tin is the principal element by weight. According to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO), alloys are metallic substances composed of two or more elements, of which at least one is a metal. For HS 800120, the alloy must contain tin as the predominant metal. If tin is not the principal element, or if the product is wrought (e.g., bars, rods, wire), it would be classified under a different HS code.