HS 811221 Chromium
Quick Answer: Chromium imported under HS 811221 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 0.00% or 3.00% ad valorem, and the US at 3% ad valorem or free for qualifying trade agreements. This Harmonized System code specifically covers unwrought chromium and chromium articles, including powders. Importers should note the varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates across major markets. For the US, specific free trade agreements can eliminate duties, while the EU's rate depends on the specific form and presentation of the chromium. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of verifying the precise tariff line and applicable preferential rates for each import.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8112210000 | — | — | — |
| 8112211000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8112219000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8112211000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8112210000 | — | — | — |
| 8112219000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8112210000 | 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 8112.21?
Imports of Chromium 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 811221 cover?
This subheading covers unwrought chromium, chromium powders, and articles of chromium, specifically excluding alloys. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification pertains to pure chromium in its primary forms. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category is for elemental chromium not yet incorporated into alloys or further manufactured goods, ensuring a precise distinction for trade purposes.
What falls outside HS 811221?
The following products are excluded from HS 811221: chromium alloys, such as ferrochromium (typically classified under heading 7202), chromium plating waste and scrap (often under heading 7204), and articles of chromium that are further manufactured, like tools or machine parts. For instance, chromium-plated screws or bolts would be classified based on their primary material or function, not as unwrought chromium, and are therefore not covered by this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 811221?
A common error is the misclassification of chromium alloys as unwrought chromium. 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 incorrectly classify ferrochromium, which contains significant amounts of iron, under HS 811221 instead of its correct heading for ferro-alloys, leading to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 811221?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 811221 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is pure chromium, unwrought, or in powder form, and not an alloy or a finished article. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 811221?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of unwrought chromium 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) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.05 = $750.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which provides specific duty rates for various classifications.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 811221?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 811221, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 811221 (Chromium)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 811221 (Chromium) is typically 3.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available for certain trading partners. For example, under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), the rate is often Free. Importers should always verify the specific preferential rate applicable to their country of origin. For example, under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the MFN rate is 3.00%, but rates can be lower or Free for countries with trade agreements.
How is the import duty for HS 811221 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 811221 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported chromium. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.00% and the declared customs value of a shipment of chromium is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.03 (duty rate) = $300. It is crucial to ensure accurate valuation as it directly impacts the duty amount. Some specific forms of chromium might have different calculation methods or additional duties, so always consult the latest tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing chromium under HS code 811221?
When importing chromium under HS code 811221, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, value, and description of the chromium; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and specific trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. Importers should also be aware of any specific import licenses or permits that might be required by regulatory agencies, such as those related to environmental or safety standards, although for basic chromium, these are less common than for more complex alloys or finished goods.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for chromium (HS 811221) into the United States?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry, for chromium (HS 811221) into the United States. Key agreements include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which typically offers a 0.00% duty rate for goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Other agreements, such as those with Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), may also provide reduced or Free rates. Importers must ensure that the chromium meets the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement to qualify for these preferential rates. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule provides a detailed breakdown of these rates by country.
Are there specific classification criteria or exclusions for HS code 811221 (Chromium)?
HS code 811221 specifically covers 'Chromium and articles thereof, including waste and scrap,' but it primarily refers to unwrought chromium and chromium powders. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) clarify that this heading is for chromium in its metallic form, whether crude, semi-manufactured, or in powder form. It excludes chromium alloys (which fall under different headings, e.g., 7200s for ferro-alloys or 7600s for aluminum alloys), compounds of chromium (which are classified in Chapter 28), and articles made from chromium (which are classified according to the material and function of the article, e.g., tools, machinery parts). Therefore, importers must ensure their product is pure or essentially pure chromium and not an alloy or compound to correctly use this code.