HS 845420 Ingot moulds and ladles

Quick Answer: Ingot moulds and ladles imported under HS 845420 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This classification covers molds specifically designed for casting ingots of metals, as well as ladles used for transporting molten metal. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major trading blocs. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance. Exporters should consult specific tariff schedules for precise duty applications in their target markets.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8454200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8454200000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
84542000 Free — —
8454200060 — — ["No.","kg"]
8454200010 — — ["No.","kg"]
8454200080 — — ["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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

Trade Volume 2023

US$13.2M
ImportsExports

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 845420 cover?

This subheading covers ingot moulds and ladles, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Ingot moulds are typically used for casting metals into ingots, and ladles are vessels used for transferring molten metal. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these items are specifically designed for the pouring and solidification of molten metals in industrial processes, distinguishing them from general containers.

What falls outside HS 845420?

The following products are excluded from HS 845420: general-purpose containers not specifically designed for molten metal, such as buckets or simple molds for non-metallic materials. Items like crucibles, which are primarily for melting rather than holding and pouring molten metal, or molds for casting finished products rather than ingots, would be classified elsewhere. For instance, molds for plastic injection molding fall under different headings within Chapter 84.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 845420?

A common error is misclassifying general industrial molds or containers that are not specifically designed for handling molten metal. For example, molds for concrete or plastic products are not ingot moulds. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify specialized pouring devices that are integral parts of larger machinery rather than standalone ingot moulds or ladles.

How should importers classify products under HS 845420?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 845420 involves a detailed examination of the product's design, function, and materials. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the item is indeed an ingot mould or a ladle intended for molten metal. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845420?

A shipment of 10 cast iron ingot moulds, each weighing 50 kg (total 500 kg) and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845420?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible ingot moulds and ladles originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is typically required. Other agreements might offer reduced rates for specific countries, but USMCA is a prominent example for North American trade.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 845430 HS 848020 HS 848010 HS 848050 HS 848060 HS 848041

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the primary import duty rates for HS code 845420 (Ingot moulds and ladles)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 845420 in the United States is 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may have a 0.00% duty rate. Importers should always verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the relevant trade agreement schedules for definitive rates. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also provide detailed duty rate information for these products, which can differ significantly.

What specific criteria define 'ingot moulds and ladles' under HS code 845420?

HS code 845420 covers moulds specifically designed for the casting of ingots (semi-finished metal products) and ladles used for transporting molten metal. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes, these items are typically made of materials resistant to high temperatures, such as cast iron, steel, or refractory materials. The key classification criterion is their specialized function in the metal casting process. Simple containers or general-purpose moulds not intended for ingot casting would be classified elsewhere.

Are there specific documentation requirements for importing ingot moulds and ladles under HS 845420?

While standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are always required, importers of ingot moulds and ladles (HS 845420) may need to provide additional documentation to support preferential duty claims or to demonstrate compliance with specific regulations. This could include a Certificate of Origin to prove the goods' country of origin for trade agreement purposes. For certain specialized moulds or ladles, manufacturers' specifications or technical data sheets might be requested by customs authorities to verify the classification and intended use.

How is the import duty for HS 845420 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The import duty for HS code 845420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 1.70% and you import ingot moulds with a customs value of $10,000, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.0170 (1.70% duty rate) = $170.00 in import duty. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to ensure the customs value is accurately determined, including all elements of value as per customs regulations.

Which common trade agreements might offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS 845420?

Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS 845420. In the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) generally provides for duty-free treatment (0.00%) for eligible goods originating from these countries. Other agreements, such as those with Australia or Singapore, may also offer reduced rates. For imports into the EU, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with partner countries could result in lower duties. Similarly, the UK has numerous FTAs post-Brexit that could affect import duties. Importers must confirm the rules of origin for each agreement to qualify for preferential treatment.