HS 970690 Other
Quick Answer: Antiques imported under HS 970690 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This classification, "Other," is a residual category within Chapter 97 of the Harmonized System, which pertains to "Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques." It is specifically designated for antiques that do not fit into the more specific subheadings of HS 9706, such as paintings or sculptures. Importers should ensure that their goods meet the established criteria for antiquity in the destination country, typically requiring items to be at least 100 years old and imported in their original state. According to CustomTariffs data, these duty rates are consistently applied across major markets, simplifying trade for qualifying antique goods.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9706900010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900012 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900018 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900016 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9706900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900012 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900016 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9706900018 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 97069000 | Free | — | — |
| 9706900040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 9706900020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 9706900060 | — | — | ["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 970690 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" antiquities not specifically classified under preceding subheadings within Heading 9706, which pertains to antiquities more than 100 years old. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this residual category is for items that meet the age criterion but do not fit into more defined categories of antiquities, such as sculptures, pottery, or coins. For instance, in the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTUS), it captures items like ancient textiles or tools that are over a century old and possess historical or archaeological significance, provided they are not otherwise specified.
What falls outside HS 970690?
The following products are excluded from HS 970690: items less than 100 years old, even if they are considered antique or collectible. Furthermore, items that are specifically enumerated in other subheadings of Heading 9706, such as ancient works of art, archaeological finds, or ancient coins, are not classified here. For example, a 1920s automobile, while potentially valuable, would not be classified as an antiquity under 9706, and a 150-year-old manuscript detailing local history would likely fall under 9706 if not specifically covered elsewhere in the chapter, but a modern replica of an ancient artifact would be excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 970690?
A common error is misinterpreting the "100 years old" criterion, leading to the classification of modern or relatively recent items as antiquities. Another mistake involves failing to identify if an item might fit into a more specific subheading within Heading 9706, such as ancient pottery or manuscripts, thereby incorrectly assigning it to the "Other" category. This often occurs when the importer does not fully consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System or the specific national tariff interpretations, which provide guidance on the scope of each subheading and the application of General Interpretative Rule 1.
How should importers classify products under HS 970690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 970690 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm that the item is indeed an antiquity, meaning it is at least 100 years old. Second, meticulously review all preceding subheadings within Heading 9706 to ascertain if the item has a more specific classification. If it meets the age requirement and does not fit into any other subheading, then HS 970690 is appropriate. Importers and customs brokers should consult official tariff databases, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, and consider obtaining a binding ruling if there is any doubt, especially for items valued over $1,000.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 970690?
A 120-year-old Roman mosaic fragment weighing 5 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would typically attract a duty rate. For example, under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, antiquities over 100 years old are generally admitted duty-free. Therefore, the US duty would be $0.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which for this category is 0% ad valorem, resulting in a duty of 0% × $5,000 = $0.00. Specific national tariff schedules must always be consulted for definitive rates.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 970690?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 970690, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a "Free" duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can also offer preferential rates, often "Free," for goods from eligible developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing country and the origin of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for goods classified under HS code 970690?
HS code 970690, designated as 'Other' within Chapter 97 (Works of Art, Collectors' Pieces and Antiques), typically carries a duty rate of Free for most trading partners. For instance, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is Free. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff and the EU TARIC database also generally list a 0.00% duty rate for goods falling under this residual category, provided they meet the overarching criteria of Chapter 97 and are not specifically classified elsewhere. Always verify the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most current rates.
How is HS code 970690 defined, and what types of items fall under 'Other' antiques?
HS code 970690 is a residual category for antiques that do not fit into the more specific subheadings of Chapter 97 (e.g., paintings, sculptures, coins, stamps). To qualify as an antique under Chapter 97, items generally must be at least 100 years old and be of a character or rarity that makes them suitable for collection or museum purposes. The 'Other' category is for antique items that meet these age and suitability criteria but are not specifically enumerated in other antique headings. Examples might include antique furniture not covered by 9403, antique scientific instruments, or antique textiles that don't fit into other specific categories. Importers must be prepared to provide evidence of the item's age and authenticity.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 970690?
When importing antiques classified under HS code 970690, crucial documentation includes a detailed commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Critically, importers must provide proof of the item's age and authenticity. This can often be a certificate of age issued by a recognized expert, a dated appraisal, or historical documentation substantiating its antique status (generally 100 years or older). Depending on the importing country, specific declarations regarding cultural property or export licenses from the country of origin might also be necessary. Customs brokers should ensure all supporting documents are meticulously prepared to avoid delays or penalties.
Do trade agreements or preferential programs offer duty-free entry for items under HS code 970690?
Given that HS code 970690 often carries a Free duty rate under the standard MFN tariff, many preferential trade agreements do not offer additional duty reductions. However, it is always prudent to check the specific terms of any applicable free trade agreement (FTA) or preferential program. For example, if an antique classified under 970690 were subject to a nominal duty in a particular country, an FTA might reduce that duty to zero. The primary requirement for duty-free entry under this code is typically meeting the definition of an antique (at least 100 years old and of artistic or historical value) rather than relying solely on preferential rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 970690 if a duty were applicable, and can you provide an example?
While HS code 970690 is typically Free, let's illustrate duty calculation for a hypothetical scenario where a duty rate applies. Duty is usually calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the item's value) or a specific rate (per unit). For example, if an antique item classified under 970690 had a declared value of $5,000 and the applicable duty rate was 2% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as: $5,000 (Value) × 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $100 (Duty Amount). If the rate were specific, say $10 per piece, and you imported 5 pieces, the duty would be 5 pieces × $10/piece = $50. Always confirm the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and rate from the official tariff schedule of the importing country.