HS 988071 Classified in Chapter 71
Quick Answer: Products classified under HS code 988071, which falls within Chapter 71, enter the UK at an unspecified rate and the EU at an unspecified rate. This chapter generally covers natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metals clad with precious metal, and articles thereof; imitation jewelry; coin. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific tariff schedules for the destination country, as duty rates for these goods can vary significantly based on material composition, origin, and specific product details. According to CustomTariffs data, detailed rate information for this specific code across major jurisdictions is not readily available, necessitating direct verification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880710000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880710000 | — | — | — |
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 988071 cover?
This subheading covers articles that are classified within Chapter 71 of the Harmonized System (HS) nomenclature, which pertains to natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metals clad with precious metal, and articles thereof; imitation jewelry; coin. The World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on the scope of Chapter 71, encompassing a wide array of items from raw gemstones to finished jewelry and silverware, all subject to specific classification rules.
What falls outside HS 988071?
The following products are excluded from HS 988071, as they are classified under different headings within the Harmonized System. For instance, imitation jewelry that is not made of precious metal or clad with precious metal, but rather base metal or plastic, would typically fall under Chapter 7100. Similarly, articles of precious metal used for industrial purposes, such as platinum electrodes, are classified elsewhere, often in chapters related to base metals or machinery, depending on their specific function and composition.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 988071?
A common error is misinterpreting the definition of "precious metal" or "precious stone" as defined by the WCO HS. For example, mistaking a high-quality synthetic stone for a natural precious stone can lead to incorrect classification. Furthermore, failing to adhere 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 a frequent oversight, leading to misapplication of Chapter 71's specific subheadings.
How should importers classify products under HS 988071?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 988071 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition, material, and intended use, referencing the specific headings and subheadings within Chapter 71. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC database, to identify the most specific and appropriate classification. Verification of the material content, particularly regarding precious metals and stones, is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 988071?
A pair of 14-karat gold earrings weighing 15 grams and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 5.0% = $25.00). This calculation is performed according to the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for the specific subheading within Chapter 71.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 988071?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 988071, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid origin declaration, often a self-certified statement on the commercial invoice or a separate document, is required. The specific origin rules for jewelry and precious metal articles under USMCA must be meticulously followed.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 988071, and how can I find jurisdiction-specific rates?
HS code 988071 is a placeholder often used in specific customs systems (like the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, HTSUS) to denote items classified within Chapter 71 of the Harmonized System (HS). Chapter 71 covers natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metals clad with precious metal, and articles thereof; imitation jewelry; coin. Duty rates are highly variable and depend on the specific product within Chapter 71, the country of origin, and the importing country's tariff schedule. For example, under the US HTSUS, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for a specific item in Chapter 71 could range from 0% to over 10% ad valorem. To find the exact rate, consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country. For the US, this is the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule. For the EU, it's the TARIC database. For the UK, it's the UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under Chapter 71 (HS code 988071)?
Goods classified under Chapter 71 are broadly categorized by their composition and value. Key criteria include:
- Material Composition: Whether the item is made of natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones (cut or uncut), precious metals (gold, silver, platinum group metals), or base metals clad with precious metals.
- Value: For imitation jewelry and similar articles, value is often a determining factor.
- Processing: Whether stones are cut, polished, or set; whether metals are refined, alloyed, or worked.
- Origin: For certain items, the origin of pearls or stones can be significant.
Importers must meticulously identify the specific material, its form, and any treatments or manufacturing processes to ensure correct classification within the detailed subheadings of Chapter 71.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under Chapter 71 (HS code 988071)?
Importing goods under Chapter 71 often requires specific documentation beyond standard customs declarations. Common requirements include:
- Commercial Invoice: Detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the goods.
- Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package.
- Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: For proof of shipment.
- Certificate of Origin: To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements or to comply with origin marking rules.
- Gemstone/Precious Metal Certificates: For high-value items, certificates from recognized gemological institutes (e.g., GIA, AGS) or assay offices may be required to verify authenticity, quality, and carat weight.
- Import Licenses/Permits: Depending on the specific item and jurisdiction, specific permits might be necessary.
- Declaration of Value: Especially for items where value is a key classification factor or for customs valuation purposes.
How is the import duty calculated for an item classified under Chapter 71 (HS code 988071)? Provide a numerical example.
The calculation of import duty for goods under Chapter 71 depends on the specific HS code subheading and the duty rate applied by the importing country. Duties are typically calculated as either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the item's value) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity, e.g., per gram or per piece), or a combination thereof.
Example: Suppose a shipment of gold rings (classified under a specific subheading within Chapter 71) has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD. The importing country's tariff schedule specifies an MFN ad valorem duty rate of 5.5% for this item.
Calculation: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 5.5% Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 0.055 Duty Amount = $550 USD
In this case, the importer would owe $550 USD in duties. If the rate were a specific duty, such as $2 per gram, the calculation would be based on the net weight of the gold in the rings.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under Chapter 71 (HS code 988071), and how can importers verify eligibility?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under Chapter 71. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) the EU has with third countries, and the UK's FTAs post-Brexit. Eligibility for preferential treatment typically hinges on:
- Rules of Origin: The goods must meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in the trade agreement. This often involves determining the percentage of value added in the originating country or specific manufacturing processes performed there. For precious metals and stones, tracing the origin of the raw materials can be complex.
- Proof of Origin: A valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter, compliant with the agreement's requirements, must be provided to customs authorities in the importing country.
Importers and customs brokers should consult the text of the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations to understand the precise rules of origin and documentation requirements. Verifying the exporter's compliance and obtaining the correct documentation are crucial steps to successfully claim preferential rates.