HS 988074 Classified in Chapter 74

HS code 988074 is a special statistical code and does not have its own inherent duty rate. The actual duty rate depends on the specific classification of the goods within Chapter 74 of the Harmonized System (HS), which covers Copper and articles thereof. For example, unwrought copper (HS 7401) might have a different duty rate than copper wire (HS 7408). To determine the precise duty rate, you must first identify the correct 6-digit HS code for your specific product. Then, consult the tariff schedule of the importing country. In the US, the US International Trade Commission (USITC) provides duty rates. For the EU, the TARIC database is the official source. For the UK, the UK Trade Tariff is used. Preferential rates are available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other trade preference programs, which require proof of origin and adherence to specific rules.

Chapter 74 of the HS covers a wide range of copper and its articles. Key classification criteria include the form of the copper (e.g., unwrought, powders, bars, rods, profiles, wire, plates, sheets, foil, tubes, pipes, fittings), the alloy composition (e.g., copper-zinc alloys (brass), copper-tin alloys (bronze), copper-nickel alloys), and the degree of processing or finishing. For instance, HS 7403 covers refined copper and copper alloys in unwrought forms, while HS 7408 specifically covers copper wire. The presence of other metals or non-metals, and their percentage by weight, is crucial for distinguishing between pure copper and various copper alloys.

Standard import documentation for goods classified under Chapter 74 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the specific product and the importing country's regulations, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates under an FTA), import licenses, safety data sheets (SDS) for certain copper compounds, or specific quality certifications. For example, importing copper pipes might require documentation confirming they meet specific plumbing standards.

Import duty calculation depends on the specific HS code assigned to the copper product and the duty rate applied by the importing country. Duties can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value), specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For example, let's assume a shipment of copper wire (a hypothetical HS code within Chapter 74) has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and is subject to a 2.5% ad valorem duty rate. The import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.025 (Duty Rate) = $250 USD. If there were also a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram and the shipment weighed 500 kg, an additional specific duty of 500 kg × $0.10/kg = $50 USD would apply, for a total duty of $300 USD. Always verify the exact duty rate and calculation method with the official tariff schedule.

The import duties for copper and articles thereof (Chapter 74) can be significantly impacted by various trade agreements. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like the UK (Trade and Cooperation Agreement), Switzerland, or various Mediterranean and African nations can reduce or eliminate duties. The UK benefits from its own set of FTAs post-Brexit. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries and ensure their goods meet the rules of origin requirements to claim preferential tariff treatment.