HS 988081 Classified in Chapter 81
Quick Answer: Products classified under HS code 988081 enter the UK with no stated tariff rate and the EU with no stated tariff rate. This code is a placeholder, indicating that the actual classification falls within Chapter 81 of the Harmonized System. Chapter 81 covers base metals and articles of base metal, specifically focusing on less common metals such as magnesium, beryllium, cadmium, titanium, zirconium, and their alloys, as well as articles made from these materials. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific subheadings within Chapter 81 for the precise classification and applicable duty rates in their respective jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, while this general code is listed, the granular detail for duty assessment resides in the subsequent, more specific HS codes.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880810000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880810000 | — | — | — |
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 988081 cover?
This subheading covers products classified within Chapter 81 of the Harmonized System (HS) nomenclature, which pertains to "Other base metals; cermets; articles thereof." This broad category includes metals like magnesium, beryllium, chromium, manganese, cobalt, titanium, zirconium, and their alloys, as well as articles manufactured from these base metals and cermets. The World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Explanatory Notes provide detailed descriptions for each metal and its alloys, guiding classification based on material composition and form.
What falls outside HS 988081?
The following products are excluded from HS 988081: precious metals and their alloys (Chapter 71), base metals clad with precious metals (Chapter 71), and articles of base metal that are specifically classified elsewhere in the HS, such as tools (Chapter 82) or machinery (Chapter 84-85). For instance, titanium screws used in machinery would likely be classified under a machinery heading rather than Chapter 81, and titanium jewelry would fall under Chapter 71.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 988081?
A common error is misinterpreting the scope of "articles thereof" within Chapter 81. Importers may incorrectly classify finished goods made from these base metals under HS 988081 when they should be classified according to their specific function or use under other HS chapters, following General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System. For example, a finished titanium medical implant would be classified based on its medical device function, not solely on its titanium content.
How should importers classify products under HS 988081?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 988081 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition, referencing the specific notes for Chapter 81 and the WCO HS Explanatory Notes. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the product is one of the base metals listed, an alloy thereof, or an article primarily composed of these metals. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC system is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 988081?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of pure titanium powder, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule under the relevant subheading for titanium powder.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 988081?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 988081, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating articles of titanium may be eligible for duty-free treatment. The top origin countries benefiting from such preferences for this category would typically include Canada and Mexico. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is generally required, depending on the specific product and value.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical duty rates for HS code 988081, which falls under Chapter 81?
HS code 988081 is a special code used in some jurisdictions, notably the United States, to indicate items classified within Chapter 81 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Chapter 81 covers 'Other Base Metals and Articles Thereof; Wares Thereof.' The specific duty rates for products classified under this chapter vary significantly depending on the specific base metal (e.g., titanium, magnesium, zirconium, tungsten, molybdenum, etc.) and the form of the article (e.g., unwrought, powder, bars, rods, plates, wire, waste, scrap). For instance, unwrought titanium may have a different duty rate than titanium waste and scrap. Importers must consult the HTSUS, specifically Chapter 81, for the exact duty rate applicable to their specific product. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) HTSUS Online provides the definitive rates. For example, certain unwrought titanium might be subject to a 0% MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rate, while other forms could have higher rates or be subject to special trade remedies.
How is the duty for an item classified under HS 988081 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for items under HS 988081 depends on the specific classification within Chapter 81 and the applicable duty rate. 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 specific article of tungsten classified under a subheading within Chapter 81 has an MFN duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem and is also subject to a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram. If an importer brings in 100 kilograms of this tungsten article valued at $5,000, the duty calculation would be: Ad Valorem Duty = $5,000 × 2.5% = $125. Specific Duty = 100 kg × $0.10/kg = $10. Total Duty = $125 + $10 = $135. Importers must verify the exact duty calculation method and rates from the HTSUS.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 988081 (Chapter 81)?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of goods classified under Chapter 81 (indicated by codes like 988081) may need specific documentation to substantiate the classification and origin. This could include: a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing the metal's composition and purity, mill certificates for processed metals, or declarations of origin. For certain base metals or their articles, specific country of origin certifications might be crucial, especially if preferential trade agreements or trade remedies (like antidumping or countervailing duties) apply. Customs brokers should ensure all relevant technical specifications and origin documents are readily available to present to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon request.
Are there preferential duty rates available for goods classified under HS 988081 through trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for goods classified under Chapter 81 (and thus potentially indicated by codes like 988081) depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada, Mexico (USMCA), Australia, and others. If the base metal article originates from a country with an FTA with the importing country, it might qualify for reduced or eliminated duties. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement. Importers and customs brokers must carefully review the terms of each trade agreement and ensure compliance with all requirements to benefit from these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing between different subheadings within Chapter 81 for HS code 988081?
The classification within Chapter 81, often referenced by codes like 988081 in specific contexts, hinges on several key criteria. These primarily include: 1. The specific base metal: Chapter 81 covers a defined list of 'other base metals' such as titanium, zirconium, antimony, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, germanium, hafnium, indium, magnesium, manganese, niobium, tantalum, selenium, tellurium, thallium, thorium, uranium, vanadium, and tungsten, as well as their alloys. 2. The form of the article: Classification differs significantly based on whether the metal is unwrought (e.g., ingots, pigs, powders), in semi-finished forms (e.g., bars, rods, profiles, wire, plates, sheets, strip, foil), or in finished articles. 3. Alloy composition: For alloys, the percentage of the base metal and other constituent metals is critical. 4. Waste and scrap: Specific subheadings often exist for waste and scrap of these base metals, which may have different duty rates and regulations. Importers must precisely identify the base metal, its form, and composition to ensure correct classification under the HTSUS, which is essential for accurate duty assessment and compliance.