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Complete Guide to HS Codes for Copper & Aluminum Import

Master harmonized tariff codes, customs classifications, and duty rates for importing copper and aluminum products. Essential reference for international metal traders, importers, and customs brokers.

Updated December 2024
15 min read
Customs Certified

What are HS Codes and Why They Matter

Harmonized System (HS) codes are internationally standardized 6-10 digit numbers used to classify traded products for customs clearance, tariff calculation, and trade statistics. Every product crossing international borders requires an accurate HS code.

For copper and aluminum importers, using correct HS codes is critical for: calculating import duties, avoiding customs delays, ensuring regulatory compliance, and accessing preferential trade agreements.

Copper Product HS Codes (Chapter 74)

7403.11 - Copper Cathodes & Sections of Cathodes

Refined Copper 99.99% Purity

Description: Refined copper cathodes with minimum 99.99% copper content. Primary form for smelting and refining.

Typical Duty Rate
0% - 3% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Wire manufacturing, electrical applications

7408.11 - Copper Wire (Refined, No Alloy)

Wire Products High Conductivity

Description: Refined copper wire with maximum cross-sectional dimension exceeding 6mm. Used in electrical and construction industries.

Typical Duty Rate
3% - 5% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Power cables, transformers, motors

7409.11 - Copper Sheets & Plates (Refined)

Flat Products Thickness >0.15mm

Description: Copper plates, sheets and strip of refined copper with thickness exceeding 0.15mm. Rolled but not coiled.

Typical Duty Rate
2% - 4% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Roofing, architecture, electronics

7411.10 - Copper Tubes & Pipes (Refined)

Hollow Products HVAC/Plumbing

Description: Copper tubes and pipes of refined copper used in HVAC, plumbing, and refrigeration systems.

Typical Duty Rate
1% - 3% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Air conditioning, water supply, gas lines

7404.00 - Copper Waste & Scrap

Recycling Secondary Material

Description: Copper waste, scrap, and off-cuts for recycling and secondary copper production.

Typical Duty Rate
0% - 1% (often duty-free)
Common Applications
Recycling, secondary smelting

Aluminum Product HS Codes (Chapter 76)

7601.10 - Aluminum Unwrought (Not Alloyed)

Primary Aluminum 99%+ Purity

Description: Unwrought aluminum (not alloyed) including ingots, billets, and other primary forms with 99% minimum aluminum content.

Typical Duty Rate
2% - 5% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Further processing, alloy production

7601.20 - Aluminum Alloys (Unwrought)

Alloyed 1000-7000 Series

Description: Aluminum alloy ingots including 2000 series (copper), 3000 series (manganese), 5000 series (magnesium), 6000 series (magnesium-silicon), and 7000 series (zinc).

Typical Duty Rate
3% - 6% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Aerospace, automotive, construction

7606.11 - Aluminum Sheets (Rectangular, Not Alloyed)

Flat Products Thickness >0.2mm

Description: Rectangular aluminum plates, sheets, and strip (not alloyed) with thickness exceeding 0.2mm.

Typical Duty Rate
2.5% - 5.5% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Building panels, packaging, signage

7607.11 - Aluminum Foil (Not Backed, Rolled but not Further Worked)

Thin Products Thickness ≤0.2mm

Description: Aluminum foil with thickness not exceeding 0.2mm, not backed, rolled but not further worked.

Typical Duty Rate
3% - 7% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Food packaging, insulation, electronics

7604.10 - Aluminum Bars, Rods & Profiles (Not Alloyed)

Extruded Structural

Description: Aluminum bars, rods, and profiles (not alloyed) used for structural and mechanical applications.

Typical Duty Rate
2% - 4% (varies by country)
Common Applications
Window frames, machinery, structures

7602.00 - Aluminum Waste & Scrap

Recycling Secondary Material

Description: Aluminum waste and scrap including turnings, shavings, used beverage cans (UBC), and production scrap for recycling.

Typical Duty Rate
0% - 2% (often duty-free)
Common Applications
Recycling, secondary aluminum production

Best Practices for Using HS Codes

Verify Before Shipping

Always verify HS codes with your customs broker or freight forwarder before shipment to avoid clearance delays.

Check Country-Specific Codes

While the first 6 digits are international, countries may add digits. Check the destination country's specific requirements.

Document Product Specifications

Keep detailed product specs, test certificates, and material composition documents to support your HS code classification.

Stay Updated on Changes

HS codes are updated every 5 years. Subscribe to customs notifications to stay informed of classification changes.

Common HS Code Mistakes to Avoid

Confusing Alloy vs. Non-Alloy Classifications

Pure copper (7403) and copper alloys (7407) have different codes. Verify material composition before classifying.

Using Manufacturing Process Instead of Product Type

HS codes classify by product form (wire, sheet, tube), not by how it's made (cast, rolled, extruded).

Ignoring Dimensions and Thickness

Thickness determines classification (foil vs. sheet). Measure accurately and apply correct codes based on dimensions.

Applying Old or Outdated Codes

HS nomenclature updates every 5 years. Always verify you're using the current edition of HS codes.

Import Duty Calculation Example

Example: Importing Copper Cathodes to USA

Product
Copper Cathodes (99.99% purity)
HS Code
7403.11.0000
Customs Value (CIF)
$100,000
Duty Rate
1% (MFN rate)
Total Import Duty
$1,000

Important Note

Actual duty rates vary by country, trade agreements, and origin. Some countries may have preferential rates or duty-free access under FTAs. Always consult with customs authorities or licensed customs brokers for accurate calculations.

Ready to Import with Confidence?

Understanding HS codes is essential for successful metal imports. At ZeVo Metals, we provide complete documentation support including proper HS code classification, customs paperwork, and compliance guidance for all our shipments.