Harmonized System Codes • Schedule B • Harmonized Commodity Description

HS Code 73181450 - Iron or steel, self-tapping screws, w/shanks or threads 6 mm or more in diameter

Iron or steel self-tapping screws with shanks or threads 6 mm or more in diameter fall under HS Code 73181450. This HS code is used to classify and identify these specific types of screws for import and export purposes.

Self-tapping screws are designed to create threaded holes in materials such as metal or plastic without the need for pre-drilling. These screws have a sharp point and special thread design that allows them to cut into the material as they are driven in. They provide a secure and reliable connection, making them widely used in various industries.

The quantity unit for this HS code is kilograms (KG), which indicates that the trade and measurement of these screws are based on weight rather than a specific number of units.

The bound or most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate for products classified under HS Code 73181450 is 8.6%. The MFN principle states that whenever a country lowers a trade barrier or opens up a market, it must do so for the same goods or services from all its trading partners. This duty rate is applicable every time the product is imported or exported.

However, there are several special tariff preference programs that offer different duty rates for imports of these self-tapping screws. Some of the programs include:

• Free: This applies to imports from least-developed beneficiary developing countries eligible for the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) under that subheading. These imports receive duty-free treatment.
• Australia Special Rate: Automotive Products Trade Act (APTA) provides duty-free treatment for imports from Australia.
• Bahrain Special Rate: Imports from Bahrain receive duty-free treatment.
• NAFTA for Canada: Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), imports from Canada receive duty-free treatment.
• Chile Special Rate: Imports from Chile receive duty-free treatment.
• Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Imports from eligible African countries receive duty-free treatment under this program.
• Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI): Imports from eligible Caribbean countries receive duty-free treatment.
• Israel Special Rate: Imports from Israel receive duty-free treatment.
• Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA): Imports from eligible Andean countries receive duty-free treatment.
• Jordan Special Rate: Imports from Jordan receive duty-free treatment.
• NAFTA for Mexico: Under NAFTA, imports from Mexico receive duty-free treatment.
• Oman Special Rate: Imports from Oman receive duty-free treatment.
• Dominican Republic-Central American Special Rate (DR-CAFTA): Imports from eligible countries in the DR-CAFTA receive duty-free treatment.
• Peru Special Rate: Imports from Peru receive duty-free treatment.
• Singapore Special Rate: Imports from Singapore receive duty-free treatment.
• Morocco Special Rate: Imports from Morocco receive a duty rate of 3.8%.

These special tariff preference programs aim to promote trade and support economic development between countries. They provide businesses with opportunities to import goods at reduced or zero duty rates, which can contribute to cost savings and ultimately benefit consumers.

When importing self-tapping screws classified under HS Code 73181450 into the United States, it is essential to consider the specific duty rates and eligibility criteria under the various tariff preference programs. Understanding these programs can help importers make informed decisions and take advantage of trade benefits.

Similarly, when exporting these screws from the United States to other countries, it is crucial to be aware of the applicable duty rates and any preferential treatment offered by the destination country.

HS Code 73181450 plays a significant role in classifying and facilitating the trade of iron or steel self-tapping screws. Importers and exporters should familiarize themselves with the relevant regulations, duty rates, and tariff preference programs to ensure compliance and optimize their trade activities.