Analysis
HTS 8481.30.10 covers check (nonreturn) valves: of copper under heading 8481 (taps, cocks, valves and similar appliances, for pipes, boiler shells, tanks, vats or the…). US Customs collects import statistics for it under 2 ten-digit suffixes, reported in number of items and kilograms.
The general duty rate is 3% of the customs value, which is above most the rates in chapter 84 (76th percentile of 823 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $300 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
Rates on the nearby lines range from 3% to 5%. The costliest confusion would be with 8481.30.20 (check (nonreturn) valves: of iron or steel) at 5%, a difference of 2 points on the customs value.
The column 2 rate, for countries without normal trade relations, is 45%, 15.0 times the general rate.
For statistics it divides in two: 8481.30.10.10 for having a pressure rating under 850 kPa and 8481.30.10.90 for having a pressure rating of 850 kPa or over. Both pay the same duty; the suffix records which kind was imported.
Goods that qualify under GSP, the Australia FTA, the Automotive Products Trade Act, the Bahrain FTA, the Chile FTA, and 13 others can enter duty-free instead of paying 3%. It is also eligible under GSP, the developing-country programme, which Congress has to renew; check whether GSP is in force on the entry date.
Statistical suffixes
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 8481.30.20 | Check (nonreturn) valves: of iron or steel | 5% |
| 8481.30.90 | Check (nonreturn) valves: other | 3% |