HS Code 74.08 – Copper wire

HS code 7408 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Copper wire. HS heading 7408 specifically covers "Copper wire." This classification is crucial for international trade as it defines drawn or rolled products of solid, uniform cross-section throughout their length, which do not exceed 6 mm in any cross-sectional dimension. Copper wire is typically supplied in coils and is characterized by its exceptional electrical conductivity and ductility. The scope explicitly excludes insulated electrical conductors (which fall under Chapter 85) and products that, by their cross-sectional dimensions, would be considered bars or rods (7407). Key sub-categories often relate to the specific alloy (e.g., brass, bronze if copper predominates), the presence of a thin surface coating (like tinning or enamel, which does not constitute insulation for this heading), and the gauge or diameter of the wire. Accurate classification under 7408 is paramount for trade compliance, impacting customs duties, import/export regulations, and market analysis. Copper wire is a fundamental component across numerous industries, including electrical transmission, telecommunications, electronics, and manufacturing of various components. Historically, the development of electrical power and communication systems has been inextricably linked to the production and trade of copper wire. As a further processed form within Chapter 74, this heading signifies a move from semi-finished products to a more refined raw material ready for integration into complex systems.

Bare copper wire, enamelled copper wire (uninsulated for classification), tinned copper wire, magnet wire (uninsulated), winding wire for motors, electrical grounding wire (uninsulated), solid core copper wire, stranded copper wire (uninsulated), copper wire for electrical conductors, fine gauge copper wire, heavy gauge copper wire (up to 6mm), copper wire for telecommunications (uninsulated), copper wire for weaving, copper wire for jewelry (uninsulated), trolley wire (uninsulated), brazing wire (uncoated), copper wire for springs, copper wire for mesh, copper wire for fasteners, copper wire for musical instruments, copper wire for handicrafts, copper wire for lightning arrestors, copper wire for electrodes, copper wire for heating elements.

A frequent misclassification is confusing 7408 with insulated electrical conductors (8544). If the wire has an insulating sheath beyond a thin enamel coating (e.g., plastic or rubber), it falls under 8544. Another common error is classifying larger diameter copper rods (7407) as wire; 7408 has a specific maximum cross-sectional dimension (6mm). Products that have been further worked into finished articles, even if primarily wire, may fall under 7419 (other articles of copper). The key is the uninsulated nature and specific dimensional limits.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7408 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($4.5B, 14% of world exports), the United Arab Emirates (about $2.8B) and China ($2.1B). World exports came to about $32.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7408 in UN Comtrade data were Saudi Arabia ($2.3B, 7.0% of world imports), Morocco ($2.1B) and Italy ($1.9B). World imports came to about $31.9B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7408 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 74 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (74) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (08) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.