HS Code for Copper alloy plate

The classification of copper alloy plates under HS code 7409.90 is strictly governed by the chemical composition of the material and its specific physical dimensions as defined in the Harmonized System. According to the legal notes of Chapter 74, plates, sheets, and strip are defined as flat-surfaced products, whether in coils or not, which have a solid rectangular cross-section. To be classified under heading 7409, the thickness of the product must exceed 0.15mm. If the thickness is 0.15mm or less, the product is instead classified as copper foil under heading 7410. The specific subheading 7409.90 is a residual category for "other" copper alloys. This means it excludes the most common copper alloys that have their own dedicated subheadings, such as copper-zinc base alloys (brass), copper-tin base alloys (bronze), copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel), or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel-silver). Consequently, 7409.90 is the appropriate classification for plates made from specialized alloys like aluminum bronze, beryllium copper, or silicon bronze, provided they do not meet the technical definition of bronze. These plates are typically manufactured through a process of hot-rolling followed by cold-rolling to achieve precise thickness and mechanical properties. They are widely utilized in industrial sectors that require high corrosion resistance or specific thermal and electrical properties that standard brass or pure copper cannot provide.

Products Included

• Aluminum bronze plates
• Beryllium copper sheets
• Silicon bronze plates (non-tin)
• Copper-chromium alloy strip
• Manganese copper plates

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with 7409.11 or 7409.19, which are reserved exclusively for refined copper. If the alloy contains significant zinc, it must be classified under 7409.21 (brass). Another common error is failing to check the thickness; if the material is 0.15mm or thinner, it must be moved to heading 7410.00 as copper foil.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Copper alloy plate?

The HS code for copper alloy plates (other than brass, bronze, or cupro-nickel) with a thickness exceeding 0.15mm is 7409.90.

What is the difference between a plate and a foil in HS classification?

In Chapter 74, any flat-rolled product with a thickness of 0.15mm or less is classified as foil (7410), while anything thicker is classified as a plate, sheet, or strip (7409).