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76
Tariff Chapter 76
Aluminium bars, rods and profiles
What does heading 7604 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 7604 covers aluminium bars, rods and profiles. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. It is widely used in construction, transport, aerospace, packaging and electronics. Aluminium alloys (e.g. 6000, 7000 series) combine lightness with high strength. Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Heading 7604 is part of Chapter 76 (base metals and metal products) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 7604 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 7604 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 7604
Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Aluminium and aluminium products are subject to the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) - from 2026, importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to CO2 emissions associated with aluminium production. Import may be subject to anti-dumping duties on aluminium products from certain countries. Import of aluminium bars, rods and profiles is subject to CBAM - reporting of CO2 emissions from aluminium production is required. Check whether anti-dumping duties apply to aluminium products from the given country. Documentation must include the aluminium alloy grade and chemical composition. Aluminium products for food contact must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. When importing goods under heading 7604 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 7604 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).
Classification of goods under heading 7604 - key considerations
Heading 7604 covers aluminium bars, rods and profiles. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. Distinction from 7603 (aluminium powders and flakes) and 7605 (aluminium wire) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Decisive factor: precise determination of base material, processing stage and end-use of the product.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU customs duty rates for aluminium bars, rods and profiles (heading 7604)?
EU customs duty rates for aluminium bars, rods and profiles under heading 7604 range from 0% to 7.5% depending on the CN subheading. Aluminium alloy profiles (6000, 7000 series) used in construction and transport may attract rates up to 7.5%. From 2026, aluminium products are subject to CBAM - importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to CO2 emissions from production. Preferential rates may apply for countries with EU trade agreements. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and certificates are required when importing aluminium profiles into the EU?
Aluminium profiles for construction require CE marking per EN 15088 or EN 1090 (for structural elements) and a Declaration of Performance (DoP). A material certificate confirming the aluminium alloy and temper condition is required. CBAM registration from 2026 is mandatory. Profiles must comply with dimensional standards EN 755 (extruded bars) or EN 12020 (precision profiles). A certificate of origin (EUR.1) is needed for preferential tariff rates. This applies to goods classified under heading 7604 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing aluminium profiles from third countries?
CBAM costs from 2026 can significantly affect the economics of aluminium imports - CO2 emissions from primary aluminium production are high. Construction profiles absolutely require CE certification and EN 1090 compliance. Surface finish quality (anodizing, powder coating) should be verified. The aluminium alloy must match the order specification - 6000 and 7000 series have different properties. Transport requires protection against scratches and deformation. Consider sourcing from countries with lower carbon footprints to reduce CBAM costs. This applies to goods classified under heading 7604 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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