Nickel Silver Musical Instrument Scrap

Scrap from nickel silver (Cu-Ni-Zn) trumpet valves and saxophone keys, copper ~65%, Ni 18%, Zn 17%. <94% Cu qualifies as 'other' copper alloy scrap under HTS 7404.00.30.90 despite nickel content <5% threshold. Recycled for instrument alloys.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+25.0%25%
🇲🇽MexicoFree—Free
🇨🇦CanadaFree—Free
🇩🇪GermanyFree—Free
🇯🇵JapanFree—Free

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

7404.00Same rate: 25%

If reclassified as bronze composition

Some instrument alloys meet tin-bronze criteria despite Ni presence.

9209.92.80.00Lower: 22.1% vs 25%

If parts still functional in instruments

Valves/keys as musical instrument parts, not scrap, until disassembled.

7503.00.00.00Same rate: 25%

If nickel predominates

High-Ni alloys shift to nickel waste/scrap chapter if Cu secondary.

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Import Tips & Compliance

• Confirm Ni <5% per note (c) to stay out of nickel silver dedicated category; provide spectro analysis

• Polish/solder residues common; acid wash and rinse to meet cleanliness standards

• Avoid mixing with true nickel silvers (>5% Ni) to prevent reclassification batches