7407.21 - Of copper-zinc base alloys (brass):

This HTS category, 7407.21, specifically classifies bars, rods, and profiles made from copper-zinc base alloys, commonly known as brass. These items are characterized by their specific alloy composition, where zinc is the principal alloying element with copper. Products within this classification will be primarily composed of brass and will take the form of solid cross-sections that are elongated, such as round, square, hexagonal, or rectangular bars and rods, or more complex extruded or rolled shapes that constitute profiles.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 7407.29, which covers bars, rods, and profiles of other copper alloys not falling under the brass designation. The defining criterion for classification under 7407.21 is the presence of a copper-zinc base alloy. This means any copper alloy where zinc is the predominant alloying metal, as opposed to alloys with other elements like tin, aluminum, or nickel as the principal alloying agent, would be classified here.

Within this classification, further subdivisions exist to delineate between bars and rods, and profiles. Bars and rods are typically simple, solid cross-sectional shapes produced by processes like extrusion, drawing, or rolling. Profiles, on the other hand, refer to more complex shapes formed by extrusion or rolling, designed for specific structural or functional purposes beyond that of a simple bar or rod. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate customs declarations.