7409.40.00.00 - Of copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper- nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel silver)

This HTS category, 7409.40.00.00, specifically classifies plates, sheets, and strip of copper that are thicker than 0.15 mm and are manufactured from copper-nickel base alloys, commonly known as cupro-nickel, or from copper-nickel-zinc base alloys, also referred to as nickel silver. These materials are valued for their corrosion resistance and aesthetic qualities, finding applications in various industries including marine, coinage, and decorative elements. The key defining characteristic for this classification is the specific alloy composition, necessitating analysis of the base metals present.

This classification is distinct from its siblings primarily by its defined alloy composition. For instance, it differentiates from Category 7409.10 which covers refined copper, and from categories covering copper-zinc base alloys (brass) and copper-tin base alloys (bronze). It also differs from "Other copper alloys" (7409.90) by specifically naming cupro-nickel and nickel silver, requiring importers and exporters to precisely identify the elemental makeup of the copper alloy.

As a leaf node, HTS 7409.40.00.00 does not have further subdivisions. Therefore, classification within this code relies on confirming that the imported or exported copper product meets the specified thickness requirement (exceeding 0.15 mm) and is composed of either a copper-nickel base alloy or a copper-nickel-zinc base alloy. Documentation, such as mill certificates or laboratory analyses, may be required to substantiate the alloy composition for customs purposes.