Navigating the New US Tariffs – Get Expert Support on Classification and Origin
New Tariffs Now in Effect – Are You Prepared?
As of 5 April 2025, a sweeping new US tariff regime came into force, placing immediate pressure on exporters globally.
UK-origin goods are subject to an additional baseline 10% import tariff on top of existing most-favoured nation US tariffs by good or commodity (in place since 5 April 2025) with some exceptions.
Automobile imports from the UK are subject to a 10% tariff (in place since 30 June 2025) for a per capita quota of 65,000 vehicles in 2025, and 100,000 vehicles each calendar year thereafter. Imports above the quota level will face tariffs at 27.5%. These tariffs are in place of the baseline tariffs.
Steel and aluminium products and derivatives thereof are subject to a 25% tariff (in place since 12 March 2025) instead of the baseline tariffs.
Semi-finished copper products and intensive derivatives thereof, like wiring or pipes, face 50% tariffs from 1 August 2025. The UK and the US are having further discussions on copper supply chains.
Pharmaceuticals, lumber, energy, semiconductors, electronic goods, and some critical mineral imports are not subject to additional tariffs for now.
From 29 August, the de minimis threshold for low-value goods entering the US has been removed. UK goods under $800 now face either applicable duties or a temporary flat rate of $80 per item for six months. After 6 months, all duty payments will be based on the value of the item.
Disclaimer: Information is correct as of 5 August 2025.
Impact on UK Exporters
Failing to correctly classify your goods or provide clear origin documentation can result in:
Higher costs due to misapplied tariffs
Delays or detentions at customs
Risk of penalties or backdated duties
With the US now applying country-specific tariffs, it’s essential that UK exporters take action to ensure goods are not only accurately classified but also supported by origin documentation.
How ChamberCustoms Can Support You
We’re already working with UK companies to assess the impact of these changes and respond effectively. Whether you need support with classification, origin, or supply chain decisions, our expert Customs Consultants can help.
Commodity Code Review
We’ll review your current classifications against the Harmonised System (HS), helping you avoid costly misclassification errors or overpayments.
Rules of Origin Support
We’ll assess your goods’ origin under preferential and non-preferential rules to help you evidence UK origin correctly and reduce your tariff exposure.
Strategic Advice on Supply Chains
For some, rethinking sourcing or processing (e.g. using US-origin steel or aluminium) could lower duty liability. But these options require careful evaluation — we’ll help you assess the commercial impact and available routes.
Real-World Insight: Supporting UK Traders
Our team recently worked with a UK manufacturer facing the new 25% tariffs on exports to the US. With over £10 million in annual US sales, they urgently needed to understand the impact and explore potential options to protect their margins.
Our Consultancy Provided:
A full review of their current tariff classifications
Analysis of possible reclassification options
Exploration of a potential binding tariff ruling
Advice on strategic steps related to product origin and supply chain design
We helped them understand their exposure, identify longer-term opportunities, and make informed commercial decisions.
Facing New Tariffs? We're Here to Help.
Whether you’re just starting to assess the impact or need expert help right away, we can support you. Let’s work together to ensure your business stays compliant, competitive, and ready for what’s next.
Get in touch today to speak with one of our Customs Executives.
Who we are
ChamberCustoms is wholly owned by the British Chamber of Commerce.
Our consultants are experienced in all aspects of compliance in international trade.
We harness the reach, expertise and knowledge of a network of experts in 51 Chambers across the country.
What our Customs Consultancy customers say:
““We cannot recommend Chamber Customs highly enough. They were very professional, friendly, supportive, extremely knowledgeable and very efficient.
From the time we made contact with them to receive our report, and our follow up meeting, they kept us informed at every stage.
If anyone is looking for guidance and advice regarding customs procedures, then ChamberCustoms are the people to call.””
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