HS 840130 Fuel elements (cartridges), non-irradiated
Quick Answer: Fuel elements (cartridges), non-irradiated, imported under HS 840130 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at 3.3% ad valorem (MFN). This HS code specifically covers the fuel assemblies or cartridges used in nuclear reactors, which are not yet irradiated. These are typically specialized components designed for nuclear power generation. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the UK offers duty-free entry, the EU and US apply significant ad valorem duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential rates and any potential trade agreements that might affect these duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8401300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8401300020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8401300080 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8401300000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8401300020 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8401300080 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8401300000 | 3.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 8401.30?
Imports of Fuel elements (cartridges), non-irradiated may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 840130 cover?
This subheading covers fuel elements (cartridges) specifically designed for nuclear reactors, which are non-irradiated. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, these are assemblies of nuclear fuel, typically uranium or plutonium, enclosed in a protective casing, ready for insertion into a reactor core. They are distinguished by their intended use in generating nuclear power and their state of being unexposed to nuclear fission.
What falls outside HS 840130?
The following products are excluded from HS 840130: irradiated fuel elements, which have undergone nuclear fission and are therefore classified elsewhere, typically under HS 840140. Also excluded are spent fuel elements, which are the result of the nuclear process and require specialized handling. Furthermore, components of fuel elements that are not assembled into a complete, non-irradiated cartridge, such as individual fuel rods or cladding materials, would be classified under their respective headings based on their material composition and function, rather than as a complete fuel element.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 840130?
A common error is the misclassification of fuel elements based on their material composition rather than their specific function as non-irradiated nuclear fuel cartridges. For instance, classifying the raw uranium or plutonium before it is fabricated into a fuel element would be incorrect. Additionally, confusing non-irradiated fuel elements with those that have been irradiated or are intended for other nuclear applications, such as research or medical isotopes, can lead to misclassification. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 840130?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 840130 involves verifying that the item is indeed a fuel element or cartridge intended for a nuclear reactor and that it has not been irradiated. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes for Heading 8401. Confirmation of the product's intended use and its non-irradiated status is paramount, often requiring technical specifications or manufacturer declarations to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 840130?
A shipment of 10 non-irradiated fuel elements, each weighing 50 kg, declared at a customs value of $500,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $25,000. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS 840130 (5% × $500,000 = $25,000). Note that specific countries may have different duty rates or exemptions based on trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 840130?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 840130, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods can achieve a duty rate of Free. The primary origin countries benefiting from this preferential rate are Canada and Mexico. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the specific circumstances and value of the goods, as stipulated by US Customs and Border Protection regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 840130, 'Fuel elements (cartridges), non-irradiated'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 840130 is generally 3.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this duty. For instance, under the USMCA agreement, qualifying goods may enter duty-free. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS) for the most current rates applicable to your specific country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS code 840130 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 840130 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of non-irradiated fuel elements is valued at $100,000 and the MFN duty rate is 3.70%, the import duty would be $100,000 \times 0.0370 = $3,700. It is crucial to ensure accurate valuation and to apply the correct duty rate based on the origin of the goods and any applicable trade agreements.
What specific criteria define 'Fuel elements (cartridges), non-irradiated' under HS code 840130?
HS code 840130 covers fuel elements and cartridges for nuclear reactors, specifically those that have not been irradiated. This means they are intended for use in nuclear reactors to sustain a nuclear reaction but have not yet undergone the process of irradiation. The key distinction is the absence of irradiation. Irradiated fuel elements fall under different HS codes. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on the precise scope of this heading.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 840130?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 840130. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often grants duty-free entry for qualifying goods. Other agreements, such as those with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA) or Australia, may also offer reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must verify the specific rules of origin and eligibility requirements under each applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) website is a valuable resource for details on these agreements.
What documentation is typically required when importing non-irradiated fuel elements under HS code 840130?
When importing goods under HS code 840130, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the sensitive nature of nuclear materials, specific declarations and potentially licenses or permits from relevant government agencies (such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the US) may be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should proactively confirm all specific documentation requirements with the importing country's customs authority and any relevant regulatory bodies to ensure smooth clearance and compliance.