HS 840420 Condensers for steam or other vapour power units
Quick Answer: Condensers for steam or other vapour power units imported under HS 840420 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 5% ad valorem (with preferential rates for certain trade partners). This HS code specifically covers devices designed to condense steam or other vapors, typically used in power generation systems to convert vapor back into liquid for reuse. Importers should be aware of the varied tariff treatment across major markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential rates for the US market to ensure accurate duty payments and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8404200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8404200000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8404200000 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | ["t"] |
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 8404.20?
Imports of Condensers for steam or other vapour power units 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, and 15 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 840420 cover?
This subheading covers condensers specifically designed for steam or other vapour power units, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are essential components in thermodynamic cycles, responsible for converting exhaust steam or vapour back into liquid form for reuse. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, emphasize their role in the power generation process, distinguishing them from general heat exchangers.
What falls outside HS 840420?
The following products are excluded from HS 840420: general-purpose heat exchangers not specifically for steam or vapour power units, such as those used in refrigeration systems (HS 8418), air conditioning (HS 8415), or industrial process heating (often classified under HS 8419). Condensers for internal combustion engines or other non-power generation applications are also excluded, as are complete steam or vapour power units themselves, which fall under heading 8404.10.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 840420?
A common error is misclassifying condensers that are part of a larger, integrated system where the primary function is not solely condensation for a power unit. For instance, a condenser integrated into a refrigeration unit might be mistakenly classified here. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, which dictates classification based on the essential character of the good when it has multiple components or functions, is crucial to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 840420?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 840420 involves a detailed examination of the product's design, intended use, and technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff) and the WCO Explanatory Notes. Verifying that the condenser is specifically designed for steam or other vapour power units, and not for general heat exchange or other applications, is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 840420?
A large industrial steam condenser weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD would attract a US duty of $2,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $50,000 USD = $2,500.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 840420?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 840420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, a preferential rate of 0% may apply under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement if enacted. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, or a EUR.1 movement certificate for certain other agreements, to claim these preferences.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 840420, 'Condensers for steam or other vapour power units'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 840420 can vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. tariff rate is 2.70% ad valorem. In the EU, under TARIC, the rate is 0.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 840420, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 840420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a condenser valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. with an MFN duty rate of 2.70%, the duty would be calculated as $10,000 × 0.0270 = $270.00. Always ensure your customs valuation is accurate and compliant with the importing country's regulations.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 840420?
To be classified under HS code 840420, the goods must be 'Condensers for steam or other vapour power units'. This means the primary function of the equipment is to condense steam or other vapors, typically as part of a system that generates power, such as in a steam turbine power plant or a Rankine cycle system. The condenser facilitates the conversion of vapor back into liquid, thereby completing the thermodynamic cycle and improving efficiency. It is not intended for air conditioning or refrigeration systems, which fall under different HS headings.
Which trade agreements often provide preferential duty rates for HS code 840420?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free (0.00%) entry for HS code 840420. Examples include agreements between the U.S. and countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), where preferential rates are listed as 'Free (A*, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG)'. Similarly, the EU and UK have agreements that may grant preferential access. Importers must verify their eligibility and possess the required proof of origin documentation to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required for importing condensers under HS code 840420?
Standard import documentation for HS code 840420 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be mandatory. Technical specifications or datasheets confirming the item's function as a condenser for steam or other vapour power units might also be requested by customs authorities to verify classification.