HS 840510 Producer gas or water gas generators, with or without their purifiers; acetylene gas generators and similar water process gas generators, with or without their purifiers
Quick Answer: Producer gas or water gas generators, with or without their purifiers; acetylene gas generators and similar water process gas generators, with or without their purifiers, imported under HS 840510 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at a Free rate under the MFN rate, with a potential 45% tariff also noted. This classification covers equipment designed to produce specific industrial gases through processes like gasification of solid fuels or the reaction of calcium carbide with water. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific product configurations and origin to ensure accurate duty assessment, as variations in purifier inclusion or specific gas generation methods may influence classification. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for global trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8405100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8405100000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8405100000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 840510 cover?
This subheading covers gas generators specifically designed for producing producer gas or water gas, which are typically mixtures of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen. It also includes acetylene gas generators and similar apparatus that produce water process gases. According to the 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 generators may be equipped with purifiers to remove impurities from the generated gas. The key function is the on-site generation of these specific types of fuel or industrial gases.
What falls outside HS 840510?
The following products are excluded from HS 840510: generators for other types of gases, such as steam reformers producing synthesis gas (often classified under 840510 or other headings depending on specific construction and primary function), air compressors (Chapter 84), or liquefaction plants (Chapter 84). Also excluded are simple gas storage cylinders or tanks (Chapter 73 or 84) and gas purification equipment when imported separately from the generator. For instance, a standalone carbon dioxide purification unit would not fall under this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 840510?
A common error is misclassifying complex integrated systems. For example, if a generator is part of a larger chemical processing plant where gas generation is a secondary function, it might not be classified under 840510. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods composed of different materials or made of different components which cannot be classified by reference to the terms of heading 3, the classification shall be determined by virtue of the material or component which gives to these goods their essential character. Therefore, the primary function and essential character of the entire apparatus must be considered.
How should importers classify products under HS 840510?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 840510 involves a thorough examination of the apparatus's design, intended use, and the type of gas it generates. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official nomenclature, including the WCO Explanatory Notes, and relevant national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). They should verify that the equipment's primary function is the generation of producer gas, water gas, acetylene gas, or similar water process gases, and that it is not primarily designed for other purposes such as air compression or steam production.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 840510?
A water gas generator weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500 USD). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 840510.00.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 840510?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 840510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for qualifying goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing country's customs authority.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 840510 (Producer gas or water gas generators)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 840510 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the MFN duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. Importers and brokers should always consult the latest tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU's TARIC database, to confirm the applicable duty rate for their specific origin and circumstances.
How is the import duty for a generator classified under HS 840510 calculated?
The duty for goods classified under HS 840510 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the goods' value. For instance, if a producer gas generator valued at $10,000 is imported into the US, and the MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.0170 = $170.00. It's crucial to use the correct customs value and the precise duty rate applicable at the time of import.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 840510?
When importing producer gas or water gas generators (HS 840510), standard import documentation is usually required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value and description of the goods, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific type of generator, additional certifications or permits related to safety, environmental standards, or origin might be necessary. Customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the importing country's customs authority.
Are there any common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 840510?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 840510 can be available under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs. For example, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the importing nation might qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements for the specific trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment. Consulting resources like the USITC's FTA pages or the EU's trade agreement information is recommended.
What distinguishes a generator falling under HS 840510 from other industrial machinery?
HS code 840510 specifically covers 'Producer gas or water gas generators, with or without their purifiers; acetylene gas generators and similar water process gas generators, with or without their purifiers.' The key classification criterion is the primary function of the machine: to generate specific types of gases (producer gas, water gas, acetylene, or similar process gases derived from water or carbonaceous materials) through processes like gasification or reaction with water. Machines that generate other types of gases or perform different primary industrial functions would be classified elsewhere, potentially under other headings within Chapter 84 of the Harmonized System.