HS 841231 Pneumatic power engines and motors

Quick Answer: Pneumatic power engines and motors imported under HS 841231 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.20%, and the US with a MFN rate of Free, though other rates up to 27.5% may apply. This HS code specifically covers pneumatic motors and engines, which utilize compressed air to generate mechanical power for various industrial applications. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry under the MFN rate for this classification, other trade agreements or specific product variations could trigger different duty assessments. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information, highlighting the need for precise classification and awareness of jurisdictional tariff structures for efficient trade.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8412310000 — — —
8412310010 — — —
8412310090 4.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8412310000 — — —
8412310010 — — —
8412310090 4.20 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8412310040 — — ["No."]
84123100 Free — —
8412310080 — — ["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?

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What products does HS 841231 cover?

This subheading covers pneumatic power engines and motors, which are machines that convert energy from compressed air into mechanical motion. 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 devices utilize the expansion of compressed air to produce rotary or linear motion. Examples include pneumatic cylinders, pneumatic motors, and air-powered actuators designed for industrial applications, with typical operating pressures exceeding 0.05 MPa.

What falls outside HS 841231?

The following products are excluded from HS 841231: pneumatic tools that are designed for hand-held operation (e.g., pneumatic drills, grinders, sanders, which are typically classified under HS 8467), air compressors which generate compressed air (classified under HS 8414), and hydraulic power engines and motors (classified under HS 841221). Devices that use a different power source, such as electric motors or internal combustion engines, are also excluded, even if they are used in conjunction with pneumatic systems. Items primarily for inflation or air movement, like fans, are also not covered.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 841231?

A common error is misclassifying pneumatic tools designed for manual operation under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Pneumatic tools, such as impact wrenches or nail guns, are specifically provided for under HS 8467, even though they utilize pneumatic power. Importers may also mistakenly classify air preparation units (e.g., filters, regulators) with the motors themselves, when these are typically classified separately based on their specific function.

How should importers classify products under HS 841231?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 841231 involves a thorough examination of the product's function and design. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the device uses compressed air as its primary power source to generate mechanical motion and if it is designed as a standalone engine or motor, rather than a tool or accessory. Verifying the operating pressure and intended application is crucial.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 841231?

A Festo DNC-32-200-PPV-A pneumatic cylinder weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $10.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($150 USD × 7.0% = $10.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 841231.9000 (other pneumatic power engines and motors).

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 841231?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 841231, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying pneumatic power engines and motors originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is required. Additionally, for goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) in some jurisdictions, preferential rates or duty-free treatment may apply, often requiring a GSP Form A. The specific documentation and eligibility criteria must be verified for each trade agreement and origin country.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 841221 HS 841210 HS 846792 HS 840731 HS 848120 HS 840790

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) into the United States?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for pneumatic power engines and motors under HS code 841231 into the United States is typically 4.00% ad valorem. This rate is applied to the customs value of the imported goods. For specific preferential rates under trade agreements like the USMCA, it is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and provide the correct country of origin and proof of eligibility. For example, if a pneumatic motor valued at $10,000 is imported from a country with a 4.00% MFN duty, the estimated duty would be $10,000 * 0.04 = $400.

How is HS code 841231 defined, and what distinguishes pneumatic power engines and motors from other types of motors?

HS code 841231 specifically covers 'Pneumatic power engines and motors'. These are machines that convert the energy of compressed air into mechanical motion, typically rotational or linear. They are distinguished from electric motors (covered in Chapter 85) or internal combustion engines (covered in Chapter 84, but different subheadings) by their reliance on compressed air as the power source. Key classification criteria include the mechanism of operation (using compressed air) and the output of mechanical power. For instance, a rotary vane motor powered by compressed air would fall under this code, whereas a DC motor would not.

What documentation is typically required for importing pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) into the European Union?

When importing pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) into the European Union, importers and customs brokers must typically provide an import declaration. This declaration includes the correct HS code, country of origin, quantity, and customs value. Depending on the origin of the goods and any applicable trade agreements, proof of origin (e.g., an EUR.1 certificate or origin declaration) may be required to claim preferential duty rates. Additionally, technical documentation demonstrating compliance with relevant EU safety standards might be requested, although specific certifications are not universally mandated for this general classification unless the product falls under specific directives (e.g., machinery directive if considered a component part).

Are there common trade agreements that offer reduced or zero duty rates for pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) into the United Kingdom?

Yes, the United Kingdom has various trade agreements that can affect duty rates for HS code 841231. For goods originating from countries with which the UK has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), such as the EU (under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement) or Australia, preferential duty rates, often 0% ad valorem, may apply. To benefit from these agreements, importers must provide valid proof of origin, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective FTA. The UK Global Online Tariff provides detailed information on duty rates and preferential access based on the country of origin.

How is the import duty calculated for pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) if the duty rate is 4.20% ad valorem and the goods have a declared customs value of £5,000?

The import duty for pneumatic power engines and motors (HS 841231) with a duty rate of 4.20% ad valorem and a declared customs value of £5,000 is calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, the duty would be £5,000 × 4.20% = £5,000 × 0.0420 = £210. This calculation assumes the customs value is correctly determined and no other duties or taxes, such as Value Added Tax (VAT) or specific import levies, are applicable.