HS 841912 Solar water heaters
Quick Answer: Solar water heaters imported under HS 841912 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.60% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of Free or 45% ad valorem, depending on specific circumstances. This classification covers apparatus for heating water by solar energy, typically comprising solar collectors and a storage tank. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity for the US market, which may necessitate careful consideration of product origin and any applicable trade agreements or exclusions. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8419120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8419120000 | 2.60 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8419120000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 841912 cover?
This subheading covers solar water heaters, which are devices that use solar energy to heat water. 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, this classification applies to complete units or kits specifically designed for solar water heating, often comprising collectors and storage tanks, but excluding simple solar collectors not integrated into a water heating system.
What falls outside HS 841912?
The following products are excluded from HS 841912: standalone solar collectors that are not part of a water heating system, such as those intended for space heating or pool heating without integrated water storage, and general heating apparatus of heading 8419 that do not utilize solar energy. Also excluded are simple storage tanks for hot water that are not specifically designed for solar systems, and electrical or gas water heaters, which fall under different HS codes within Chapter 84.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 841912?
A common error is misclassifying solar collectors that are sold separately from their water heating system components. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If a solar water heater is imported as a set of components that are clearly intended to form a solar water heater, it should be classified as such, rather than classifying individual parts under separate headings if the essential character of the goods is that of a solar water heater.
How should importers classify products under HS 841912?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 841912 involves a thorough examination of the product's design and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is specifically designed to heat water using solar energy and typically includes both solar collectors and a water storage component. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the relevant Explanatory Notes from the WCO are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 841912?
A residential solar water heater kit, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD and weighing 150 kg, would attract a US duty of $0.00 if it qualifies for duty-free treatment under a specific trade agreement. However, if subject to the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, for example, a hypothetical 3.5% ad valorem duty, the calculation would be 3.5% of $1,500, resulting in a duty of $52.50. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 841912?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 841912, 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, agreements like the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement can offer preferential rates, often Free, for goods originating from the EU or UK. Documentation such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences is typically required to claim these reduced duties.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 841912 (Solar water heaters) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, solar water heaters classified under HS code 841912 are generally subject to a 0.00% Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate. However, it is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific tariff rate based on the country of origin. Certain trade agreements or specific country programs might influence the applicable duty. Always consult the latest USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How is the import duty for HS 841912 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 841912 depends on the duty rate applied. If a duty rate is applicable (e.g., an ad valorem rate), it is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a solar water heater has a customs value of $500 and is subject to a 2.60% ad valorem duty rate, the duty amount would be $500 * 0.0260 = $13.00. If the duty rate is Free (0.00%), no duty is owed. Importers and brokers must confirm the specific duty rate and valuation rules applicable to their shipment.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 841912?
To be classified under HS code 841912, the goods must be solar water heaters. This typically means devices that use solar energy to heat water. Key components often include solar collectors (which absorb solar radiation) and a storage tank for the heated water. The primary function must be the heating of water using solar energy. Devices that primarily heat air or other substances, or those that are primarily designed for space heating rather than water heating, would likely fall under different HS codes. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide further guidance on classification.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing solar water heaters (HS 841912) into the EU?
When importing solar water heaters (HS 841912) into the European Union, standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and any applicable preferential trade agreements, a proof of origin (e.g., EUR.1 certificate or origin declaration) may be necessary to claim reduced or zero duty rates under the EU TARIC system. Importers and customs brokers should also be aware of any specific product safety, environmental, or energy efficiency certifications that may be mandated by EU regulations, although these are typically not part of the customs declaration itself but are compliance requirements for market access.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA, affect the duty rates for HS code 841912?
Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry (0.00%) for products like solar water heaters (HS 841912) into the United States, provided they meet the rules of origin. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim these preferential rates. Always verify the specific origin requirements and the preferential duty rate applicable under the relevant trade agreement by consulting official tariff schedules.