HS 842131 Filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases
Quick Answer: Filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases imported under HS 842131 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at 2.5% ad valorem (MFN). This code covers equipment designed to clean or filter gases, such as air purifiers, gas scrubbers, and industrial filtration systems for gaseous emissions. Importers should be aware of potential variations in preferential duty rates for the US based on the country of origin. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these specific rates is crucial for accurate duty assessment and cost management in international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8421310000 | — | — | — |
| 8421310010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8421310090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8421310000 | — | — | — |
| 8421310010 | — | — | — |
| 8421310090 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8421310000 | 2.5% | Free (19 programs) | ["No."] |
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 8421.31?
Imports of Filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases 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 16 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 842131 cover?
This subheading covers filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) Nomenclature. This includes devices designed to remove solid particles, liquids, or other impurities from gaseous streams. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses air filters, gas purifiers, and similar equipment used in industrial, commercial, and residential settings to improve air quality or prepare gases for specific processes, excluding those for water. For example, activated carbon filters for removing odors from air fall under this code.
What falls outside HS 842131?
The following products are excluded from HS 842131: machinery and apparatus for filtering or purifying water (classified under 842121), general ventilation systems that do not actively filter or purify gases (often classified under 8414 or 8479), and simple filtering elements or cartridges when not presented as part of a complete apparatus (these may be classified based on their material or function, such as under Chapter 39 or 40). For instance, a standalone HEPA filter element without a housing or fan is not classified here, nor are devices solely for heating or cooling air.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842131?
A common error is misclassifying air purification devices that also perform other functions, such as humidification or dehumidification, without the primary function being gas purification. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, when goods are presented in sets, they are classified according to the component that gives them their essential character. If a device's essential character is not gas purification but rather climate control, it may fall under a different heading, such as 8479. Additionally, mistaking simple strainers for complex purifying apparatus can lead to incorrect classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 842131?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 842131 involves a thorough examination of the product's function and design. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the apparatus is designed to remove impurities from gases and the specific type of impurities targeted. If the product is a composite machine, its essential character must be determined according to the GRI. Always verify the product's technical specifications against the heading and subheading descriptions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842131?
A commercial air purifier unit designed for industrial use, weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8421.31.0000. The calculation is: 5.0% × $1,500 USD = $75.00. This example assumes no preferential trade agreements apply and the standard MFN rate is utilized.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842131?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842131, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for qualifying goods from member countries like Japan. To claim these preferences, a valid self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 842131, covering filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases?
Import duty rates for HS code 842131 vary significantly by country. For example, the United States (USITC) generally applies a 0.00% duty rate. The European Union (TARIC) may have rates around 1.70% ad valorem. The United Kingdom (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 most accurate and up-to-date rates. Some countries may also offer preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
How is the duty calculated for an import under HS 842131?
The duty calculation typically depends on the type of duty rate applied. If it's an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value), the formula is: (Customs Value of Goods × Ad Valorem Duty Rate) = Duty Amount. For example, if a gas filtering apparatus valued at $10,000 is imported into the EU with a 1.70% ad valorem duty rate, the duty would be ($10,000 × 0.0170) = $170. If a specific duty rate (per unit) applies, the calculation would be: (Quantity of Goods × Specific Duty Rate) = Duty Amount. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the relevant valuation rules.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 842131?
HS code 842131 covers machinery and apparatus specifically designed for filtering or purifying gases. This includes, but is not limited to, air filters, gas purifiers, and catalytic converters used for cleaning gaseous substances. The primary function must be the removal of impurities from a gas stream. Apparatus primarily designed for filtering liquids (HS 842121) or for separating solids from liquids or gases (HS 842129) would not be classified here. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to Chapter 84 provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 842131 imports?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 842131. For instance, the US has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Canada (C), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Mexico (MX - under USMCA), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), South Korea (KR), and others, which may offer reduced or zero duties for eligible goods. The EU also has numerous preferential trade agreements. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin and possess the required proof of origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin).
What documentation is typically required for importing gas filtering or purifying machinery under HS 842131?
Standard import documentation for HS 842131 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the apparatus, additional documents may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, or specific technical documentation demonstrating compliance with national safety or environmental standards. For certain advanced gas purification systems, manufacturers' specifications or test reports might be necessary. Customs brokers should verify these requirements with the destination country's customs authority.