HS 842381 Other weighing machinery
Quick Answer: Weighing machinery not specified elsewhere under HS 842381 enters the UK and EU duty-free, while the United States imposes a 45% ad valorem Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate. This classification encompasses a broad range of weighing instruments not covered by more specific headings within Chapter 84, such as automatic weighing machines and other weighing appliances for continuous measurement. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between the US and other major markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification for cost-effective trade. Exporters to the US should factor in the substantial tariff burden.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8423812100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423812500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423818000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423810000 | — | — | — |
| 8423812300 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8423810000 | — | — | — |
| 8423812100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423812300 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423812500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8423812900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 84238100 | Free | — | — |
| 8423810020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8423810050 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8423810010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8423810030 | — | — | ["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 842381 cover?
This subheading covers other weighing machinery not specified in preceding subheadings of heading 8423, specifically those designed for continuous weighing. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes automatic weighing machines that operate by continuously measuring the weight of goods passing through them, such as belt weighers, weigh feeders, and loss-in-weight feeders used in industrial processes. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this broad definition, encompassing machinery that automatically determines weight without manual intervention for each item.
What falls outside HS 842381?
The following products are excluded from HS 842381: weighing machinery for continuous weighing that is specifically designed for retail sale (often classified under 8423.82), machinery for weighing by the piece (8423.82), and automatic check-weighing machinery (8423.82). Also excluded are weighing machinery for laboratory use (e.g., analytical balances, typically found in 8423.20) and scales integrated into other machines where weighing is not the primary function, such as scales on forklifts or excavators, which would be classified based on the primary machine's function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842381?
A common error is misclassifying automatic check-weighing machinery, which is intended to verify if pre-packaged goods meet a specified weight range, under 842381. These check-weighers are typically classified under 8423.82 as "weighing machinery for the piece." Another mistake involves classifying weighing machinery that is not for continuous weighing, such as batch weighers or scales for individual item weighing, under this subheading, contrary to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(a) which prioritizes the most specific heading or subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 842381?
The correct procedure for classifying weighing machinery under HS 842381 involves determining if the machine is designed for continuous weighing operations. Importers and customs brokers must carefully review product specifications, operational manuals, and manufacturer declarations to ascertain the primary function. If the machinery continuously measures weight as goods pass through it, and is not otherwise specifically classified, then 842381 is likely appropriate. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842381?
A continuous belt weigher weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8423.81.0000. Note that specific rates can vary by country and origin.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842381?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842381, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico may receive a duty rate of Free. Documentation required to claim preference under USMCA typically involves a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 842381, 'Other weighing machinery'?
The import duty rates for HS code 842381 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is often Free (0.00%). However, preferential rates under trade agreements (e.g., USMCA) can also result in Free entry. Conversely, some countries may apply higher rates. For instance, the EU's TARIC system might show rates that can reach up to 4.5% ad valorem for certain origins. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and current duty rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty for HS code 842381 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 842381 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of 'other weighing machinery' has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. Some weighing machinery might also be subject to specific duties based on weight or unit, but for 842381, ad valorem is most common. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the destination country's tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 842381?
HS code 842381 covers 'Other weighing machinery' not specified elsewhere in heading 8423. This typically includes weighing machinery that is not designed for domestic use (covered by 8423.10), not for use in shops (covered by 8423.20), not for use in laboratories (covered by 8423.30), and not automatic dispensing machines or vending machines (covered by 8423.82). Key classification criteria include the machine's function (weighing), its capacity, its intended use (e.g., industrial, commercial, analytical), and whether it incorporates features that would place it under a more specific subheading. For instance, a portable digital scale for general industrial use, not fitting the criteria for domestic, shop, or laboratory use, would likely fall under 842381.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 842381?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 842381. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, value, and origin of the weighing machinery. A packing list is also essential. A bill of lading or air waybill serves as the transport document. Depending on the importing country and the specific type of weighing machinery, a certificate of origin may be needed to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Some countries may also require specific safety or performance certifications, especially for industrial or medical weighing equipment, to ensure compliance with national standards. Always check the importing country's customs regulations for any specific endorsements or permits.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, impact the duty rates for HS code 842381?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS code 842381. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), eligible weighing machinery originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the U.S. duty-free, provided all USMCA rules of origin are met. Similarly, the European Union has numerous trade agreements with third countries that can offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry or reduced tariffs for goods originating from partner nations. To benefit from these agreements, importers must typically provide proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or an origin declaration on the invoice, as stipulated by the specific trade agreement. It is crucial to verify the origin of the goods and ensure compliance with the rules of origin for the relevant trade agreement.