HS 842420 Spray guns and similar appliances
Quick Answer: Spray guns and similar appliances imported under HS 842420 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from Free to 35% ad valorem depending on specific product characteristics. This code encompasses devices designed to atomize and project liquids or powders, such as paint sprayers, agricultural sprayers, and aerosol dispensers. Importers should carefully verify the specific US tariff subheadings and associated rates, as these can differ significantly. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate duty assessment and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8424200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8424200000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8424209000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 842420 | — | — | — |
| 8424201000 | 2.9% | Free (18 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 8424.20?
Imports of Spray guns and similar appliances 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 15 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 842420 cover?
This subheading covers spray guns and similar appliances designed for the application of liquids or powders by spraying. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes devices that atomize and propel a fluid or particulate matter. Examples include paint spray guns, insecticide sprayers, and powder coating spray guns, provided they are designed for manual operation or as part of a larger spraying system. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on the scope of this classification.
What falls outside HS 842420?
The following products are excluded from HS 842420: appliances for spraying or dispersing agricultural or horticultural products, such as knapsack sprayers (classified under HS 842481), and machines and mechanical appliances for cleaning, washing, rinsing, drying, or filling bottles or other containers (classified under HS 8422). Also excluded are devices that primarily function as nozzles without a self-contained propulsion mechanism or are integral parts of larger machinery not primarily for spraying, such as those found in printing presses.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842420?
A common error is misclassifying devices that are not primarily spray guns or similar appliances. For instance, simple aerosol cans containing a propellant and product are not classified here but under their respective product categories. Additionally, industrial automated spraying machines, which are more complex and often stationary, may fall under HS 842489 (Other spraying machinery) rather than the manually operated or portable nature implied by 842420, following General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(a) for compound goods.
How should importers classify products under HS 842420?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 842420 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and method of operation. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official nomenclature, including the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. Key considerations include whether the appliance is designed for spraying liquids or powders and its intended application, ensuring it aligns with the description of "spray guns and similar appliances."
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842420?
A gravity-fed paint spray gun weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD would attract a US duty of $1.50 (3% × $50). This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 842420. For a specific product like the "Wagner Control Spray 350," if imported into the US with a declared value of $50, the MFN duty would be $1.50.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842420?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating spray guns from Canada and Mexico can enter the US duty-free. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a USMCA certification of origin. For imports into the European Union, originating goods from countries with preferential agreements may also benefit from reduced or zero duties, often 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 842420 (Spray guns and similar appliances)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 842420 can vary. For example, under the US tariff schedule, the MFN rate is 3.7% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable to their country of origin and the importing country's tariff schedule, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database.
How is the import duty for HS 842420 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 842420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of spray guns valued at $10,000 USD has an MFN duty rate of 3.7%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.037 = $370.00 USD. Always confirm the specific valuation method and applicable duty rate with the relevant customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 842420?
HS code 842420 covers 'Spray guns and similar appliances.' The primary criterion is the appliance's function: to atomize and project liquids or other substances in a spray. This includes manual spray guns, powered spray guns (like electric or pneumatic), and similar devices designed for application of paints, varnishes, pesticides, or other liquids. Appliances that do not atomize and project in a spray, such as simple pumps or dispensers, would likely be classified elsewhere.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing goods classified under HS 842420?
While standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are always required, specific documentation for HS 842420 might depend on the nature of the spray gun and its intended use. For example, if the spray gun is designed for applying hazardous materials (like certain pesticides), additional permits or declarations related to chemical safety or environmental regulations might be necessary. Importers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for any specific endorsements or certifications.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS 842420, and how can importers benefit?
Preferential duty rates for HS 842420 can often be found under free trade agreements (FTAs) such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or agreements between the EU and its trading partners. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant FTA and possess a valid Certificate of Origin. This allows for reduced or eliminated duties compared to the MFN rate. For example, goods originating from Canada or Mexico and meeting USMCA rules might enter the US duty-free, whereas the MFN rate is 3.7%.