HS 842820 Pneumatic elevators and conveyors
Quick Answer: Pneumatic elevators and conveyors imported under HS 842820 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 35% (MFN). This classification covers mechanical handling equipment that utilizes air pressure to move materials, such as pneumatic tube systems for transporting documents or goods, and bucket elevators that use air to lift bulk materials. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential in the United States compared to the UK and EU. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific tariff lines for precise duty application.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428202000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428200000 | — | — | — |
| 8428208000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428202000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428208000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428200010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8428200050 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 84282000 | Free | — | — |
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 842820 cover?
This subheading covers pneumatic elevators and conveyors, which are mechanical handling equipment that utilize compressed air to move materials. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes systems designed for the vertical or horizontal transport of bulk materials, such as grains, powders, or small packaged goods, through enclosed tubes or ducts using air pressure or vacuum. These systems are distinct from those employing mechanical means like belts or buckets.
What falls outside HS 842820?
The following products are excluded from HS 842820: pneumatic tires (Chapter 40), pneumatic tools (Heading 8467), and pneumatic actuators (Heading 8412). Also excluded are systems that primarily use vacuum for material handling but are not designed as conveyors or elevators in the sense of continuous transport, or those that rely on gravity or other non-pneumatic forces. For instance, simple pneumatic suction devices for cleaning or dust collection, even if they move material, are typically classified elsewhere based on their primary function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842820?
A common error is misclassifying pneumatic conveying systems that are integrated into larger processing machinery. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 4, goods are to be classified by the provision for goods of the kind described. If a pneumatic conveyor is an integral part of a larger machine, it may be classified with that machine. Importers may also incorrectly classify systems that use a combination of pneumatic and mechanical means, failing to identify the predominant characteristic of the apparatus.
How should importers classify products under HS 842820?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 842820 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and the medium used for material transport. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the primary mechanism for moving materials is the use of compressed air or vacuum. Consulting the official WCO Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific product descriptions and examples is crucial. If the product is a complete system, its overall function should be assessed.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842820?
A pneumatic grain conveyor system weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $10,000 USD would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $0.00. This is because pneumatic elevators and conveyors under HS 842820 are typically dutiable at 0% ad valorem under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $10,000 USD = $0.00 USD. This rate is based on the MFN tariff schedule published by the USITC.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842820?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842820, 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 EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for pneumatic elevators and conveyors (HS 842820)?
The import duty rates for HS code 842820, 'Pneumatic elevators and conveyors,' vary significantly by country. For example, under the United States' Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also apply. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to their shipment. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides the foundational HS nomenclature, but national tariff schedules detail the applied rates.
How is the duty calculated for pneumatic elevators and conveyors if a duty rate applies?
The duty calculation depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a country applied a 3.5% ad valorem duty on a pneumatic conveyor system valued at $50,000, the duty would be calculated as: $50,000 (Customs Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $1,750. If a specific duty applied, such as $10 per unit, and 10 units were imported, the duty would be: 10 units × $10/unit = $100. Always confirm the basis of duty assessment with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 842820?
HS code 842820 covers 'Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery.' Specifically for pneumatic elevators and conveyors, the key criterion is the use of air pressure (vacuum or positive pressure) to move materials. This distinguishes them from mechanical conveyors (e.g., belt, roller) or other types of elevators. The machinery must be designed for the continuous movement of goods or materials in a vertical or horizontal direction using pneumatic force. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (HSEN) for detailed guidance on scope and exclusions.
What documentation is typically required for importing pneumatic elevators and conveyors under HS 842820?
Standard import documentation for HS 842820 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the machinery, additional documents may be required. These could include a certificate of origin, import licenses, or specific safety and compliance certifications (e.g., CE marking for the EU market). It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the exact documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country prior to shipment.
Do trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS 842820?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For instance, if a pneumatic elevator is imported into the United States from a country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that eliminates duties on such goods, the applicable rate could be 0.00%, even if the MFN rate is higher. Conversely, goods from countries not covered by preferential agreements will be subject to the standard MFN rates. Importers and customs brokers must investigate applicable FTAs, such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or agreements between the EU and third countries, to determine eligibility for preferential duty treatment. This often requires a valid Certificate of Origin.