HS 842833 Other, belt type
Quick Answer: Other belt-type continuous-acting self-loading or unloading machinery for goods enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 35% (MFN rate), though some US imports may be duty-free. This classification specifically covers machinery that uses a continuous belt to move goods, such as conveyor belts, but excludes those primarily designed for specific tasks like mining or construction. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential for the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428330000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428330000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428330000 | 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 842833 cover?
This subheading covers mechanical handling equipment of heading 8428, specifically those that utilize a belt as the primary conveying mechanism and are not otherwise specified. According to the 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 includes a wide array of belt conveyors, such as those used in industrial settings for moving bulk materials or packaged goods, and portable belt conveyors. The key defining characteristic is the continuous loop of flexible material (the belt) driven by pulleys to transport items.
What falls outside HS 842833?
The following products are excluded from HS 842833: conveyor systems that do not primarily use belts, such as roller conveyors (HS 842839), screw conveyors (HS 842839), or pneumatic conveyors. Also excluded are specialized lifting or handling machines that may incorporate belts but are classified elsewhere, such as certain types of elevators or escalators (HS 842810, 842840). Items where the belt is incidental to the primary function, like a conveyor belt on a specific processing machine, are also generally excluded and classified with the main machine.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842833?
A common error is misclassifying complex conveyor systems where multiple conveying mechanisms are present. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3, when goods are classifiable under two or more headings or subheadings, classification shall be determined by the specific function and essential character. For instance, a system that combines a belt conveyor with a significant roller conveyor section might be incorrectly classified solely as a belt type if the roller section provides the essential character of the operation.
How should importers classify products under HS 842833?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 842833 involves a detailed examination of the equipment's design and primary function. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the equipment is a mechanical handling device under heading 8428. Subsequently, they must verify that the primary means of transport is a belt. Consulting the official Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific definitions within the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842833?
A portable belt conveyor weighing 150 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $2,500 = $125.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 842833.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842833?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842833, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible conveyor belts originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), often requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 8428.33, covering 'other, belt type' lifting, carrying, loading or unloading machinery?
Import duty rates for HS code 8428.33 vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 0.00% for goods originating from certain countries with preferential trade agreements, but may be higher otherwise. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often Free for goods from certain partner countries. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your goods' origin.
How is HS code 8428.33 classified, and what specific criteria distinguish it from other lifting and handling equipment?
HS code 8428.33 falls under heading 84.28, which covers 'Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery (for example, lifts, elevators, escalators, conveyors, and cranes); parts thereof'. The subheading 8428.33 specifically applies to 'Other continuous-action elevators and conveyors, belt type'. Key classification criteria include: 1. The machinery must be designed for continuous action, meaning it operates without interruption to move goods. 2. The primary mechanism for conveying or lifting must be a belt. This distinguishes it from roller conveyors (8428.32) or other types of continuous-action machinery not primarily belt-driven. 3. It must be for lifting, carrying, loading, or unloading. Parts of such machinery are also classified here if they meet the criteria.
What documentation is typically required when importing machinery classified under HS code 8428.33?
Standard import documentation for machinery under HS code 8428.33 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transport. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Safety certifications or compliance documents related to machinery standards might also be necessary, especially in regions with stringent safety regulations for industrial equipment.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 8428.33, and how can importers benefit?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 8428.33. For instance, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), which may offer reduced or zero duties on qualifying goods. The EU has numerous Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements with countries worldwide, often granting preferential access. The UK has its own set of Free Trade Agreements post-Brexit. To benefit, importers must ensure the machinery originates from a country that is a party to a relevant trade agreement and can provide a valid Certificate of Origin demonstrating this compliance. This often requires careful supply chain verification and adherence to the agreement's rules of origin.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 8428.33, and can you provide a numerical example?
The calculation of import duty depends on the duty rate applied and the basis of valuation. For HS code 8428.33, if a country applies an ad valorem duty rate (a percentage of the value), the duty is calculated as: Duty = (Customs Value of Goods) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if a belt-type conveyor system valued at $50,000 USD is imported into a country with an MFN ad valorem duty rate of 3.5%, the duty would be: Duty = $50,000 × 3.5% = $50,000 × 0.035 = $1,750. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per unit) or a combination rate is applied, the calculation would differ accordingly. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the importing country's customs authority.