HS 842890 Other machinery
Quick Answer: Machinery imported under HS 842890 enters the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a 35% ad valorem tariff for some lines. This residual classification, "Other machinery," covers a broad spectrum of mechanical devices not specifically listed in preceding headings of Chapter 84. It encompasses a wide array of equipment, such as lifting and handling machinery not elsewhere specified, automated guided vehicles, and specialized industrial manipulators. Importers and customs brokers must carefully examine the specific function and design of the machinery to ensure it is correctly classified, as misclassification can lead to significant penalties. According to CustomTariffs data, the varied tariff treatments across major trading blocs necessitate thorough due diligence for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428900000 | — | — | — |
| 8428907100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428907900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428909000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428909020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428900310 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 84289003 | Free | — | — |
| 8428900390 | — | — | ["No."] |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8428900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428907100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428907900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428909000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8428909020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
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 842890 cover?
This subheading covers other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery not specified elsewhere in Heading 8428. 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 TARIC, this category includes a wide array of specialized equipment designed for material movement. Examples include automated guided vehicles (AGVs), certain types of conveyors not covered by more specific headings, robotic arms for industrial assembly, and specialized stacking or sorting machines, provided they do not fit into more precise classifications within Heading 8428.
What falls outside HS 842890?
The following products are excluded from HS 842890: machinery specifically classified under other subheadings of Heading 8428, such as elevators (8428.10), escalators (8428.20), or continuous-action elevators and conveyors (8428.30-8428.39). Additionally, general-purpose industrial robots (8479.50) and machinery for the assembly of semiconductor devices (8479.89.60) are classified elsewhere. Items that are not primarily machinery for lifting, handling, loading, or unloading, even if they involve movement, are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 842890?
A common error is misclassifying specialized machinery that has a more specific classification under Heading 8428 or even in other Chapters of the Harmonized System. For instance, a conveyor system that is part of a larger, integrated production line might be incorrectly classified here instead of under a more specific heading if it performs a primary function beyond simple material handling. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to ensure the most specific and appropriate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 842890?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 842890 involves a thorough review of the product's design, function, and operational characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and refer to the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 8428. If the machinery does not clearly fit into a more specific subheading within 8428 or another HS chapter, then 842890 becomes the appropriate residual classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 842890?
A robotic palletizer weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($25,000 USD × 0.05 = $1,250.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8428.90.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 842890?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 842890, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A, depending on the origin country and agreement, is typically required by customs authorities.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 842890, and how can I find preferential rates?
HS code 842890, covering 'Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery,' often has varied duty rates depending on the importing country. For example, the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0.00% for many items under this code. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can also apply, potentially reducing or eliminating duties. To find specific rates and preferential treatment, consult official tariff databases such as the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU's TARIC database, or the UK's Trade Tariff. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and the origin of the goods.
What are the classification criteria for machinery to be classified under HS 842890?
HS code 842890 is a residual category for machinery used for lifting, handling, loading, or unloading that is not specifically enumerated in other headings within Chapter 84. To qualify, the machinery must perform one of these functions. Examples include automated guided vehicles (AGVs), certain types of conveyors not covered elsewhere, palletizers, depalletizers, and specialized loading/unloading equipment. If a more specific HS code exists for the particular type of machinery (e.g., forklifts under 8429.59 or cranes under 8426), that code should be used instead. Classification relies on the primary function of the machine.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 842890?
Standard import documentation is generally required for goods classified under HS 842890. This 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 necessary. These could include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates), import licenses, safety certifications, or technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documentation.
How is the import duty calculated for HS 842890 if a duty rate applies, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS 842890 depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country. Duties are typically calculated as either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the goods' value) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a particular machine classified under 842890 has an ad valorem duty rate of 5% and its customs value is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.05 (Duty Rate) = $500 (Duty Amount). If a specific duty applied, it might be, for instance, $10 per unit, and for 5 units, the duty would be $50. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (value or quantity) with the official tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements might offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS code 842890?
Several major trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 842890. For instance, goods originating from countries party to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from preferential treatment when imported into the U.S., Canada, or Mexico. Similarly, imports into the European Union from countries with an Association Agreement or a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU may qualify for reduced or zero duties under the EU's TARIC system. The UK's trade agreements post-Brexit also offer preferential rates for goods originating from partner countries. To determine eligibility, importers must ensure the machinery meets the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin.