HS 844331 Other printers, copying machines and facsimile machines, whether or not combined
Quick Answer: Printers, copying machines, and facsimile machines, whether or not combined, imported under HS 844331 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate of Free under the MFN tariff, though some specific items may face a 35% duty. This classification encompasses a broad range of office equipment that produces hard copies from digital data or duplicates existing documents, excluding those with the primary function of a computer. Importers should verify the specific product's functionality and origin to ensure accurate classification and duty assessment, as variations exist. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443310000 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 844331 cover?
This subheading covers "Other printers, copying machines and facsimile machines, whether or not combined," as per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. It specifically includes devices that perform printing, copying, or facsimile functions that are not exclusively classified under more specific subheadings within Heading 8443. For instance, multi-function devices (MFDs) that combine printing, scanning, and copying capabilities, and are not primarily fax machines, often fall here. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide detailed interpretations and examples, generally encompassing devices that output information onto paper or other media through various printing technologies.
What falls outside HS 844331?
The following products are excluded from HS 844331: dedicated facsimile machines (classified under 844332), dedicated printers (classified under 844332), and dedicated copying machines (classified under 844332). Also excluded are machines that perform these functions as a secondary or incidental operation to their primary function, such as certain industrial marking machines or plotters designed for technical drawings. Devices that are solely scanners or solely fax modems without printing or copying capabilities are also not classified here. For example, a standalone scanner is typically classified under HS 847160.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844331?
A common error is misinterpreting the primary function of combined-function machines. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c), when goods cannot be classified by reference to GRI 3(b), they shall be classified in the heading which occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration. Importers may incorrectly classify a device that primarily prints but also has a copying function under a more specific heading if the copying aspect is not the dominant feature. Furthermore, failing to distinguish between dedicated machines and combined units can lead to misclassification, with dedicated printers or copiers often falling under 844332.
How should importers classify products under HS 844331?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 844331 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and capabilities. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official WCO HS Nomenclature, as well as national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to understand the precise definitions and Explanatory Notes. If a machine combines printing, copying, and/or facsimile functions, its principal use or the component that gives it its essential character must be determined. If it's a multi-function device not specifically covered elsewhere, and its primary role is printing or copying, it likely falls under this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844331?
A Brother MFC-J491DW all-in-one inkjet printer, weighing 5.9 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 844331. The calculation is 0% × $150 USD = $0.00. Many countries have duty-free treatment for such office equipment under their standard tariff schedules or preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844331?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844331, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for eligible goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement is typically required for USMCA, while specific origin certificates or declarations may be necessary for CPTPP, depending on the jurisdiction and the value of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 844331 (Other printers, copying machines and facsimile machines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 844331 is 0.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may be eligible for duty-free entry. It is crucial to consult the specific trade agreement and verify the country of origin to determine eligibility. Always refer to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and accurate duty information.
How is the import duty for HS 844331 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 844331 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 0.00% and you import printers valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.00 = $0.00. If a specific trade agreement grants a preferential rate, say 2.5% ad valorem, and the goods are valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.025 = $250.00. Always ensure the declared value is the customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, shipping, and insurance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 844331?
When importing printers, copying machines, or facsimile machines under HS code 844331, standard import documentation is required. This 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 as the contract of carriage. Depending on the country of origin and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to prove eligibility for reduced or free trade duties. Importers should also be aware of any specific product safety or environmental regulations that might apply.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure goods are correctly classified under HS code 844331?
HS code 844331 covers 'Other printers, copying machines and facsimile machines, whether or not combined.' This means it acts as a residual category for machines that perform printing, copying, or facsimile functions but are not specifically classified elsewhere in Chapter 84. Key classification criteria include the primary function of the machine. For example, a standalone printer (inkjet, laser, etc.), a standalone copier, or a standalone fax machine, if not specifically enumerated under more specific subheadings, would fall here. If a machine combines functions (e.g., a multi-function printer/copier/scanner), its classification depends on the predominant function or if it's specifically provided for as a combined machine. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) and the national tariff schedules for detailed guidance on distinguishing features and primary functions.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 844331 into the United States?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 844331 entering the United States. These include agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced NAFTA, and other bilateral FTAs the US has with countries such as Australia, South Korea, and Singapore. To benefit from these agreements, the goods must meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement, and a valid Certificate of Origin must be presented to customs. Importers and customs brokers must meticulously verify the origin of the goods and ensure compliance with all requirements of the applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.