HS 845121 Drying machines

Quick Answer: Drying machines imported under HS 845121 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.20%, and the US at 3.4% (MFN). This classification covers machines designed for drying, typically for textiles, paper, or other materials, employing methods like hot air circulation or tumbling. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific machine types or origins within the US tariff schedule, which includes free entry for certain trading partners. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8451210000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8451210000 2.20 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8451210010 — — ["No."]
84512100 3.4% Free (17 programs) —
8451210090 — — ["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 8451.21?

Imports of Drying machines 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 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 845121 cover?

This subheading covers single, or multi-chamber, drying machines for textiles, paper, leather, or other materials, that are designed for industrial or commercial use and operate by passing heated air or other media through or around the material. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, these machines are distinct from domestic laundry dryers and are characterized by their capacity and specialized functions for bulk processing.

What falls outside HS 845121?

The following products are excluded from HS 845121: domestic laundry dryers, which are typically classified under HS 8450; drying ovens for laboratory use (HS 8514); drying equipment for food or agricultural products that are specifically designed for those purposes (e.g., grain dryers under HS 8436); and machines that perform drying as a secondary function to another primary operation, such as certain printing or finishing machines. Also excluded are simple drying racks or cabinets not incorporating active heating or air circulation mechanisms.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 845121?

A common error is misclassifying industrial drying machines that have integrated functions beyond simple drying, such as those that also perform washing or pressing. According to General Interpretative Rule 3(c) of the Harmonized System, when goods are classifiable under two or more headings by reason of having characteristics of several headings, they shall be classified as last in numerical order among those which give the most complete description. Importers may also mistakenly classify specialized drying equipment for specific industries, like wood or plastic, under this general heading when a more specific subheading exists.

How should importers classify products under HS 845121?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 845121 involves a thorough review of the machine's primary function, capacity, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Chapter 84 notes and heading 8451 descriptions. It is crucial to determine if the machine is designed for industrial textile, paper, or leather drying and to differentiate it from domestic appliances or specialized equipment for other materials.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845121?

A continuous industrial fabric drying machine, weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $150,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $7,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($150,000 USD × 0.05 = $7,500). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8451.21.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845121?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845121. For goods originating from Canada, Mexico, or the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may provide for a duty rate of Free, requiring a USMCA certification of origin. Similarly, preferential rates, often Free, may apply under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries, necessitating a GSP Form A. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, the Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU may offer preferential rates, potentially Free, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 845110 HS 845012 HS 842112 HS 841933 HS 845921 HS 845011

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 8451.21, covering 'Drying machines for textile fabrics'?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8451.21 can vary by country. For example, the U.S. tariff rate is 2.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may show different rates depending on origin, and the UK Trade Tariff also provides specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. Some trade agreements offer preferential rates, which can be as low as Free (e.g., under agreements with Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), Singapore (SG), among others).

How is the duty for HS code 8451.21 calculated? Can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 8451.21 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a tumble dryer for textile fabrics valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. with an MFN duty rate of 2.00%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.02 (duty rate) = $200. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, but for 8451.21, ad valorem is most common. Always verify the basis of duty calculation in the destination country's tariff.

What specific criteria distinguish a 'drying machine for textile fabrics' under HS 8451.21 from other drying machines?

HS code 8451.21 specifically covers drying machines designed for textile fabrics. Key classification criteria include the machine's primary function and its suitability for processing textiles. These machines typically employ heated air circulation, tumbling action, or other methods to remove moisture from fabrics after processes like washing, dyeing, or finishing. Machines for drying other materials, such as wood, paper, or food products, would fall under different HS codes. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on distinguishing these categories.

What documentation is typically required for importing drying machines classified under HS 8451.21?

Standard import documentation for HS code 8451.21 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. 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. Importers should also be prepared for potential requests for technical specifications or brochures to verify the classification and intended use of the drying machine. Compliance with safety and electrical standards may also necessitate specific certifications.

Which major trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS code 8451.21?

Several trade agreements offer reduced or free entry for goods classified under HS 8451.21. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), agreements between the EU and various countries (e.g., with South Korea, Singapore), and the UK's Global Tariff which incorporates preferences from its independent trade deals. Countries listed with 'Free' rates (A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG) often indicate participation in such agreements. To benefit, importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin and possess the required documentation, such as a valid certificate of origin.