HS 847170 Storage units
Quick Answer: Storage units imported under HS 847170 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 3.5% ad valorem. This HS code encompasses a broad category of devices designed for storing digital data, including internal and external hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), optical drives (CD/DVD/Blu-ray), and flash memory drives. It also covers storage arrays and network-attached storage (NAS) devices. Importers should be aware that while many storage units are duty-free in major markets, specific types or those with advanced functionalities might be subject to different rates or require specific declarations. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8471700000 | — | — | — |
| 8471705000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471707000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471708000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471702000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8471700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471702000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471703000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471705000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8471707000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8471701000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8471702000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8471703000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 84717040 | Free | — | — |
| 8471704065 | — | — | ["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 847170 cover?
This subheading covers storage units designed to be used with automatic data processing machines of heading 8471. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this includes devices such as hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), optical disk drives (CD/DVD/Blu-ray), and magnetic tape drives, whether internal or external, that are primarily intended for storing digital data. These units are integral components for the functioning of computers and related data processing equipment.
What falls outside HS 847170?
The following products are excluded from HS 847170: storage media themselves (e.g., blank CDs, DVDs, USB flash drives without integrated controllers), standalone data recorders not designed for integration with automatic data processing machines, and storage units that are not primarily for digital data storage, such as analog audio/video recorders. For instance, a portable external hard drive specifically marketed for backup of digital cameras might be classified elsewhere if its primary function is not integration with an ADP machine, and blank optical media falls under Chapter 37 or 85.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 847170?
A common error is misclassifying external storage devices that are not solely intended for use with automatic data processing machines. For example, a portable external SSD marketed for professional photography backup might be incorrectly classified under 847170 if its primary function is not integration into an ADP system as per General Rule of Interpretation 1. Also, confusing storage units with their media, such as classifying a blank USB drive under this heading instead of its appropriate heading (e.g., 8523), is a frequent mistake.
How should importers classify products under HS 847170?
The correct procedure for classifying storage units under HS 847170 involves first confirming that the unit is designed for use with automatic data processing machines of heading 8471. Importers and customs brokers should consult the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. Key considerations include the unit's interface (e.g., SATA, NVMe, USB) and its intended primary application to ensure it meets the definition of a storage unit for ADP machines.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 847170?
A 1TB NVMe SSD, declared at a customs value of $100 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 0% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8471.70.10.00. Therefore, the duty amount is 0% × $100 USD = $0.00 USD. Many countries offer duty-free treatment for such computer components under their national tariffs.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 847170?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 847170, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, often Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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 847170 (Storage units)?
Import duty rates for HS code 847170, covering 'Storage units', vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system often shows a 0.00% duty rate for many types of storage units falling under this code. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also typically lists a 0.00% duty rate for these goods. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country at the time of import, as rates can change and preferential agreements may offer further reductions or duty-free entry.
What specific types of storage units are classified under HS code 847170?
HS code 847170 is specifically for 'Storage units' that are part of automatic data processing machines or units thereof. This primarily includes devices like hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), optical disk drives (CD/DVD/Blu-ray), and other magnetic or optical storage media intended for use within or as external components of computers or similar data processing equipment. It generally excludes standalone storage devices not designed for direct connection to a computer system for data processing purposes, which might be classified elsewhere.
How is the import duty for HS 847170 calculated? Provide an example.
The import duty for HS code 847170 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate for a shipment of SSDs classified under 847170 is 0.00% ad valorem, and the declared customs value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: 0.00% of $10,000 USD = $0.00 USD. In scenarios where a specific duty rate (e.g., per unit) might apply, the calculation would be Rate per Unit × Number of Units. Always verify the applicable duty calculation method and rate in the destination country's tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing storage units under HS code 847170?
When importing storage units classified under HS code 847170, standard import documentation is generally 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 for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product brochures if customs authorities require further clarification on the classification or functionality of the storage units.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS code 847170?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly affect duty rates for HS code 847170. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), eligible storage units originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for duty-free entry into the United States, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous free trade agreements with various countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under 847170. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.