HS 847950 Industrial robots, not elsewhere specified or included
Quick Answer: Industrial robots, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 847950 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at 2.5% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification covers automated machines designed for industrial applications that perform tasks through programmed movements, not fitting into more specific machinery categories. Importers should be aware of potential end-use restrictions or licensing requirements depending on the robot's capabilities and destination. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying tariff burdens across major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8479500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8479500000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8479500000 | 2.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 8479.50?
Imports of Industrial robots, not elsewhere specified or included 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, and 15 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?
What products does HS 847950 cover?
This subheading covers industrial robots, defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) as "automatically controlled, reprogrammable, multipurpose manipulator programmable in three or more axes, which is either fixed in place or mobile for use in automatic industrial applications." According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this includes machines designed for tasks such as welding, painting, assembly, or material handling, where the primary function is automated manipulation. These robots are distinct from simpler automated machinery.
What falls outside HS 847950?
The following products are excluded from HS 847950: machines that are not programmable or have fewer than three axes of movement, such as simple automated arms or pick-and-place machines that perform a single, fixed function. Also excluded are vehicles with robotic functions (e.g., automated guided vehicles used for transport, classified elsewhere) and specialized machines that perform a specific task and are not considered general-purpose manipulators, such as automated drilling machines or packaging machines.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 847950?
A common error is misclassifying machines that have some robotic capabilities but are primarily designed for a specific, non-manipulative function, or those that are not fully programmable in three or more axes. For instance, a highly automated assembly machine that performs a single, fixed sequence of operations might be mistakenly classified here. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to ensure correct classification based on the essential character of the machine.
How should importers classify products under HS 847950?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 847950 involves a thorough examination of the machine's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the machine meets the WCO definition of an industrial robot: automatically controlled, reprogrammable, multipurpose manipulator with at least three axes. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 847950?
A KUKA KR 16 industrial robot arm, weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,250. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8479.50. The calculation is: 5.0% × $25,000 USD = $1,250 USD.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 847950?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 847950, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible industrial robots originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free, provided a valid origin declaration is submitted. For goods from the United Kingdom, the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted and applicable to this specific product) or existing preferential arrangements may offer reduced rates, often requiring a UK Certificate of Origin. Documentation requirements vary by jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 847950 (Industrial robots)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 847950 is typically 1.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), industrial robots meeting the rules of origin may enter duty-free. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and any relevant trade agreements. The EU TARIC system and UK Trade Tariff will show different rates for those regions.
How is the import duty for HS 847950 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS 847950 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if an industrial robot is valued at $100,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be $100,000 * 0.0170 = $1,700 USD. If a specific duty (e.g., per unit) or a combination duty applies, the calculation would differ. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact calculation method.
What are the key classification criteria for classifying goods under HS code 847950?
HS code 847950 covers 'Industrial robots, not elsewhere specified or included'. The World Customs Organization (WCO) and national tariff authorities generally define an industrial robot as a programmable, multi-functional manipulator designed to move materials, parts, tools, or specialized devices through variable programmed motions for the performance of a variety of tasks. Key criteria include programmability, multi-functionality, and application in an industrial setting for automated tasks. Simple automated machinery or remote-controlled devices typically do not meet this definition.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 847950?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often leading to duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS 847950, provided they meet the relevant rules of origin. Examples include agreements between the US and countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia (AUSFTA), and potentially others. The EU and UK also have numerous trade agreements offering preferential treatment. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement text and the relevant customs authority's guidance to confirm eligibility and required documentation for claiming preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required when importing industrial robots under HS code 847950?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing industrial robots under HS 847950 may require specific documentation. This can include a detailed technical specification sheet confirming the robot's capabilities (programmability, multi-functionality), a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially safety certifications or declarations depending on the importing country's regulations. For robots manufactured in countries with specific trade agreements, proof of compliance with the rules of origin is crucial.