HS 848120 Valves for oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmissions
Quick Answer: Valves for oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmissions imported under HS 848120 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.20%, and the US at 2% (MFN) or Free for certain trade partners. This classification covers valves specifically designed for use in systems that transmit power through hydraulic fluid (oleohydraulic) or compressed air (pneumatic). Examples include directional control valves, pressure relief valves, and flow control valves used in machinery, industrial equipment, and vehicles. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on the specific type of valve and the importing country's preferential trade agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and optimize duty payments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8481200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8481201000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8481201020 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8481201090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8481209000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8481200000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8481201000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8481201020 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8481201090 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8481209000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8481200010 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 8481200030 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 8481200050 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 8481200070 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 84812000 | 2% | Free (18 programs) | — |
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 8481.20?
Imports of Valves for oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmissions 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 16 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 848120 cover?
This subheading covers valves specifically designed for use in oleohydraulic or pneumatic power transmission systems, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Explanatory Notes. These valves control the flow, pressure, or direction of hydraulic fluid or compressed air in machinery like excavators, presses, and automated manufacturing equipment. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this category includes directional control valves, pressure relief valves, and flow control valves integral to such systems, excluding general-purpose valves.
What falls outside HS 848120?
The following products are excluded from HS 848120: general-purpose valves for water or other non-oleohydraulic/pneumatic applications (e.g., plumbing valves, typically classified under 848180), valves for refrigeration or air-conditioning systems (often in 841899), and valves that are integral parts of other specific machinery and not designed for separate oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmission use. For instance, a simple shut-off valve for a water pipe would not fall under this code, nor would a valve integrated into a medical device.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 848120?
A common error is misclassifying general-purpose industrial valves or valves for other fluid systems under HS 848120. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly assume any valve used in an industrial setting belongs here, overlooking the specific requirement for oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmission. For example, a valve for a steam boiler would likely be classified elsewhere, not under 848120.
How should importers classify products under HS 848120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 848120 involves a thorough examination of the valve's intended function and design. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the valve is specifically engineered for controlling the flow, pressure, or direction of hydraulic fluid or compressed air in power transmission systems. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for detailed descriptions and examples is crucial. Confirming the valve's technical specifications against the subheading's scope ensures accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 848120?
A Bosch Rexroth directional control valve, weighing 2.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8481.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 848120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 848120, 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 EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, often Free, for originating goods between the EU and the UK. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK trade, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 848120 (Valves for oleohydraulic or pneumatic transmissions)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 848120 is generally 2.00% ad valorem in many major economies like the United States. However, specific rates can vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For instance, the EU TARIC system may show different rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also has its own schedule. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. For example, under the EU TARIC, the rate might be 2.20% ad valorem, while other countries may offer preferential rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 848120 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 848120 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of oleohydraulic valves is valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $200.00. Some valves might also be subject to specific duties based on quantity, but ad valorem is most common for this heading.
What are the key classification criteria for valves to fall under HS code 848120?
To be classified under HS code 848120, valves must be specifically designed for use in oleohydraulic (using oil or other liquid) or pneumatic (using gas or air) power transmission systems. This means they control the flow, pressure, or direction of fluids within such systems. Exclusions typically include valves for general plumbing, water systems, or those primarily used for other purposes, even if they are mechanical. The WCO (World Customs Organization) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing these specialized valves.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 848120, and what are the implications for importers?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 848120. For example, agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU trade agreements with partner countries (e.g., CETA with Canada), and others often grant duty-free or reduced-duty access for goods originating from member countries. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to claim these preferential rates. The provided sample rates indicate potential free trade access from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) under certain agreements, significantly reducing landed costs.
What documentation is typically required for importing valves classified under HS code 848120?
Standard documentation for importing valves under HS code 848120 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 specific type of valve, additional documents may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment under trade agreements, or specific technical documentation demonstrating compliance with safety or performance standards. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all necessary paperwork is accurate and complete to avoid delays or penalties.