HS 850120 Universal AC/DC motors of an output exceeding 37,5 W
Quick Answer: Universal AC/DC motors of an output exceeding 37.5 W imported under HS 850120 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 3.3% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification covers electric motors that can operate on either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) and possess a power output greater than 37.5 watts. Importers should be aware of potential differences in duty rates across major trading blocs, as highlighted by CustomTariffs data. For specific applications or origin countries, preferential duty rates may apply in the US, potentially reducing the rate to Free.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501200000 | — | — | — |
| 8501200010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501200020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501200070 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501200070 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8501200000 | — | — | — |
| 8501200010 | — | — | — |
| 8501200020 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8501200050 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501202000 | 3.3% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8501205000 | 3.3% | Free (19 programs) | ["No."] |
| 850120 | — | — | — |
| 8501204000 | 4% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8501206000 | 2.4% | Free (19 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 8501.20?
Imports of Universal AC/DC motors of an output exceeding 37,5 W 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 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 850120 cover?
This subheading covers universal AC/DC motors with an electrical output exceeding 37.5 watts. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are motors designed to operate on either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power supplies. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes motors commonly found in household appliances, power tools, and other devices requiring versatile power sources, provided their output surpasses the specified wattage threshold.
What falls outside HS 850120?
The following products are excluded from HS 850120: universal AC/DC motors with an output of 37.5 watts or less, which are classified under HS 850120. Also excluded are single-phase or poly-phase AC motors and DC motors specifically designed for a single type of current, even if they are of a similar construction. For instance, dedicated AC induction motors or DC brushed motors not capable of operating on both current types would be classified elsewhere within heading 8501, based on their specific characteristics and power source.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850120?
A common error is misinterpreting the "output exceeding 37.5 W" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify motors with an output at or below this threshold under 850120. Furthermore, confusion can arise when distinguishing between universal motors and other types of AC or DC motors. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial for accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 850120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850120 involves first identifying the product as a universal AC/DC motor. Subsequently, the electrical output of the motor must be determined and confirmed to exceed 37.5 watts. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to verify the specific wording and any additional notes or subdivisions that may apply to the particular motor being imported.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850120?
A 100-watt universal AC/DC motor for a blender, declared at a customs value of $25.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $1.75. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is $25.00 (declared value) × 0.07 (duty rate) = $1.75 (duty amount). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850120, 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 UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for eligible goods moving between the UK and the EU. 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 import duty rates for HS code 850120, covering universal AC/DC motors exceeding 37.5 W?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850120 is typically 3.3% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). Importers should consult the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for specific rates applicable to their country of origin. The EU TARIC database and the UK Trade Tariff provide similar detailed duty information for those regions, often showing rates around 2.70% ad valorem for non-preferential treatment, with potential reductions for originating goods under specific trade pacts.
What specific criteria define a motor for classification under HS 850120?
HS code 850120 specifically covers 'Universal AC/DC motors of an output exceeding 37.5 W'. The key classification criteria are: 1) The motor must be capable of operating on both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) – these are often referred to as universal motors. 2) Its continuous rated output power must exceed 37.5 Watts (W). Motors with an output of 37.5 W or less, or those designed solely for AC or DC, would fall under different HS codes. For example, motors of an output not exceeding 37.5 W are classified under 850110.
How is the import duty for HS 850120 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 850120 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 universal AC/DC motors (HS 850120) has a total declared customs value of $10,000 and the applicable MFN duty rate is 3.3%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.033 (duty rate) = $330.00. If a specific trade agreement grants duty-free entry, the calculation would result in $0.00 duty.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS 850120?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 850120. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, quantity, value, and country of origin; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, for preferential duty rates, an Importer Security Filing (ISF) may be required for US imports. If claiming preferential treatment under a trade agreement (like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements), a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin on the invoice, compliant with the specific agreement's rules, is essential. Importers should verify specific requirements with their customs broker and the relevant customs authority.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 850120 imports into the US, EU, or UK?
In the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) often provides duty-free entry (0.00%) for qualifying motors originating from Canada or Mexico. Other agreements may offer reduced rates. The European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (e.g., with South Korea, Japan, Canada) that can reduce or eliminate the standard EU TARIC duty rate (often around 2.70%). Similarly, the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit, including the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement and others with countries like Japan and Australia, which can impact the duty rates found in the UK Trade Tariff. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin for any claimed preferential treatment.