HS 850131 Other DC motors; DC generators, other than photovoltaic generators
Quick Answer: DC motors and generators, other than photovoltaic types, imported under HS 850131 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 2.8% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification covers a range of direct current electrical machines used for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy or vice versa, excluding those specifically designed for solar power generation. Importers should consult specific tariff schedules for applicable rates and potential trade agreement benefits. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501310000 | — | — | — |
| 8501310010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501310047 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501310048 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8501310049 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501310000 | — | — | — |
| 8501310010 | — | — | — |
| 8501310020 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8501310045 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8501310047 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8501312000 | 2.8% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8501316000 | 2.4% | Free (19 programs) | ["No."] |
| 850131 | — | — | — |
| 8501314000 | 4% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8501315000 | 3.3% | 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 8501.31?
Imports of Other DC motors; DC generators, other than photovoltaic generators 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 17 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 850131 cover?
This subheading covers direct current (DC) motors and DC generators, excluding those specifically designed for photovoltaic power generation. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes a wide array of DC electrical machines. For instance, the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this as "Other DC motors; DC generators, other than photovoltaic generators," encompassing devices with a power rating not exceeding 750 W.
What falls outside HS 850131?
The following products are excluded from HS 850131: DC motors and generators with a power rating exceeding 750 W, which are classified under HS 850132. Also excluded are photovoltaic generators (solar panels), classified under HS 8541.43. Furthermore, AC motors and generators, as well as universal AC/DC motors, are classified under other headings within HS 8501, such as 850140 for AC motors of an output not exceeding 750 W.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850131?
A common error is misinterpreting the power rating threshold of 750 W, leading to the incorrect classification of higher-powered DC motors and generators under this subheading. This violates 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. Importers may also mistakenly classify universal motors (capable of operating on both AC and DC) under this code, when they should be classified based on their primary mode of operation or as universal motors if explicitly provided for.
How should importers classify products under HS 850131?
The correct procedure for classifying DC motors and generators under HS 850131 involves verifying the product's direct current (DC) operation and its power output. Importers and customs brokers must consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC database, to confirm the power rating limit of 750 W. Technical specifications from the manufacturer are crucial for accurate determination, ensuring the product is not a photovoltaic generator or an AC motor.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850131?
A 12V DC motor for a small appliance, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS 8501.31.0000), resulting in a duty of 7% × $50 = $3.50.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850131?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850131, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for eligible goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer preferential rates, often Free, for eligible goods from developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 8501.31?
The import duty rates for HS code 8501.31, covering 'Other DC motors; DC generators, other than photovoltaic generators,' vary by country. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.70% ad valorem. Under the UK's tariff system, the rate is 2.8% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may also have specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty rate. For example, under the US HTS, certain preferential trade agreements may offer duty-free entry (0.00%).
How is the duty for HS 8501.31 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 8501.31 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of DC motors classified under 8501.31 has a declared customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.70% (as per the US MFN rate), the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270.00. Some DC motors or generators might also be subject to specific unit duties in certain jurisdictions, so always verify the calculation basis in the importing country's tariff.
What specific criteria distinguish DC motors and generators under HS 8501.31 from other classifications?
HS code 8501.31 covers 'Other DC motors; DC generators, other than photovoltaic generators.' The key classification criteria are: 1) The motor or generator must operate using Direct Current (DC). 2) It must not be a photovoltaic generator (which has its own HS code). 3) It must not be specifically covered by other, more specific headings within Chapter 85. For example, electric motors with a power output not exceeding 37.5 W are classified under 8501.10. Therefore, motors and generators under 8501.31 are typically those with a power output exceeding 37.5 W or other DC generators not otherwise specified.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 8501.31?
When importing goods under HS code 8501.31, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the DC motors or generators. A packing list specifying the contents of each package is also essential. A bill of lading or air waybill serves as the contract of carriage. Depending on the exporting country and the importing country's regulations, a certificate of origin may be needed to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or datasheets for the electrical equipment to substantiate the HS classification.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 8501.31 imports into the US or UK?
For imports into the United States, trade agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer preferential duty rates, potentially including duty-free entry (0.00%), for goods originating from Canada or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Other agreements, such as those with Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or Singapore (SG), are listed with 'Free' entry under the US HTS, indicating duty-free status if origin requirements are met. For imports into the United Kingdom, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), or Japan (JP) could provide reduced or zero duty rates. It is imperative for importers to verify the specific rules of origin and eligibility criteria for each trade agreement with the relevant customs authority (e.g., USITC for the US, UK Trade Tariff for the UK) to confirm eligibility for preferential treatment.