HS 850180 Photovoltaic AC generators

Quick Answer: Photovoltaic AC generators imported under HS 850180 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from 2.5% to 35% ad valorem, with many trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This HS code specifically covers AC generators that are powered by photovoltaic (solar) energy. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities across major markets, necessitating careful consideration of origin and applicable preferential trade agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8501800000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8501800000 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
850180 — — —
8501802000 2.5% Free (20 programs) ["No.","W"]
8501809000 2.4% Free (19 programs) ["No.","W"]
8501801000 2.5% Free (19 programs) ["No.","W"]
8501803000 2.5% Free (19 programs) ["No.","W"]

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 8501.80?

Imports of Photovoltaic AC 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, GSP, and 18 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?

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What products does HS 850180 cover?

This subheading covers photovoltaic AC generators, which are devices that convert solar energy directly into alternating current electricity. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these are distinct from DC generators and are specifically designed for grid-tied or off-grid AC power systems. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this category includes complete units or modules that perform this specific function, often referred to as solar inverters with integrated AC generation capabilities.

What falls outside HS 850180?

The following products are excluded from HS 850180: photovoltaic DC generators (which are classified under other subheadings within 8501), solar panels or modules that only produce DC power (classified under 8541.40), standalone inverters that convert DC to AC but do not generate AC from photovoltaic energy, and complete solar power systems that include components beyond the AC generator itself. For instance, a solar panel array without an integrated AC generator would not fall under this code.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 850180?

A common error is misclassifying devices that convert DC to AC but are not photovoltaic AC generators. For example, a simple DC-to-AC inverter used for converting battery power to household AC is not a photovoltaic AC generator. Another mistake is classifying solar panels that only output DC power under this subheading, rather than under 8541.40. 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.

How should importers classify products under HS 850180?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850180 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the device converts solar energy directly into alternating current. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 8501 are essential steps to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850180?

A 10 kW solar photovoltaic AC generator, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8501.80.0000. The calculation is: 2.5% of $5,000 USD = $125.00. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850180?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850180, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required, while CPTPP may necessitate a certificate of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 850171 HS 850161 HS 850131 HS 850120 HS 854320 HS 850140

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 850180 (Photovoltaic AC generators)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850180 can vary by country. For example, in the United States, the rate is often 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 2.70% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff may list a rate of 2.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. Preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements, often resulting in duty-free entry for qualifying goods from partner countries (e.g., rates listed as 'Free (A,AU,B,BH,C,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,JP,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' indicate duty-free entry for goods originating from these listed countries under specific trade agreements).

What are the classification criteria for goods under HS code 850180?

HS code 850180 specifically covers 'Other AC generators' that are photovoltaic. This means the primary function of the generator is to convert solar energy directly into alternating current (AC) electricity. The key distinguishing factor is the integration of photovoltaic cells or modules to produce AC power. Generators that produce DC power, or those that are not powered by photovoltaic conversion, would be classified under different headings. For instance, solar panels that produce DC power are typically classified under HS code 8541.40.

How is the import duty calculated for HS code 850180, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS code 850180 is typically based on the 'ad valorem' method, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of photovoltaic AC generators has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.0270 (duty rate) = $270.00. In some cases, duties might be calculated based on a combination of value and quantity (e.g., per unit), but ad valorem is most common for this classification. Always verify the specific duty calculation basis with the importing country's customs authority.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 850180?

Standard import documentation for HS code 850180 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates if applicable. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional certifications related to safety standards (e.g., CE marking in the EU, UL listing in the US) or environmental compliance might be required. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs regulations and the product's specific requirements.

Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 850180?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often leading to duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS code 850180. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which may offer preferential rates for goods originating in Canada or Mexico; the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP); and various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the EU and partner countries. The specific eligibility for preferential treatment depends on the rules of origin stipulated in each trade agreement. Importers must ensure their goods meet these rules and provide the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, to benefit from reduced or eliminated duties.