HS 850213 Of an output exceeding 375 kVA
Quick Answer: Generators of an output exceeding 375 kVA imported under HS 850213 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem depending on the country of origin. This classification specifically pertains to generating sets with a power output greater than 375 kilovolt-amperes, typically large industrial or commercial units. Importers and customs brokers should be aware of the significant duty variations, particularly the preferential rates available in the US for goods from specific trade partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of origin verification for duty optimization.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502134010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502134090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502138000 | — | — | — |
| 8502138010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502138090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502134000 | — | — | — |
| 8502134010 | — | — | — |
| 8502134090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8502132090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8502130000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85021300 | 2% | Free (19 programs) | — |
| 8502130040 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8502130020 | — | — | ["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 8502.13?
Imports of Of an output exceeding 375 kVA 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 850213 cover?
This subheading covers generating sets, specifically those with an electrical output exceeding 375 kVA. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes diesel, petrol, or other engine-driven generators designed for substantial power generation. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the defining characteristic is the rated output capacity, placing larger industrial and commercial power generation units within this classification.
What falls outside HS 850213?
The following products are excluded from HS 850213: generating sets with an output of 375 kVA or less, which are classified under HS 850212. Also excluded are portable generators primarily for recreational use or small-scale emergency backup, and standalone engines or alternators not assembled as a generating set. For instance, a 300 kVA generator would fall under HS 850212, and a separate 500 kVA alternator would be classified elsewhere based on its individual components.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850213?
A common error is misinterpreting the "output" specification, leading to incorrect classification based on engine size rather than the generator's electrical output in kVA. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify units with multiple engines or complex control systems under this subheading without considering if they constitute a single generating set as defined by the HS.
How should importers classify products under HS 850213?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850213 involves verifying the rated electrical output of the generating set in kVA. Importers and customs brokers must consult the manufacturer's specifications and technical documentation to confirm this critical parameter. If the output consistently exceeds 375 kVA, then HS 850213 is the appropriate classification. It is crucial to ensure the unit is a complete generating set, comprising an engine and an alternator integrated for power production.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850213?
A 500 kVA diesel generating set, declared at a customs value of $45,000 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $0. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 0% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 850213. Therefore, the total duty amount is $0 (0% × $45,000). It is essential to check the specific tariff schedule for the importing country, as rates can vary significantly.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850213?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850213, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for goods from member countries like Vietnam. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for other agreements, depending on the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850213, specifically for generators with an output exceeding 375 kVA?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850213, covering generators of an output exceeding 375 kVA, is often 2.70% in many jurisdictions like the United States. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate this duty. For instance, under certain agreements, the rate might be Free (0.00%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), or South Korea (KR), depending on the specific treaty and rules of origin. Always verify the applicable rate based on the country of origin and the specific trade agreement in force.
How is the import duty for HS code 850213 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 850213 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and an importer brings in a generator valued at $100,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $100,000 (Value) × 2.70% (Duty Rate) = $2,700 USD. If a preferential rate of Free (0.00%) applies due to a trade agreement, the duty would be $0 USD. Ensure accurate valuation and correct application of the duty rate based on origin.
What specific criteria must a generator meet to be classified under HS code 850213 (output exceeding 375 kVA)?
To be classified under HS code 850213, the primary classification criterion is the continuous power output rating of the generating set. This code specifically applies to self-contained electric generating sets where the output capacity exceeds 375 kVA (kilovolt-amperes). The kVA rating is a measure of apparent power, which is the total power delivered by the generator. Importers must ensure the technical specifications of the generator clearly state an output exceeding this threshold. If the output is 375 kVA or less, it would fall under a different subheading.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 850213?
When importing generators under HS code 850213, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a certificate of origin is often necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Technical specifications or a manufacturer's declaration detailing the generator's output capacity (exceeding 375 kVA) may also be requested by customs authorities to verify classification. Depending on the destination country, safety certifications or compliance documents might also be needed.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 850213, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 850213. For example, agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the EU and partner countries often include provisions for reduced or zero duties on such goods. To benefit, importers must ensure the generators originate from a qualifying country under the specific agreement and that they possess a valid Certificate of Origin. This certificate, along with adherence to the agreement's rules of origin, is essential for claiming the reduced duty rates and avoiding the standard MFN tariff.