HS 850220 Generating sets with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines
Quick Answer: Generating sets with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines imported under HS 850220 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from 2% to 35% ad valorem, with some countries receiving duty-free entry. This HS code specifically covers portable or stationary electrical generating sets powered by gasoline or other spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on the country of origin, particularly for US imports. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific tariff lines for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502200000 | — | — | — |
| 8502202000 | — | — | — |
| 8502202010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502202090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502204000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502200000 | — | — | — |
| 8502202000 | — | — | — |
| 8502202010 | — | — | — |
| 8502202090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8502204000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502200030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8502200070 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 85022000 | 2% | Free (20 programs) | — |
| 8502200060 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8502200085 | — | — | ["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 8502.20?
Imports of Generating sets with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines 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 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 850220 cover?
This subheading covers generating sets where the primary source of electrical power is a spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are self-contained units designed to produce electricity, typically for portable or backup power applications. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to complete generating sets, including the engine, generator, and associated control equipment, provided the engine is of the spark-ignition type, such as gasoline or gas-powered engines.
What falls outside HS 850220?
The following products are excluded from HS 850220: generating sets powered by compression-ignition internal combustion piston engines (diesel engines), which are classified under HS 850211 or 850212. Also excluded are standalone engines (HS Chapter 84), standalone generators (HS 8501), and electrical apparatus for the transmission or distribution of electricity (HS Chapter 85, other headings). For example, a portable gasoline engine without a generator would not fall under this code, nor would a large industrial diesel generator set exceeding 750 kVA.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850220?
A common error is misidentifying the type of internal combustion engine powering the generating set. Importers may mistakenly classify diesel-powered generating sets under this subheading, when they should be classified under HS 850211 (if not exceeding 750 kVA) or 850212 (if exceeding 750 kVA). This error often arises from overlooking the specific engine type requirement outlined in 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.
How should importers classify products under HS 850220?
The correct procedure for classifying generating sets under HS 850220 involves a two-step process: first, confirm that the unit is a complete generating set designed to produce electricity. Second, verify that the prime mover is a spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine, such as a gasoline or gas engine. If both conditions are met, HS 850220 is the appropriate classification. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific country's tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, for any further subdivisions or specific notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850220?
A Honda EU2200i portable gasoline generator, declared at a customs value of $1,000 USD and weighing 47 lbs, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 850220. The calculation is: 5% of $1,000 USD = $50.00. Note that specific country of origin and trade agreements can alter this rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850220, 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 Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require 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?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850220 (Generating sets with spark-ignition internal combustion piston engines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850220 is generally 2.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For example, under the USMCA, goods may qualify for 0.00% duty. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the specific rate applicable to the country of origin. The EU TARIC and UK Trade Tariff will show different rates for those jurisdictions.
How is the import duty for HS code 850220 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 850220 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a generating set valued at $5,000 is imported into the U.S. and the applicable MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the duty would be calculated as: $5,000 (Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $135.00 (Duty Amount). Always ensure the declared value is the customs value, which includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of entry.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 850220?
HS code 850220 specifically covers generating sets where the prime mover is a spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine. This means the engine uses a spark plug to ignite the fuel-air mixture, distinguishing it from compression-ignition (diesel) engines (which fall under 850210). The set must include both the engine and the generator (alternator) coupled together to produce electrical energy. Portable generators powered by gasoline engines are commonly classified here.
What documentation is typically required for importing generating sets classified under HS code 850220?
Standard import documentation for HS code 850220 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 country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any specific safety or emissions certifications mandated by the importing country, such as EPA compliance for engines in the United States.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 850220?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 850220. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer duty-free entry if the generating sets meet the rules of origin. Other agreements, such as those with Australia (AU), Japan (JP), South Korea (KR), and various other countries listed with 'Free' rates in the HTSUS (e.g., CL, IL, SG), could also result in zero or reduced duties. For imports into the EU or UK, specific agreements with third countries will dictate preferential rates under their respective tariff systems (TARIC and UK Trade Tariff).