HS 850240 Electric rotary converters
Quick Answer: Electric rotary converters imported under HS 850240 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at 3% (MFN). This code covers static converters that change electrical energy from one form to another, specifically those that are rotary in nature. Importers should note that while the UK offers duty-free entry, the US has a higher Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting potential cost differences across jurisdictions for businesses engaged in international trade of these electrical components.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502400010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8502400000 | — | — | — |
| 8502400090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502400000 | — | — | — |
| 8502400010 | — | — | — |
| 8502400090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8502400000 | 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 8502.40?
Imports of Electric rotary converters 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 850240 cover?
This subheading covers electric rotary converters, which are machines that convert electrical energy from one form to another by means of a rotating electric machine. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, these devices typically involve a motor driving a generator or vice versa to change voltage, frequency, or phase. They are distinct from static converters.
What falls outside HS 850240?
The following products are excluded from HS 850240: static converters (such as rectifiers, inverters, and frequency changers that do not use a rotating electric machine), which are classified under other headings in Chapter 85. Also excluded are electric motors and generators when imported separately, as well as complete electrical sets or units where the rotary converter is merely an accessory to a larger machine and not the primary function. For example, a motor-generator set used solely for a specific industrial process might be classified with that process equipment.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850240?
A common error is misclassifying static converters as rotary converters, or vice versa, failing to recognize the defining characteristic of a rotating electric machine. This often stems from a misunderstanding of the "rotary" aspect. Additionally, importers may incorrectly classify combined motor-generator units that are integral parts of other machinery under this heading, rather than with the principal machine, contrary to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 850240?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850240 involves a thorough examination of the product's design and function. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain if the device utilizes a rotating electric machine for the conversion of electrical energy. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff) is crucial. If the product is a static converter, it will be classified elsewhere.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850240?
A 50 kW three-phase to single-phase rotary converter weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $750.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.05 = $750.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850240?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850240, 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, requiring a self-certified origin statement. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries, necessitating a GSP Form A. For goods originating in the UK, the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted and applicable) or existing preferential arrangements could lead to reduced duties, potentially requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850240 (Electric rotary converters)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850240, 'Electric rotary converters', can vary by country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% MFN duty rate. The European Union, under TARIC, may have rates such as 2.70% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for an electric rotary converter calculated under HS 850240?
Import duty is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods (ad valorem duty) or based on a specific rate per unit (specific duty), or a combination. For an ad valorem rate, if an electric rotary converter is valued at $10,000 and the duty rate is 3%, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.03 = $300. Always verify if the duty is ad valorem, specific, or a compound rate for the destination country.
What are the classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 850240?
HS code 850240 covers 'Electric rotary converters'. This classification applies to machines and apparatus which convert electrical energy by means of a rotating electric motor and a rotating generator or alternator. Key criteria include the presence of both an electric motor and an electric generator/alternator within the same unit, designed to convert electrical energy from one form to another through mechanical rotation. Exclusions typically include static converters (covered elsewhere).
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for electric rotary converters (HS 850240)?
Many trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 850240. For instance, the United States offers duty-free entry (0.00%) for eligible originating goods from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Mexico (MX), and South Korea (KR) under various free trade agreements. The EU and UK also have preferential rates with partner countries. Importers must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin for the specific trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required when importing electric rotary converters under HS code 850240?
Standard import documentation for HS 850240 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 importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Technical specifications or datasheets might also be requested by customs authorities to verify the classification.