HS 850520 Electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes
Quick Answer: Electromagnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes imported under HS 850520 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.20% ad valorem, and the US at 3.1% ad valorem (MFN). This classification covers devices that use electromagnetism to engage or disengage mechanical power transmission, essential in automotive, industrial machinery, and robotics. Importers should note the varying tariff rates across major markets, as detailed by CustomTariffs. For the US, preferential duty rates may apply for goods originating from specific Free Trade Agreement partner countries. Exporters and customs brokers must ensure accurate product descriptions to align with the specific subheadings within this code for correct duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8505200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8505200030 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8505200010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8505200040 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8505200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8505200000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8505200010 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8505200030 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8505200040 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8505200090 | 2.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8505200000 | 3.1% | Free (18 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 8505.20?
Imports of Electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes 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 15 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 850520 cover?
This subheading covers electromagnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These devices utilize electromagnetic principles to engage, disengage, or stop the rotation of machinery. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this category includes components designed to transmit or control torque through magnetic fields, often found in automotive, industrial machinery, and robotics applications.
What falls outside HS 850520?
The following products are excluded from HS 850520: purely mechanical couplings, clutches, and brakes that do not rely on electromagnetic actuation. This includes friction-based clutches, hydraulic brakes, and positive mechanical couplings. Additionally, electromagnetic components that are integral parts of other finished goods, such as the electromagnetic actuator within a solenoid valve or a starter motor, are typically classified with the finished product rather than under this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850520?
A common error is misclassifying electromagnetic actuators that are not standalone couplings, clutches, or brakes. For instance, an electromagnetic coil intended solely to activate a hydraulic or pneumatic system might be mistakenly classified here. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the electromagnetic component is merely an accessory to another primary function, it should be classified accordingly.
How should importers classify products under HS 850520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850520 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and operating principle. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Explanatory Notes of the WCO. They should verify that the product operates via electromagnetic force to couple, clutch, or brake, and is not a component of a more complex machine.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850520?
A 10 kW industrial electromagnetic clutch, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 5.0% × $5,000 USD = $250.00. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850520?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850520, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates. To claim these preferences, a valid origin declaration or certificate, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin, is typically required.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850520 (Electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850520 in the United States is 3.1% ad valorem. For the European Union, the TARIC code often defaults to 2.2% ad valorem. In the United Kingdom, the duty rate is also 2.2% ad valorem. These rates can be significantly reduced or eliminated under various preferential trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, EU, or UK may benefit from preferential rates, such as 'Free' for certain partner countries.
How is the import duty for HS code 850520 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 850520 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if electromagnetic brakes valued at $10,000 are imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate of 3.1% applies, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.031 (Duty Rate) = $310.00. Always ensure the customs value is correctly declared according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 850520?
HS code 850520 covers electromagnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes. The primary classification criterion is the use of electromagnetic force to engage or disengage mechanical power transmission. Electromagnetic couplings transmit rotational power, while clutches and brakes use electromagnetic principles to connect/disconnect shafts or halt rotation, respectively. Goods must be designed for this specific function; simple magnets or solenoids not integrated into a coupling, clutch, or brake mechanism would be classified elsewhere.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 850520?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 850520. For imports into the United States, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer duty-free entry for qualifying goods. For the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or Canada often provide reduced or zero duty rates. The UK also has numerous FTAs post-Brexit that can impact duties. Importers must verify the specific origin of the goods and the terms of the applicable trade agreement, including rules of origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 850520?
Standard import documentation is required for HS code 850520, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must provide a detailed description of the goods, specifying whether they are couplings, clutches, or brakes, and their electromagnetic operating principle. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a certificate of origin or a declaration of origin compliant with the specific agreement's requirements is mandatory. Compliance with any applicable product-specific regulations or standards (e.g., electrical safety) in the importing country is also essential.