HS 850680 Other primary cells and primary batteries
Quick Answer: Other primary cells and primary batteries imported under HS 850680 enter the UK at rates including 0.00% and 4.00%, the EU at rates including 0.00% and 4.70%, and the US at rates including 2.7% and 35%, with numerous preferential duty-free rates available. This classification encompasses a wide array of non-rechargeable power sources not specifically listed elsewhere in Chapter 85, such as alkaline, zinc-carbon, lithium, and silver-oxide batteries for various consumer and industrial applications. Importers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise rates applicable to their origin country and product type, as significant variations exist. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8506800000 | — | — | — |
| 8506800500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8506808000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8506800000 | — | — | — |
| 8506800500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8506808000 | 4.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85068000 | 2.7% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 8506800090 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8506800010 | — | — | ["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 8506.80?
Imports of Other primary cells and primary batteries 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, 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 850680 cover?
This subheading covers other primary cells and primary batteries not elsewhere specified within heading 8506. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes a variety of non-rechargeable electrochemical energy storage devices. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses specialized primary batteries like those used in medical devices, military applications, or specific industrial equipment, provided they do not fit into more specific subheadings for common types like alkaline or lithium primary cells.
What falls outside HS 850680?
The following products are excluded from HS 850680: primary cells and batteries of heading 8506 that are specifically enumerated in other subheadings, such as alkaline manganese, zinc-carbon, or lithium primary cells. Also excluded are secondary (rechargeable) batteries, which are classified under HS 8507. For example, a standard AA alkaline battery would be classified under 8506.10, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for a laptop would fall under 8507.60, not 8506.80.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850680?
A common error is misclassifying specialized primary batteries that have unique chemistries or form factors but are not explicitly listed in more specific subheadings. Importers may mistakenly classify them under more general headings or even under secondary battery codes if they are unfamiliar with the detailed breakdown within heading 8506. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1, which prioritizes the Section and Chapter Notes and the headings, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 850680?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850680 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and its electrochemical characteristics. 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 cross-reference with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes. If the primary cell or battery is not specifically covered by a more precise subheading within 8506, and it is indeed a primary (non-rechargeable) cell or battery, then 8506.80 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850680?
A specific example: A batch of 1,000 specialized primary lithium thionyl chloride batteries, each weighing 0.05 kg and declared with a total customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 8506.80, the duty would be $175.00 USD ($5,000 × 0.035). This calculation is based on the declared value, as the ad valorem rate applies to the value of the goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850680?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850680, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require an origin declaration or certificate, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 850680, covering 'Other primary cells and primary batteries', in the US, EU, and UK?
Import duty rates for HS code 850680 vary by country. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 4.00% ad valorem for goods from most countries, but preferential rates may apply. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a standard rate of 3.5% ad valorem for goods not covered by preferential agreements, with potential for zero duty under specific trade agreements. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and destination at the time of import.
How is the duty for HS 850680 calculated if the duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem and the declared value of a shipment is $10,000?
The duty calculation for HS 850680, when subject to a 4.00% ad valorem rate, is based on the customs value of the goods. For a shipment with a declared value of $10,000, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. Therefore, Duty Amount = $10,000 × 4.00% = $10,000 × 0.04 = $400. This is a simplified example; actual customs value may include freight and insurance costs, and other duties or taxes may apply.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure a product is correctly classified under HS code 850680?
HS code 850680 is for 'Other primary cells and primary batteries'. This means it covers primary cells and batteries that are not specifically classified elsewhere in heading 8506 (which includes lithium batteries, zinc-carbon, alkaline manganese, silver-oxide, and mercury-oxide types). Classification hinges on the electrochemical system and the form factor. If a primary cell or battery does not fit the descriptions in subheadings 8506.10 through 8506.60, it falls under 8506.80. Importers must consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for precise definitions and examples.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 850680, and what documentation is typically required?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 850680. For example, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer reduced or zero duties between these countries. The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Japan, Canada, and South Korea that could impact duties. The UK also has FTAs post-Brexit. To claim preferential treatment, importers generally need a 'Proof of Origin' document, such as a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin on the invoice, issued by the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Always check the specific requirements of the applicable trade agreement.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond standard import documents for HS code 850680 shipments?
While standard import documentation like commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading are always required, specific requirements for HS 850680 can depend on the destination country's regulations and the type of battery. Some countries may require safety certifications or compliance with environmental regulations (e.g., related to hazardous materials or battery recycling). For instance, shipments to the EU might need to comply with directives like the Battery Directive. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to research the specific import regulations of the destination country for battery products to avoid delays or penalties.