HS 850710 Lead-acid, of a kind used for starting piston engines
Quick Answer: Lead-acid batteries of a kind used for starting piston engines, classified under HS code 850710, enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.70%, and the US at 3.5% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers rechargeable batteries designed to provide the initial electrical power to start internal combustion engines in vehicles and other machinery. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on preferential trade agreements, particularly in the US market where certain countries benefit from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8507100000 | — | — | — |
| 8507102010 | — | — | — |
| 8507102090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8507108000 | — | — | — |
| 8507108010 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8507100000 | — | — | — |
| 8507102000 | — | — | — |
| 8507102010 | — | — | — |
| 8507102090 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8507108000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8507100030 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 8507100090 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 85071000 | 3.5% | Free (19 programs) | — |
| 8507100060 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
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 8507.10?
Imports of Lead-acid, of a kind used for starting 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 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 850710 cover?
This subheading covers lead-acid electric accumulators, specifically those designed and intended for starting internal combustion piston engines, such as those found in automobiles, motorcycles, and other vehicles. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses batteries that provide the initial electrical surge to crank the engine. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the primary function of engine starting.
What falls outside HS 850710?
The following products are excluded from HS 850710: lead-acid batteries intended for other applications, such as stationary power storage (e.g., for uninterruptible power supplies or solar energy systems), traction batteries for electric vehicles, or those used in portable electronic devices. For instance, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries for RVs or marine applications would be classified under a different subheading, typically 8507.20, and smaller sealed lead-acid batteries for toys or emergency lighting would also fall elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850710?
A common error is misinterpreting the intended use of the lead-acid battery. General-purpose lead-acid batteries, even if they could technically start an engine, are not classified here if their primary design is for other purposes, such as deep cycling. Furthermore, confusion can arise with other types of batteries, such as nickel-cadmium or lithium-ion batteries, which are explicitly excluded from heading 8507 and classified under different HS codes. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 850710?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850710 involves a thorough examination of the battery's specifications and intended application. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the battery is indeed a lead-acid type and that its primary design purpose is for starting piston engines. Consulting product literature, manufacturer specifications, and the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850710?
A 12-volt, 70 Ah (Ampere-hour) automotive lead-acid battery, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $5.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is $50 USD (declared value) × 0.10 (10% MFN duty rate) = $5.00 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8507.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850710?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850710, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating lead-acid batteries from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, preferential rates may be available for originating goods from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) in various jurisdictions, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850710 (lead-acid batteries for starting piston engines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850710 can vary by country. For example, the United States applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty. The European Union's TARIC system may show rates around 2.00% ad valorem, while the UK Trade Tariff might list rates of 3.70% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for HS 850710 calculated? Can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 850710 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of lead-acid batteries under HS 850710 has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 3.5%, the import duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the applicable duty calculation method.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 850710?
HS code 850710 specifically covers 'Lead-acid, of a kind used for starting piston engines'. The primary classification criteria are: 1. Chemistry: The battery must be of the lead-acid type. 2. Application: It must be designed and intended for starting internal combustion piston engines, such as those found in vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles). Batteries for other applications, like deep-cycle batteries for solar power or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), would fall under different HS codes.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 850710?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential (often reduced or free) duty rates for HS code 850710. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), batteries meeting the rules of origin may qualify for preferential treatment. Many other bilateral and multilateral trade agreements offer reduced tariffs for goods originating from partner countries. Importers should consult the preferential tariff schedules of their destination country and verify the rules of origin to determine eligibility for preferential rates, which can significantly reduce landed costs.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 850710?
Standard import documentation for HS 850710 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, or specific safety and environmental compliance certificates (e.g., related to hazardous materials handling or battery recycling regulations). Always check the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs authority.