HS 850860 Other vacuum cleaners
Quick Answer: Other vacuum cleaners imported under HS 850860 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates of Free or 35% ad valorem depending on specific product characteristics. This classification covers vacuum cleaning appliances, not specified elsewhere in Chapter 85, which are designed to collect dust and debris through suction. This includes a wide range of devices from portable handheld units to larger industrial models, excluding those with integrated floor-polishing functions or those primarily for cleaning vehicles. Importers should verify the exact duty rate applicable in the destination country, as the US rate can vary significantly. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8508600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8508600000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8508600000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 850860 cover?
This subheading covers vacuum cleaners, other than those of subheading 8508.10 (which are typically portable, hand-held, with a self-contained electric motor), that operate by suction to remove dust and debris. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category includes larger, stationary, or built-in vacuum cleaning systems, as well as those with separate power units and suction hoses, provided they are not primarily designed for hand-held use. Examples include central vacuum systems and canister vacuum cleaners with a distinct motor unit and a hose.
What falls outside HS 850860?
The following products are excluded from HS 850860: portable, hand-held vacuum cleaners with a self-contained electric motor (classified under 8508.10), industrial vacuum cleaners designed for heavy-duty commercial or factory use (often classified under Chapter 84), and air purification devices that do not primarily function as vacuum cleaners. Devices that primarily collect liquids, such as wet/dry vacuums not primarily for dry dust removal, may also fall under different classifications depending on their primary function and construction. Items like carpet sweepers or manual cleaning tools are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 850860?
A common error is misclassifying portable, hand-held vacuum cleaners with self-contained motors under 8508.60 when they should be classified under 8508.10. This often occurs when the distinction between a "hand-held" unit and a "canister" or "central" system is not clearly understood. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for the Harmonized System, mixtures or composite goods are classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character; therefore, the primary function and design of the vacuum cleaner are paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 850860?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 850860 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, functionality, and intended use, referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the vacuum cleaner is a portable, hand-held unit with a self-contained motor (8508.10) or a different type of vacuum cleaner. If it fits the description of "other vacuum cleaners" and is not specifically excluded, then 8508.60 is the appropriate code. Verification against national tariff databases is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 850860?
A Dyson V15 Detect Absolute cordless vacuum cleaner, weighing 3.08 kg and declared at a customs value of $650 USD, would typically be classified under 8508.10 as a portable, hand-held vacuum cleaner. However, if a similar canister vacuum cleaner with a separate motor unit and hose, weighing 7 kg and declared at $400 USD, were classified under 8508.60, it would attract a US duty of $20.00 (5% ad valorem × $400 USD). This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 850860?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 850860, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying products originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin (Form A) is generally required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 850860 (Other vacuum cleaners) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 850860 is 1.70% ad valorem. This means the duty is calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if vacuum cleaners valued at $10,000 are imported, the MFN duty would be $170 ($10,000 * 0.017). Preferential rates may apply under trade agreements, potentially reducing or eliminating this duty. Importers should consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) via the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website for the most current and specific rates applicable to their origin country.
How is the classification of 'Other vacuum cleaners' under HS code 850860 determined, and what distinguishes them from other vacuum cleaner categories?
HS code 850860 covers vacuum cleaners not specifically enumerated under preceding headings within Chapter 85, such as portable vacuum cleaners (HS 8508.11) or vacuum cleaner parts (HS 8508.90). Classification as 'Other' typically applies to vacuum cleaners that do not fit the specific descriptions of other subheadings, often due to unique designs, functionalities, or intended uses not covered elsewhere. For instance, specialized industrial vacuum cleaners with unique power sources or collection systems not fitting HS 8508.11 might fall here. Verification with the World Customs Organization (WCO) or national customs authorities is recommended for unique or borderline cases.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 850860?
When importing 'Other vacuum cleaners' (HS 850860), standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. Additionally, importers may need to provide product safety certifications or compliance statements to meet national standards. Always consult the specific import regulations of the destination country and your customs broker for a comprehensive checklist.
Are there common trade agreements that offer reduced or duty-free entry for 'Other vacuum cleaners' (HS 850860) into major markets like the EU or UK?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS 850860. For instance, within the European Union, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU may benefit from reduced or zero duties, provided they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective agreement. Similarly, the UK has FTAs with various countries post-Brexit, which could apply to HS 850860. Importers should consult the EU's TARIC database for specific tariff treatments applicable to goods entering the EU and the UK Trade Tariff for goods entering the UK, checking for preferential origin requirements.