HS 851120 Ignition magnetos; magneto-dynamos; magnetic flywheels

Quick Answer: Ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos, and magnetic flywheels imported under HS 851120 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.20%, and the US at 2.5% (MFN). This classification covers essential components for internal combustion engines, specifically those that generate the electrical spark for ignition. Magnetos are self-contained generators, while magneto-dynamos combine magneto generation with dynamo output. Magnetic flywheels are used in conjunction with these systems for timing and energy storage. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates in the US for specific trading partners, as detailed on CustomTariffs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511200010 — — —
8511200000 — — —
8511200090 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511200000 — — —
8511200010 — — —
8511200090 3.20 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511200000 2.5% 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 8511.20?

Imports of Ignition magnetos; magneto-dynamos; magnetic flywheels 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?

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What products does HS 851120 cover?

This subheading covers ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos, and magnetic flywheels, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. These components are primarily used in internal combustion engines to generate the electrical spark required for ignition. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this category includes devices that produce a high-voltage electrical current for ignition systems, often found in automotive, marine, and small engine applications.

What falls outside HS 851120?

The following products are excluded from HS 851120: complete ignition systems, spark plugs (classified under HS 8511.10), distributors (often classified under HS 8511.40), and other electrical engine components not specifically designed for ignition generation. For instance, alternators for charging batteries (HS 8511.90) or starter motors (HS 8511.40) are distinct from magnetos and magnetic flywheels intended solely for ignition purposes, and thus fall under different HS codes.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851120?

A common error is misclassifying integrated ignition modules that combine magneto functions with other electronic control units. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, when goods are classifiable under two or more headings or subheadings, the heading or subheading that gives the most specific description shall be selected. If no such heading or subheading can be determined, the goods shall be classified as provided for in the heading or subheading which occurs latest in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration.

How should importers classify products under HS 851120?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851120 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and construction. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the EU's TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff. Verify that the item is indeed a magneto, magneto-dynamo, or magnetic flywheel specifically designed for ignition generation, and not a component of a larger assembly or a different electrical engine part.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851120?

A specific magneto-dynamo for a vintage motorcycle weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $250 USD would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $250 USD = $12.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8511.20.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851120?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851120, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a 0% 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 USMCA certificate of origin, is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and originating country.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 851130 HS 851110 HS 850511 HS 851140 HS 851150 HS 850520

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 851120 (Ignition magnetos; magneto-dynamos; magnetic flywheels) into the United States?

For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 851120 is 2.5% ad valorem. Preferential duty rates may apply for goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, goods may enter duty-free. Always verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement for the most accurate duty assessment. The duty is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods.

How is the import duty for HS code 851120 calculated with a concrete example?

The import duty for HS code 851120 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of ignition magnetos (HS 851120) has a declared customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 2.5%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.025 = $250. If the item is subject to a specific duty (per unit), the calculation would be Rate per Unit * Number of Units.

What are the key classification criteria for HS code 851120?

HS code 851120 covers 'Ignition magnetos; magneto-dynamos; magnetic flywheels'. The key classification criteria revolve around the primary function of the component. Ignition magnetos are devices that generate electrical current for ignition systems, typically in internal combustion engines. Magneto-dynamos combine the functions of a magneto and a dynamo. Magnetic flywheels are specifically designed flywheels that incorporate magnetic elements for ignition or energy generation purposes. Components that do not primarily serve these ignition or energy generation functions, even if they contain magnetic elements, may be classified elsewhere.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 851120?

When importing goods under HS code 851120, 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. Crucially, for preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin on the invoice, compliant with the specific Free Trade Agreement (FTA) requirements, is essential. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product literature if requested by customs authorities to verify classification.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 851120 into the United States?

Several common trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for HS code 851120 into the United States. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU) under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement may be eligible for duty-free entry. Similarly, agreements with countries like Canada (C) and Mexico (under USMCA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) often provide reduced or zero duty rates, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in each respective agreement. Always consult the specific text of the relevant trade agreement and ensure compliance with its origin rules.