HS 851140 Starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators

Quick Answer: Starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators imported under HS 851140 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.20%, and the US at 2.5% (MFN). This classification covers electrical motors designed to crank internal combustion engines, as well as units that can both start an engine and generate electricity. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates in the US for goods originating from specific Free Trade Agreement partner countries, as indicated by CustomTariffs data. Exporters should ensure accurate product descriptions to avoid misclassification.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511400090 2.00 % — —
8511400000 — — —
8511400010 — — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511400000 — — —
8511400010 — — —
8511400090 3.20 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8511400000 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 8511.40?

Imports of Starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators 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 17 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 851140 cover?

This subheading covers starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are electrical machines designed to initiate the operation of an internal combustion engine, typically by engaging a flywheel, or to perform both starting and generating functions. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes devices that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy for engine cranking, and in dual-purpose units, also convert mechanical energy into electrical energy for charging batteries or powering vehicle systems.

What falls outside HS 851140?

The following products are excluded from HS 851140: general-purpose electric motors not specifically designed for starting internal combustion engines, electric generators that do not also function as starter motors, and components of starter motors such as solenoids or starter drive gears when imported separately. For instance, a standalone electric motor for an industrial application, or a separate alternator for a vehicle, would be classified under different headings within Chapter 85, not under this specific subheading for starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851140?

A common error is misclassifying integrated starter-generator units that are part of a more complex hybrid or electric vehicle powertrain system. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods are classified according to the essential character they impart. If a unit's primary function is not solely starting or dual-purpose starting-generating for an internal combustion engine, but rather a more integrated propulsion or power management role within a hybrid system, it may fall under a different heading, such as 8708 for parts and accessories of vehicles.

How should importers classify products under HS 851140?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851140 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, as well as specific national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Verify that the product is indeed an electric motor designed to start an internal combustion engine or a dual-purpose starter-generator. If the product is a component, ensure it is not separately classified elsewhere. Always refer to the most current version of the applicable tariff schedule.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851140?

A Bosch SR0457X starter motor weighing 5.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($150 USD × 10% = $15.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8511.40.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851140?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851140, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible starter motors originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported into the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), where applicable, requiring a GSP Form A. For EU-UK trade, the Trade and Cooperation Agreement allows for duty-free movement of goods meeting rules of origin, typically requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 851120 HS 850140 HS 851130 HS 851110 HS 851150 HS 850110

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

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 851140 (Starter motors and dual purpose starter-generators) into the United States?

The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 851140 into the United States is 2.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU) may be eligible for a Free rate. It is crucial to verify the specific country of origin and consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and accurate tariff information, including any specific product exclusions or requirements.

How is the import duty for HS 851140 calculated for a shipment to the US?

Import duty for HS code 851140 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 starter motors valued at $10,000 USD arrives in the US and the applicable duty rate is 2.5% ad valorem, the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.025 (Duty Rate) = $250.00 (Duty Amount). Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.

What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 851140?

HS code 851140 covers electric motors of a kind used as starters for internal combustion engines, as well as dual purpose starter-generators. The primary classification criterion is the function of the electric motor. It must be designed and primarily intended for starting an internal combustion engine. Dual purpose starter-generators are units that can perform both starting and generating functions. If an electric motor is not designed for this specific purpose, it would be classified under a different HS code, such as those for general-purpose electric motors (Chapter 85, heading 8501).

What documentation is typically required for importing starter motors (HS 851140) into the European Union?

When importing goods classified under HS code 851140 into the European Union, importers and customs brokers must ensure the submission of accurate documentation to customs authorities. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Depending on the specific member state and the nature of the goods, additional certifications or compliance documents related to safety standards (e.g., CE marking) might be necessary. Consulting the EU's TARIC database is essential for specific import requirements and duty rates.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 851140 into the UK?

The United Kingdom offers preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 851140 originating from countries with which it has trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Australia (AU) are listed with a Free duty rate. Other agreements may provide reduced rates. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates. The UK Trade Tariff is the official source for confirming applicable rates and agreement details.