HS 851220 Other lighting or visual signalling equipment
Quick Answer: Other lighting or visual signalling equipment imported under HS 851220 enters the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This classification encompasses a broad category of lighting and signalling devices not specifically covered elsewhere in Chapter 85, such as vehicle lights (excluding headlights and taillights), emergency beacons, and portable work lights. Importers should carefully review the specific subheadings within 851220 for precise duty rates and potential trade restrictions, as variations exist across jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate declaration and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8512200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8512200025 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8512200035 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8512200060 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8512200070 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8512200000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8512200025 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8512200035 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8512200060 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8512200070 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85122020 | Free | — | — |
| 8512202080 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8512204080 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 851220 | — | — | — |
| 8512202040 | — | — | ["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 8512.20?
Imports of Other lighting or visual signalling equipment 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 15 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 851220 cover?
This subheading covers other lighting or visual signalling equipment not specified in preceding subheadings of heading 8512. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes items such as flashing beacons, warning lights, and other signalling devices used for visibility and safety purposes, typically powered by electricity, and not primarily designed for general illumination. Examples include emergency vehicle lights and industrial signalling lamps.
What falls outside HS 851220?
The following products are excluded from HS 851220: lighting equipment for bicycles (HS 851210), lighting equipment for motor vehicles (HS 851231), and visual signalling apparatus for bicycles (HS 851239). Also excluded are general lighting fixtures like household lamps or industrial floodlights, which are classified under Chapter 94. Devices that are primarily for illumination rather than signalling, even if they flash, are typically classified elsewhere based on their primary function and design.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 851220?
A common error is misclassifying general lighting fixtures or bicycle-specific lighting under this subheading. For instance, a simple LED flashlight intended for personal use would not fall under 851220, but rather under HS 8513. Similarly, if a visual signalling device is an integral part of a motor vehicle's lighting system, it would be classified under HS 851231. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial for accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 851220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851220 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the specific product and its primary function. Then, they should consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the relevant national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to determine if the product fits the description of 851220 or a more specific subheading. If the product has multiple functions, the principle of essential character or primary use, as per GRI 3, should be applied.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851220?
A set of 10 LED emergency warning strobe lights, weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD, would attract a US duty of $7.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5% of $150 = $7.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically under subheading 851220. Note that specific product details and origin can influence the final duty rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851220, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free rates for goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 851220, covering 'Other lighting or visual signalling equipment'?
Import duty rates for HS code 851220 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under TARIC, rates can range from 0% to 4.7% ad valorem depending on the specific product and origin. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varied rates, often around 2.7% ad valorem for many items in this category. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your goods.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 851220, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 851220 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of LED signal lights classified under 851220 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.5% (like the US MFN rate), the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.025 = $250. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per unit), or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to verify the duty calculation method in the destination country's tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 851220?
HS code 851220 covers 'Other lighting or visual signalling equipment' not specifically covered elsewhere in Chapter 85. Key criteria include: the equipment must be designed for lighting (e.g., lamps, light fixtures) or visual signalling (e.g., warning lights, indicators), and it must be electrically operated. It excludes items like photographic lighting apparatus (8539), lighting equipment for vehicles (often classified under specific vehicle headings), or simple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) themselves if not part of a complete lighting or signalling apparatus. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on the scope of this heading.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 851220 under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 851220 are often available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant FTA (e.g., USMCA, EU FTAs, UK FTAs). Proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration on the invoice, is typically required to claim preferential treatment. Consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs authority for eligibility and documentation requirements.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 851220?
Standard import documentation for HS code 851220 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the 'lighting or visual signalling equipment,' additional documents may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates), product safety certifications (e.g., CE marking for the EU, FCC for the US, UKCA for the UK), or specific import licenses. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to verify the exact documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country prior to shipment.