HS 851511 Brazing or soldering machines and apparatus
Quick Answer: Brazing or soldering machines and apparatus imported under HS 851511 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at 2.5% (with numerous preferential rates, including free entry for certain trade partners). This classification covers both manual and automatic machines and apparatus designed for joining metal components using filler metals that melt at temperatures below 450°C (brazing) or below 427°C (soldering). Key trade considerations include verifying specific preferential duty rates for the US market and ensuring the apparatus is solely designed for brazing or soldering, not general welding. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8515110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8515110000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8515110000 | 2.5% | Free (17 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 8515.11?
Imports of Brazing or soldering machines and apparatus 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 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 851511 cover?
This subheading covers machines and apparatus specifically designed for brazing or soldering, which are processes used to join metals by melting a filler metal (solder or brazing alloy) that has a lower melting point than the base metals. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes both hand-held soldering irons and more complex, automated brazing and soldering machines. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to equipment where the primary function is the application of heat to melt filler material for joining. For example, a benchtop soldering station with a temperature-controlled iron and fume extractor would fall here.
What falls outside HS 851511?
The following products are excluded from HS 851511: welding machines and apparatus (HS 8515), which use heat to fuse base metals directly, often with or without filler material, and typically at higher temperatures than brazing or soldering. Also excluded are machines for the surface treatment of metals (Chapter 84) or electrical heating apparatus not specifically for joining metals, such as induction heating equipment primarily for heat treatment rather than joining. For instance, a plasma welding torch (HS 8515) or an industrial oven for annealing metal parts (HS 8419) would not be classified under 851511.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 851511?
A common error is misclassifying welding equipment under HS 851511, failing to distinguish between the distinct metallurgical processes of welding and brazing/soldering. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify multi-functional machines where brazing or soldering is only a secondary function, or fail to consider if the apparatus is specifically designed for these joining processes. For example, a general-purpose heat gun used for various tasks, including some soldering, might be classified elsewhere if its primary design is not for brazing or soldering.
How should importers classify products under HS 851511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851511 involves a thorough examination of the machine's design, intended use, and operational principles. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU's TARIC database, and refer to the WCO Explanatory Notes for HS Heading 8515. Key considerations include whether the apparatus uses filler metal with a melting point below that of the base metals and whether its primary function is brazing or soldering. A detailed product brochure or technical specification sheet is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851511?
A "Soldering Station with Temperature Control" weighing 2.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $10.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8515.11. The calculation is: 7.0% × $150 USD = $10.50. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements or special trade programs.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A certificate for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 851511 (Brazing or soldering machines and apparatus)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 851511 can vary. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the general rate is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, goods from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free (Free). Always consult the latest USHTS or relevant national tariff schedule for the most current rates applicable to your specific import.
How is the import duty for HS 851511 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 851511 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 brazing machine valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. and is subject to the general MFN duty rate of 2.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270.00. If the apparatus is subject to a specific duty (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be Rate per Unit × Number of Units.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 851511?
HS code 851511 covers machines and apparatus specifically designed for brazing or soldering, which involve joining metals using a filler metal that melts at a lower temperature than the base metals. This includes both hand-held soldering irons and more complex automated or semi-automated brazing or soldering machines. The apparatus must be capable of generating the heat required for melting the filler material, whether through electrical resistance, induction, gas flame, or other means. Exclusions typically include simple soldering tools not designed for industrial application or machines classified under other headings (e.g., welding apparatus).
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 851511 into the United States?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 851511 into the United States. These include agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG), among others listed with 'Free' access under the USHTS. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates.
What documentation is typically required when importing machines and apparatus under HS code 851511?
When importing machines and apparatus under HS code 851511, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under applicable trade agreements. Depending on the specific type of machine and its intended use, additional documentation such as manufacturer's specifications, safety certifications (e.g., CE marking for EU imports), or import licenses might be requested by customs authorities. It is advisable to verify specific requirements with the importing country's customs agency.