HS 851633 Hand-drying apparatus
Quick Answer: Hand-drying apparatus imported under HS 851633 enters the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at Free (MFN) or 35% (Section 301). This HS code covers electrical appliances designed to dry hands, commonly found in public restrooms, such as automatic hand dryers. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate differential in the United States, with the 35% rate potentially applying to goods originating from China due to Section 301 tariffs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the specific origin and applicable duty for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8516330000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8516330000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8516330000 | 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 851633 cover?
This subheading covers hand-drying apparatus, specifically electric appliances designed for drying hands. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these devices typically operate by blowing heated or unheated air. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes devices commonly found in public restrooms, such as automatic or manually operated hand dryers.
What falls outside HS 851633?
The following products are excluded from HS 851633: general-purpose hair dryers (classified under 851631), electric heating apparatus for rooms (851629), and industrial drying machinery. Devices that do not primarily function as hand dryers, even if they produce air, such as portable fans or specialized industrial drying equipment, are classified elsewhere. For instance, a small personal fan is not a hand-drying apparatus.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 851633?
A common error is misclassifying devices that have a secondary drying function but are primarily designed for another purpose, or confusing hand dryers with hair dryers. For example, some industrial blowers might be mistakenly entered under 851633. Adherence to Section XVI, Note 1(c) of the Harmonized System, which excludes machines for treating materials by a process involving the change of temperature, is crucial, though hand dryers are generally considered appliances rather than industrial machinery.
How should importers classify products under HS 851633?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851633 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and design. Importers and customs brokers must consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Confirming that the appliance is specifically designed for the purpose of drying hands using air is paramount for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851633?
A commercial electric hand dryer weighing 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 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($150 USD × 0.05 = $7.50). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851633?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851633, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating hand dryers from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration on the invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required. Other agreements may offer reduced rates depending on the country of origin and specific product rules of origin.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 851633, 'hand-drying apparatus'?
Import duty rates for HS code 851633, 'hand-drying apparatus', vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.70% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be as low as Free for goods originating from certain countries with preferential trade agreements, or it may be subject to standard tariffs. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often free for goods from countries with which the UK has trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country at the time of importation for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for hand-drying apparatus (HS 851633) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 851633 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of hand-drying apparatus has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.70% (like the US MFN rate), the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or unit, but ad valorem is most common for this category. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 851633?
HS code 851633 specifically covers 'hand-drying apparatus'. The primary classification criterion is the function of the apparatus: its purpose must be to dry hands using heated air. Items that are general-purpose blowers or dryers not exclusively designed for hands would likely fall under different HS codes. For example, hair dryers (HS 851631) are classified separately. The apparatus must be designed for use in public facilities or commercial settings, typically activated by a sensor or a push button. Consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for hand-drying apparatus (HS 851633)?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing them to Free or a minimal percentage, for goods classified under HS 851633. For imports into the United States, preferential rates may apply under agreements like the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) if the goods meet the rules of origin. In the European Union, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide can grant preferential access. Similarly, the UK has FTAs that may offer reduced duties. Importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment under these agreements.
What documentation is typically required when importing hand-drying apparatus under HS code 851633?
Standard import documentation for HS code 851633 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and any preferential claims, a Certificate of Origin may be required to substantiate eligibility for reduced or free trade agreement duties. Some countries may also require product-specific declarations or certifications related to electrical safety standards or conformity assessments. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to verify specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country before shipment.