HS 851640 Electric smoothing irons

Quick Answer: Electric smoothing irons imported under HS 851640 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US with varied rates including free, 35%, and 2.8% under the MFN rate. This HS code specifically covers electric smoothing irons, commonly known as electric irons, used for pressing and smoothing clothes. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities, particularly the high 35% rate in the US for certain types, which can impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific subheadings for accurate tariff application.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8516400000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8516400000 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8516402000 Free — ["No."]
851640 — — —
8516404000 2.8% 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 8516.40?

Imports of Electric smoothing irons 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 14 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 851640 cover?

This subheading covers electric smoothing irons, also known as electric flat irons, designed for domestic or professional use to press and smooth fabrics using heat and steam. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes irons with or without steam-generating capabilities. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are typically handheld appliances with a heated soleplate and a handle, intended for ironing clothing and other textiles.

What falls outside HS 851640?

The following products are excluded from HS 851640: steam generators that are not integrated into an electric smoothing iron, such as standalone steam generators for garment steamers or industrial pressing machines. Also excluded are electric pressing machines for industrial use that are not handheld smoothing irons, and electric heating pads or blankets. For instance, a large industrial steam press would be classified under a different heading, and a simple electric heating element without the specific design of a smoothing iron would also fall outside this scope.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851640?

A common error is misclassifying steam generators that are separate from the iron itself. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for the interpretation of the Harmonized System, goods composed of different materials or made up of different components are to be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Therefore, a standalone steam generator, even if intended for use with an iron, would not be classified under 851640 but rather under a heading for electrical heating apparatus or steam generating apparatus.

How should importers classify products under HS 851640?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851640 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and components. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the appliance is primarily designed for smoothing fabrics using heat and is handheld. If the product meets these criteria, it should be classified under 851640, ensuring accurate duty and tax declarations.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851640?

A Philips Azur Performer Steam Iron, weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $2.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($50.00 × 0.05 = $2.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8516.40.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851640?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851640, 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. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers a Free duty rate for eligible products originating from the EU or the UK. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and product origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 851631 HS 851632 HS 851680 HS 851671 HS 851633 HS 851672

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

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 851640 (Electric smoothing irons)?

Import duty rates for HS code 851640 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.7% ad valorem. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate is often 2.00% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff may show different rates depending on the origin. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.

How is the import duty for electric smoothing irons calculated? Can you provide an example?

Import duty is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods (ad valorem duty). For instance, if an importer brings in 100 electric smoothing irons valued at $10 each, for a total value of $1,000, and the applicable duty rate is 2.7% (as per the US HTS MFN rate), the duty calculation would be: $1,000 (total value) × 0.027 (duty rate) = $27.00. Some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit) or a combination, but ad valorem is common for this category.

Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that commonly affect imports of electric smoothing irons under HS 851640?

Yes, preferential duty rates are often available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the EU's trade agreements may benefit from reduced or free duties when imported into the EU. Similarly, the US has trade agreements with various partners that could impact duties. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to claim preferential treatment. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides a framework, but specific agreements are country-dependent.

What are the key classification criteria for electric smoothing irons under HS code 851640?

HS code 851640 specifically covers 'Electric smoothing irons'. The primary criterion is that the appliance must be designed for smoothing or pressing fabrics using heat, typically generated electrically. This includes standard household irons, travel irons, and steam irons. Appliances that primarily function as garment steamers or presses, rather than traditional irons, might fall under different subheadings within Chapter 85 or other chapters, depending on their specific design and function.

What documentation is typically required when importing electric smoothing irons under HS code 851640?

Standard import documentation for HS 851640 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and any preferential claims, a Certificate of Origin may be required. Additionally, importers may need to provide product safety certifications or compliance documents (e.g., CE marking for the EU, FCC for the US) to ensure the goods meet the importing country's electrical safety and emissions standards. Customs brokers play a crucial role in ensuring all required documents are accurate and complete.