HS 852210 Pick-up cartridges
Quick Answer: Pick-up cartridges imported under HS 852210 enter the UK duty-free at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 3.9% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This HS code specifically covers cartridges used in record players (turntables) to convert the groove information into an electrical signal. Importers and customs brokers should be aware of the varying MFN rates and the potential for preferential duty treatment in the US, which can significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8522100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8522100000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8522100000 | 3.9% | Free (18 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 8522.10?
Imports of Pick-up cartridges 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 852210 cover?
This subheading covers pick-up cartridges, which are essential components of record players and turntables. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes the stylus (needle) and the cantilever assembly that holds it, along with the associated magnetic or ceramic elements responsible for converting the groove's physical modulations into an electrical signal. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these are specifically the devices designed to extract audio information from vinyl records.
What falls outside HS 852210?
The following products are excluded from HS 852210: complete record players or turntables, which are classified under heading 8519; replacement styli or needles that are not part of a complete cartridge assembly; and spare parts or accessories for cartridges that do not constitute the functional pick-up unit itself, such as styli sold separately without the cantilever or magnetic structure. For instance, a standalone replacement stylus, even if intended for a cartridge, would typically be classified elsewhere based on its specific nature and function, often under a more general parts heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 852210?
A common error is misclassifying integrated turntable components that include a pick-up cartridge as part of a larger assembly. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods consisting of different materials or components which cannot be readily separated and which give the essential character of the goods shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Therefore, a complete turntable with an attached cartridge should be classified under heading 8519, not 852210.
How should importers classify products under HS 852210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 852210 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the item is specifically a pick-up cartridge designed for audio record players, comprising the stylus, cantilever, and signal-generating mechanism. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and cross-referencing with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 852210?
A Shure M97xE phono cartridge, declared at a customs value of $75.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.75. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 852210.0000. The calculation is: 5.0% × $75.00 = $3.75. This rate applies to imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 852210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 852210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible originating 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 jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 852210 (Pick-up cartridges)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 852210, covering pick-up cartridges, is typically 3.9% ad valorem in the United States. However, specific rates can vary by country. For example, the European Union's TARIC system may show different rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also lists its specific duties. Always consult the relevant customs authority's tariff schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date information for your destination country.
How are preferential duty rates applied to HS code 852210 under trade agreements?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 852210 are available to goods originating from countries that have trade agreements with the importing country. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods may qualify for duty-free entry (0.00%) if they meet the rules of origin. Other agreements, such as those with Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG), may also offer reduced or free entry. Importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the pick-up cartridges meet all stipulated origin criteria to claim these benefits. The specific preferential rates often listed as 'Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' indicate eligibility for duty-free treatment under various bilateral or multilateral agreements for those listed countries/regions.
What defines a 'pick-up cartridge' for HS classification under 852210?
HS code 852210 specifically covers 'pick-up cartridges' and parts thereof. A pick-up cartridge, also known as a stylus or needle assembly, is the component of a record player or turntable that holds the stylus and converts the physical modulations of a vinyl record into an electrical signal. For classification purposes, it must be identifiable as this specific audio playback component. Items that are merely styli without the full cartridge assembly, or other parts of a turntable not directly related to the pick-up mechanism, may fall under different HS codes within Chapter 85.
How is the import duty for pick-up cartridges calculated? Provide an example.
Import duty for pick-up cartridges under HS code 852210 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the standard MFN duty rate is 3.9% and you import 100 pick-up cartridges with a declared customs value of $10 each, the total value is $1,000. The import duty would be calculated as: 3.9% of $1,000 = $39.00. If a specific duty is applied (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be rate × quantity. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., Transaction Value).
What documentation is typically required when importing pick-up cartridges under HS 852210?
When importing pick-up cartridges (HS 852210), standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. This document certifies that the goods meet the origin requirements of the agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical datasheets if requested by customs to verify the classification. Ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete is vital to avoid delays and potential penalties.