HS 853010 Equipment for railways or tramways
Quick Answer: Equipment for railways or tramways imported under HS 853010 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This classification encompasses a broad range of electrical apparatus specifically designed for the installation or maintenance of railway or tramway lines, including signaling equipment, track circuits, and point-operating mechanisms. Importers should verify specific product applicability and consult the relevant national tariff schedules for precise duty rates, as variations can exist based on specific product types and origin. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530100000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530100000 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 853010 cover?
This subheading covers electrical apparatus for railways or tramways, specifically signaling, safety, traffic control, and related equipment. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items such as railway signals, interlocking equipment, track circuit apparatus, automatic train control systems, and level crossing warning devices. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, encompassing devices designed to ensure the safe and efficient operation of rail and tram networks.
What falls outside HS 853010?
The following products are excluded from HS 853010: general electrical equipment not specifically designed for railway or tramway infrastructure, such as standard electrical cables, lighting fixtures not integrated into signaling systems, or general-purpose motors. Furthermore, purely mechanical components of railway signaling systems, such as levers or physical barriers not electronically controlled, are classified elsewhere. For instance, simple track switches or manual crossing gates would not fall under this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853010?
A common error is misclassifying components that are part of a larger signaling system but are not the primary control or signaling apparatus. For example, individual sensors or basic wiring harnesses might be mistakenly classified under HS Chapter 85 general electrical apparatus headings rather than within the specific railway equipment category. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) for mixtures or composite goods, or Rule 3(c) for the essential character, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 853010?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853010 involves a detailed examination of the product's function and design. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, the specific tariff schedules of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff), and any relevant national customs rulings. Identifying whether the equipment is specifically designed for railway or tramway signaling, safety, or traffic control is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853010?
A specific railway track circuit transmitter, weighing 5 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $1,500 = $75.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8530.10.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853010?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853010, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may offer preferential rates for goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific origin declaration is typically required, depending on the agreement and the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What is the general import duty rate for HS code 853010 in the United States?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for goods classified under HS code 853010 in the United States is typically 0.00%. However, it is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific tariff schedule at the time of import, as rates can be subject to change or specific trade actions. Always consult the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for the most current and definitive information.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 853010 if a duty rate other than 0.00% applies?
If a duty rate other than 0.00% applies, the duty is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods (ad valorem) or a specific rate per unit. For example, if a shipment of railway equipment under HS 853010 has a declared customs value of $100,000 and is subject to a 1.70% ad valorem duty rate, the calculated duty would be $100,000 * 0.0170 = $1,700. Importers and brokers must ensure accurate valuation and apply the correct rate as per the applicable tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for equipment to be classified under HS code 853010?
HS code 853010 covers 'Electrical signaling, safety or traffic control equipment for railways or tramways, for roads, for inland waterways, for parking facilities or airfields; parts of these equipments.' Key classification criteria include the equipment's primary function being related to signaling, safety, or traffic control specifically for railway or tramway systems. This can include items like track circuits, signal lights, point machines, and automatic train protection systems. Items not meeting these specific functional and application criteria would be classified elsewhere.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 853010 under trade agreements, and what documentation is needed?
Preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 853010 depending on the origin of the goods and the existence of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the importing country and the exporting country. For instance, if goods originate from a country with an FTA with the United States, they might qualify for a reduced or duty-free rate. To claim preferential treatment, importers and brokers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter, certifying that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Always consult the specific FTA text and the importing country's customs regulations for precise documentation requirements.
What documentation is generally required for importing railway equipment under HS code 853010?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing railway equipment under HS code 853010 may require specific certifications or declarations depending on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the equipment. This could include safety certifications, technical specifications, or compliance with national railway standards. Importers and customs brokers should proactively research and obtain any required permits, licenses, or approvals from relevant government agencies (e.g., transportation authorities) prior to shipment to avoid delays or penalties.