HS 853080 Other equipment
Quick Answer: Electrical signaling, safety, or traffic control equipment for railways, roads, or waterways, not elsewhere specified, imported under HS 853080 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This residual category captures specialized electrical apparatus like track circuits, signal boxes, and level crossing equipment that do not fit into more specific headings within Chapter 85. Importers and customs brokers should verify the precise classification and applicable rates for their specific goods, as the US tariff schedule presents a broad range of duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of detailed product descriptions for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530800000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530800000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8530800000 | 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 853080 cover?
This subheading covers "Other electrical signaling, safety or traffic control equipment and apparatus" not specifically classified under preceding subheadings within HS 8530. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes a broad range of devices used for signaling, safety, or traffic control in various environments, such as railway, road, and waterway systems, that do not fit into more specific categories like railway or tramway signals or level crossing protection equipment. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on specific inclusions.
What falls outside HS 853080?
The following products are excluded from HS 853080: general-purpose electrical apparatus (Chapter 85, other headings), telecommunication equipment (heading 8517), sound or visual signaling apparatus (heading 8531), and specific railway or tramway signaling and safety equipment already classified elsewhere in heading 8530. For instance, traffic lights for general road use, unless specifically designed as part of an integrated railway signaling system, would typically be classified under heading 8531 as sound or visual signaling apparatus, not under 853080.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853080?
A common error is misinterpreting the scope of "other" equipment. Importers may incorrectly classify general electrical components or devices that perform signaling functions but are not specifically designed for railway, tramway, road, or waterway traffic control or safety systems. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(a) and 3(b) is crucial, ensuring that the most specific heading or the essential character of the good is identified before resorting to a residual "other" category like 853080.
How should importers classify products under HS 853080?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853080 involves a systematic review of the product's function, design, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and then cross-reference with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. If the product is electrical, used for signaling, safety, or traffic control, and not specifically provided for in a more precise heading or subheading, then 853080 becomes a strong candidate for classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853080?
A shipment of 100 units of an "Electronic Track Circuit Transponder" weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500.00). Specific duty rates can vary significantly by country and product.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853080?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853080, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin. For goods originating from countries with Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) status, a GSP Form A may be required to claim preferential duty rates, which can also be Free or significantly reduced.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What is the general import duty rate for HS code 853080 in the United States?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 853080, which covers 'Other electrical apparatus for line telegraphic or telephonic transmission,' in the United States is typically 1.70% ad valorem. This rate is applied to the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if goods valued at $10,000 are imported, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.0170 = $170. Importers should always verify the current rate with the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) as published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most up-to-date information and any potential modifications.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 853080 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 853080 depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States might qualify for a 0.00% duty rate. To claim preferential treatment, importers and customs brokers must ensure that the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant FTA and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin. Consult the USITC HTSUS for specific details on preferential rates tied to trade agreements.
What are the classification criteria for 'Other electrical apparatus' under HS code 853080?
HS code 853080 is a residual category within Chapter 85, which deals with electrical machinery and equipment. It applies to electrical apparatus for line telegraphic or telephonic transmission that are not specifically classified under other headings within Section XVI of the Harmonized System. This typically includes devices used in telecommunication networks for signal transmission over lines, such as certain types of signal generators, signal repeaters, or specialized interface equipment not covered by more specific codes like 8517. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance on the scope of this heading, emphasizing its residual nature for electrical transmission equipment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 853080?
When importing goods under HS code 853080, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the specific nature of the 'other electrical apparatus,' additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, product-specific certifications demonstrating compliance with safety or technical standards (e.g., FCC compliance in the US), and potentially a declaration of conformity. Customs brokers play a crucial role in ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 853080 if the duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem and the goods are subject to a specific duty component?
HS code 853080 primarily uses an ad valorem duty rate, meaning it's calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the goods. For example, if the duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem and the declared customs value of the imported equipment is $5,000, the duty would be $5,000 (value) * 0.0170 (duty rate) = $85. While this code is typically ad valorem, some countries might have provisions for combined duties (ad valorem and specific) or anti-dumping/countervailing duties on certain goods from specific origins. It is essential for importers and customs brokers to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to determine the exact duty calculation method and any additional duties that may apply.