HS 853110 Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
Quick Answer: Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus imported under HS 853110 enters the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.20%, and the US at 1.3% (MFN). This classification covers devices designed to detect unauthorized entry or fire and alert occupants or authorities, including motion detectors, smoke alarms, and control panels. Importers should be aware of potential variations in specific subheadings and preferential duty rates, particularly in the US where a broad range of free trade agreements can eliminate duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the exact tariff line for each jurisdiction to ensure accurate duty payments and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8531109590 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8531100000 | — | — | — |
| 8531103000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8531109500 | — | — | — |
| 8531109510 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8531100000 | — | — | — |
| 8531103000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 8531109500 | — | — | — |
| 8531109510 | — | — | — |
| 8531109590 | 2.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85311000 | 1.3% | Free (19 programs) | — |
| 8531100025 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8531100045 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8531100015 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8531100035 | — | — | ["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 8531.10?
Imports of Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus 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 16 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 853110 cover?
This subheading covers burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes. This includes devices designed to detect unauthorized entry or the outbreak of fire and to signal an alarm, such as motion detectors, door/window contacts, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and control panels. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are electrical apparatus for detecting and signaling alarms.
What falls outside HS 853110?
The following products are excluded from HS 853110: standalone sirens or bells that do not incorporate detection or signaling functions, simple doorbells, and fire extinguishing systems. For instance, a basic bell (HS 8530) or a fire sprinkler system control panel (often classified under machinery for specific industries) would not fall under this subheading, as they lack the integrated alarm detection and signaling capabilities characteristic of this code.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853110?
A common error is misclassifying integrated security systems that include components beyond simple alarm functions, such as video surveillance or access control systems, which may be classified under different headings. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are put up for retail sale in sets, they are classified according to the component that gives them their essential character; if this is not determinable, the heading that occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration shall be taken. This often leads to confusion.
How should importers classify products under HS 853110?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853110 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and its constituent parts. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. If the apparatus is designed to detect and signal alarms, and does not have a more specific classification, then 853110 is likely appropriate.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853110?
A shipment of 100 wireless smoke detectors, each valued at $15 USD, for a total declared customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the total declared value ($1,500 USD × 10% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853110, 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 Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 853110 (Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 853110 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the MFN rate is often around 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, goods from Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), or South Korea (KR) may benefit from lower or free rates under agreements like USMCA or KORUS. Always consult the latest tariff schedule for the specific importing country and the country of origin to determine the applicable duty rate.
How is the import duty for HS code 853110 calculated? Can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 853110 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of burglar alarms valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the US, and the applicable MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the calculated duty would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $200.00. If there were also specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per unit), those would be calculated separately and potentially added, though for this code, ad valorem is most common.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 853110?
HS code 853110 covers 'Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus'. The key classification criteria focus on the apparatus's primary function: detecting unauthorized entry or fire and signaling an alarm. This includes self-contained alarm units, control panels that integrate alarm functions, and related signaling devices. Apparatus primarily designed for other functions, such as simple smoke detectors without an integrated alarm or security cameras without alarm signaling capabilities, might fall under different HS codes. The 'similar apparatus' clause is broad but generally refers to devices with a comparable protective or warning function.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 853110?
When importing goods under HS code 853110, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, product safety certifications (e.g., CE marking for the EU, FCC for the US, UL listing), and potentially import licenses or permits if the apparatus is subject to specific regulations related to security or safety standards. Importers should verify the requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS code 853110?
Several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 853110. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides duty-free treatment for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) can also reduce or eliminate duties for goods from South Korea. For imports into the European Union, the EU's network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada, Japan, and South Korea may offer reduced rates. Similarly, the UK's trade agreements post-Brexit can impact duties for goods entering the UK. It is crucial to confirm the specific rules of origin and eligibility under each agreement.