HS 853210 Fixed capacitors designed for use in 50/60 Hz circuits and having a reactive power handling capacity of not less than 0,5 kvar (power capacitors)
Quick Answer: Power capacitors designed for 50/60 Hz circuits with a reactive power handling capacity of at least 0.5 kvar imported under HS 853210 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 35% (MFN rate), though some may enter duty-free. This classification specifically covers fixed capacitors intended for use in electrical power systems to manage reactive power, often found in industrial settings for power factor correction. Importers should verify specific product specifications against the tariff notes to ensure correct classification. According to CustomTariffs data, the significant duty differential for the US market warrants careful consideration for trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8532100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8532100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8532100000 | 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 853210 cover?
This subheading covers fixed capacitors specifically designed for use in alternating current (AC) circuits operating at 50 or 60 Hertz (Hz). Crucially, these capacitors must possess a reactive power handling capacity of not less than 0.5 kilovolt-amperes reactive (kvar). As per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, these are commonly referred to as "power capacitors" and are essential for power factor correction in electrical grids and industrial machinery.
What falls outside HS 853210?
The following products are excluded from HS 853210: capacitors not designed for 50/60 Hz circuits, such as those for high-frequency applications or DC circuits. Additionally, capacitors with a reactive power handling capacity below 0.5 kvar are not classified here. For instance, small ceramic or electrolytic capacitors used in electronic devices, which typically have much lower reactive power ratings, would fall under other subheadings within HS 8532. Fixed capacitors for use in 50/60 Hz circuits but with a reactive power handling capacity of less than 0.5 kvar are classified under HS 853290.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853210?
A common error is misinterpreting the "reactive power handling capacity" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify capacitors intended for electronic circuits or DC applications under this subheading, failing to adhere to the 50/60 Hz operational frequency and the minimum 0.5 kvar threshold. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Overlooking technical specifications provided by the manufacturer is a frequent pitfall.
How should importers classify products under HS 853210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853210 involves a thorough review of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the capacitor is a fixed type, designed for 50/60 Hz AC circuits, and confirm its reactive power handling capacity is at least 0.5 kvar. Consulting the manufacturer's datasheet and cross-referencing this information with the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853210?
A specific example: A three-phase power capacitor bank, rated at 10 kvar, weighing 25 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 853210 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 1.7% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as 1.7% of $1,500, resulting in $25.50. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, applied to the declared customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may enter the US duty-free. For goods originating from Canada or Mexico, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required to claim preferential treatment. Other agreements might offer reduced rates, but specific eligibility and documentation requirements, such as EUR.1 movement certificates for EU preferences or GSP Form A for certain developing countries, must be meticulously verified for each origin country.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 853210 (Power Capacitors)?
Import duty rates for HS code 853210 vary significantly by country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also often 0.00%. However, other countries may have higher rates. For instance, some nations might apply rates as high as 35%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
What specific criteria define a 'fixed capacitor' under HS code 853210?
HS code 853210 specifically covers 'Fixed capacitors designed for use in 50/60 Hz circuits and having a reactive power handling capacity of not less than 0.5 kvar (power capacitors)'. The key classification criteria are: 1) It must be a fixed capacitor (non-adjustable capacitance). 2) It must be designed for use in AC power circuits operating at standard frequencies of 50 or 60 Hz. 3) It must possess a reactive power handling capacity of 0.5 kilovolt-amperes reactive (kvar) or greater. Capacitors not meeting these specific requirements, such as smaller capacitors for electronic circuits, would be classified under different HS codes (e.g., 8532.21 for fixed dielectric capacitors, or 8532.30 for variable capacitors).
How is the import duty for power capacitors (HS 853210) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS code 853210 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (based on value) or specific (based on quantity), or a combination. Assuming an ad valorem rate, the duty is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of power capacitors classified under HS 853210 has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 3.5%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 3.5% (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. If a specific duty component were applicable (e.g., per unit), it would be added to this ad valorem amount. Always verify the duty calculation basis with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required for importing power capacitors (HS 853210)?
Standard documentation for importing power capacitors under HS code 853210 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the capacitor (e.g., safety certifications), additional documentation might be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, or specific safety and compliance certificates (e.g., CE marking for EU imports, UL listing for US imports) to ensure the product meets local electrical safety standards. Importers should consult the customs regulations of the destination country.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, offer preferential duty rates for HS 853210?
Yes, common trade agreements can significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 853210. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying power capacitors may be eligible for duty-free entry into the US, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries, which often provide for reduced or eliminated tariffs on goods like power capacitors, contingent upon meeting the specific rules of origin outlined in each agreement. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods qualify under the relevant agreement's rules of origin and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.