HS 853310 Fixed carbon resistors, composition or film types
Quick Answer: Fixed carbon resistors, composition or film types, imported under HS 853310, enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate that can be as high as 35%. This classification covers resistors where the resistive element is made from carbon particles mixed with a binder (composition) or a thin layer of carbon deposited on a ceramic core (film). These are typically non-adjustable resistors used in electronic circuits to control current flow. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between major trading blocs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise classification for cost-effective trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8533100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8533100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8533100020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8533100057 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8533100065 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 85331000 | Free | — | — |
| 8533100042 | — | — | ["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 853310 cover?
This subheading covers fixed resistors made of carbon composition or carbon film. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are electrical components designed to impede the flow of electric current, with their resistance value determined by the composition or film material. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system further define these as non-adjustable resistors where the resistive element is a molded or extruded mass of carbon or a thin layer of carbon deposited on an insulating substrate, typically used in electronic circuits.
What falls outside HS 853310?
The following products are excluded from HS 853310: variable resistors (such as potentiometers and rheostats), wire-wound resistors, and resistors made from other materials like metal film or ceramic composition. For instance, a potentiometer used for volume control in audio equipment, which allows for adjustable resistance, would be classified under a different subheading within HS 8533, and a high-power wire-wound resistor used in industrial applications would also fall outside this specific category.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853310?
A common error is misclassifying resistors based solely on their appearance or general function without considering the specific resistive material and construction. For example, mistaking a metal film resistor for a carbon film resistor, or classifying a variable resistor under this subheading, violates Chapter 85, Note 1, which specifies the criteria for classification. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1, is crucial for accurate classification based on the specific material and construction.
How should importers classify products under HS 853310?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853310 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must identify the resistive element's material (carbon composition or carbon film) and confirm that the resistor is fixed, meaning its resistance value is not adjustable. Consulting the product's datasheet, manufacturer's specifications, and the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) is essential to ensure accurate coding.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853310?
A batch of 10,000 carbon film resistors, each with a declared customs value of $0.05 USD, totaling $500.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8533.10.00: 7.0% × $500.00 USD = $35.00 USD.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853310?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying resistors originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, for certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free access, typically requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 853310 (Fixed carbon resistors, composition or film types)?
Import duty rates for HS code 853310 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is Free. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is 0.00%. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a rate of Free. However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, some countries may apply a rate of 35% under specific trade regimes or if preferential agreements are not met. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
What specific criteria define a 'fixed carbon resistor, composition or film type' for HS code 853310 classification?
HS code 853310 covers resistors where the resistive element is made from carbon composition or a thin film of carbon. 'Fixed' means the resistance value cannot be adjusted. Composition resistors use a mixture of carbon powder and a binder. Film resistors use a thin layer of carbon deposited on an insulating substrate. Key classification criteria include the material of the resistive element (must be carbon-based) and the fact that it is a fixed, non-adjustable component. Resistors with variable resistance (e.g., potentiometers) or those using other resistive materials (like metal film or wire-wound) would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing fixed carbon resistors under HS code 853310?
Standard import documentation for HS code 853310 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Manufacturers' specifications or datasheets detailing the resistor's composition and characteristics can also be helpful for customs authorities to verify the HS classification. It is advisable to check the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs authority.
How is the import duty for HS code 853310 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on whether the duty rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For HS code 853310, many countries have Free or 0.00% ad valorem rates. However, if a country applied a hypothetical 3.5% ad valorem duty on a shipment of these resistors valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 3.5% of $10,000 = $350. If a specific duty were applied, for example, $0.01 per unit, and 5,000 units were imported, the duty would be 5,000 units * $0.01/unit = $50. Always confirm the applicable duty rate type and amount with the importing country's tariff schedule.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 853310?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 853310 can be accessed through various trade agreements. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can provide reduced or zero duties for goods from certain developing countries. The UK also has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide. To benefit from these agreements, importers typically need to provide a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement.