HS 853540 Lightning arresters, voltage limiters and surge suppressors

Quick Answer: Lightning arresters, voltage limiters, and surge suppressors imported under HS 853540 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at 2.7% under the MFN rate, though preferential rates may apply. This classification covers devices designed to protect electrical systems and equipment from overvoltage transients, such as those caused by lightning strikes or power surges. Importers should be aware of potential variations in preferential duty rates for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8535400000 2.00 % — —
8535400010 2.00 % — —
8535400090 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8535400000 2.70 % — —
8535400010 2.70 % — —
8535400090 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8535400000 2.7% Free (17 programs) ["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 8535.40?

Imports of Lightning arresters, voltage limiters and surge suppressors 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 14 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?

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What products does HS 853540 cover?

This subheading covers electrical apparatus for the protection of electrical circuits against overvoltage, specifically lightning arresters, voltage limiters, and surge suppressors. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these devices are designed to divert transient overvoltages caused by lightning strikes or other electrical disturbances away from sensitive equipment. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, encompassing devices that protect electrical systems by limiting voltage to a safe level.

What falls outside HS 853540?

The following products are excluded from HS 853540: electrical fuses and circuit breakers (classified under HS 8536), which interrupt circuits under overload conditions but do not primarily limit voltage surges. Also excluded are surge protective components that are integrated into other electrical apparatus, such as power supplies or electronic devices, unless they are presented as separate articles. Devices intended solely for signal line protection may also fall under different classifications depending on their specific construction and function.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 853540?

A common error is misclassifying surge protective devices that are integral parts of other electrical equipment. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For instance, a surge protector built into a computer power supply would not be classified separately under 853540 but would follow the classification of the power supply itself.

How should importers classify products under HS 853540?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853540 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended function. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the device's primary purpose is to arrest lightning, limit voltage, or suppress surges, and if it is presented as a standalone electrical apparatus.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853540?

A Siemens 3RT2017-1AP00 3-pole contactor, weighing 0.25 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $1.75. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50.00 × 0.07 = $3.50). However, if the product were a specific surge arrester, for example, a DEHN HAW 275, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at $100.00 USD, the US MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem would result in a duty of $3.50 ($100.00 × 0.035).

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853540?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853540, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction, is typically required.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 853510 HS 853630 HS 853521 HS 853530 HS 854040 HS 850440

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the primary import duty rates for HS code 853540 (lightning arresters, voltage limiters, and surge suppressors)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 853540 in the United States is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), the rate is Free. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current and specific rates applicable to your country of origin. The USITC provides this information.

How is the import duty for HS 853540 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 853540 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if you import a shipment of surge suppressors valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.0270 = $270.00 USD. Always ensure your declared value is accurate and includes all elements as per customs regulations.

What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 853540?

HS code 853540 covers electrical apparatus for protecting electrical circuits against surges. This includes devices designed to limit voltage or divert excess voltage and current. Key criteria include the device's function (protection against overvoltage/surges), its electrical nature, and its application in protecting electrical circuits. Devices that primarily function as circuit breakers or fuses, even if they offer some surge protection, may be classified elsewhere. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide detailed guidance on distinguishing these products.

Which trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 853540 into the United States?

Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 853540 entering the United States. Notable agreements include those with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia (AUSFTA), and various Central American and Caribbean nations under CAFTA-DR, where duties are often Free or significantly reduced. Importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin to claim these preferential rates. The USITC's HTSUS is the definitive source for checking specific preferential rates by country.

Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing goods under HS code 853540?

While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, importing electrical goods like lightning arresters and surge suppressors may require additional documentation to ensure compliance with safety and electrical standards. Depending on the importing country's regulations, this could include safety certifications (e.g., UL listing in the US, CE marking in the EU), technical specifications, and a declaration of conformity. Customs brokers should verify the specific requirements with the importing country's relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the US, to avoid delays or penalties.