HS 853690 Other apparatus
Quick Answer: Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, not elsewhere specified, imported under HS 853690 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00% or 2.30%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% depending on origin and specific product. This broad category encompasses a wide array of devices like connectors, terminal blocks, and other electrical components not covered by more specific HS codes. Importers should carefully review the specific subheadings within 853690 for each jurisdiction to determine the precise duty rate applicable to their goods. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification for compliance and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536900000 | — | — | — |
| 8536900100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8536901000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8536904000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8536909500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536900000 | — | — | — |
| 8536900100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8536901000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8536904000 | 2.30 % | — | — |
| 8536909500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536908510 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 8536908530 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 853690 | — | — | — |
| 8536906000 | 2.7% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8536908585 | — | — | ["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 8536.90?
Imports of Other 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, 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 853690 cover?
This subheading covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, not specifically provided for elsewhere in heading 8536. This includes a wide array of devices such as terminal blocks, connectors, sockets, plugs, and other junction devices for electrical circuits, as detailed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that items like screw-type terminal blocks and various electrical connectors fall under this classification when they do not fit more specific subheadings within 8536.
What falls outside HS 853690?
The following products are excluded from HS 853690: electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits that are specifically enumerated in other subheadings of heading 8536, such as circuit breakers (8536.20) or relays (8536.49). Additionally, items that are primarily designed for specific functions beyond simple connection or protection, such as complete electrical panels or switchboards, are typically classified under different headings. For example, complete switchgear assemblies are usually classified under heading 8537.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853690?
A common error is misclassifying specialized electrical components that have a primary function other than simple switching, protection, or connection. For instance, a device that incorporates a significant electronic control function might be incorrectly placed here, when it should be classified under heading 8537 or even Chapter 84 if its primary function is mechanical. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) for composite goods and Rule 3(c) for goods with essential character is crucial to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 853690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853690 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and components. 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 product is a composite good, determine its essential character. For example, a simple wire connector designed solely for making electrical connections would be classified here.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853690?
A shipment of 1,000 units of generic electrical terminal blocks, each valued at $0.50 USD, with a total declared customs value of $500 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, applied to the declared customs value: 7.0% × $500 USD = $35.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8536.90.9000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853690?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853690, 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 valid origin declaration or certificate, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin, is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 853690, 'Other apparatus'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 853690 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the MFN rate is often 2.30% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, goods originating from countries with specific trade agreements might receive rates such as Free (e.g., under agreements with Australia (AU), Canada (CA), or South Korea (KR)), or other reduced rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the import duty for HS 853690 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 853690 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 2.30% and you import goods valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0230 (Duty Rate) = $230 USD. Some items under this code might also have specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, depending on the national tariff schedule. Always verify the basis of duty calculation for your specific product and destination country.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 853690, 'Other apparatus'?
HS code 853690 is a residual category for electrical apparatus for switching, protecting, or connecting electrical circuits, not elsewhere specified or included in headings 8535 or 8536. Classification hinges on whether the apparatus meets the general definition of electrical apparatus for switching, protecting, or connecting, and importantly, if it is not specifically covered by more precise HS codes within Chapter 85. This includes items like certain types of connectors, terminal blocks, relays, and other specialized electrical components. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on the scope of this heading.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 853690?
Numerous trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 853690. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) which may offer reduced or zero duties for qualifying goods from Canada and Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide also offer preferential access. The UK's Global Tariff includes preferential rates for many countries. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement between the importing country and the country of origin to determine eligibility for preferential treatment, which often requires a valid Certificate of Origin.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 853690?
Standard import documentation for HS code 853690 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the 'other apparatus,' additional documentation may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, product-specific safety or compliance certificates (e.g., CE marking for the EU, FCC for the US, UKCA for the UK), and potentially technical specifications or datasheets to substantiate the HS classification. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all necessary documents are accurately prepared and submitted.