HS 853710 For a voltage not exceeding 1 000 V
Quick Answer: Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V, enters the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.10%, and the US at 2.7% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers a wide array of items such as circuit breakers, switches, and distribution boards designed for low-voltage electrical systems. Importers should be aware of potential variations in specific subheadings and preferential duty rates available in the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537100000 | — | — | — |
| 8537101000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537101010 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537109100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537109145 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537100000 | — | — | — |
| 8537101000 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537101010 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537101090 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537109100 | 2.10 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537103000 | 2.7% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 853710 | — | — | — |
| 8537108000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8537109120 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8537109150 | — | — | ["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 8537.10?
Imports of For a voltage not exceeding 1 000 V 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 853710 cover?
This subheading covers boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, and other bases, equipped with two or more apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536, for electric control or the distribution of electricity, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes to Heading 85.37, these assemblies are designed to house and connect various electrical components for controlling or distributing power, and are typically found in industrial, commercial, or residential electrical systems. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on specific applications, such as motor control centers and distribution boards.
What falls outside HS 853710?
The following products are excluded from HS 853710: apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536 when not assembled on a base or panel, individual switches, circuit breakers, or relays, and complete electrical installations for vehicles or vessels. For instance, a standalone industrial circuit breaker (HS 8536.20) or a control panel for a single machine without a distribution function would not be classified here. The key differentiator is the presence of a base or panel equipped with multiple apparatus for control or distribution.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853710?
A common error is misclassifying complex integrated systems that may contain elements of 8537 but are primarily designed for a specific function, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) system which might fall under HS 8537.10 if it's a control panel, or under other headings if it's a standalone unit. Another mistake involves confusing assemblies with simple wiring harnesses or junction boxes, which do not meet the criteria of being equipped with two or more apparatus of heading 8535 or 8536 for control or distribution.
How should importers classify products under HS 853710?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853710 involves a detailed examination of the product's construction and function. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the item is a base or panel equipped with at least two distinct electrical control or distribution apparatus from headings 8535 or 8536, and that its operating voltage does not exceed 1,000 V. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes, the relevant national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC), and potentially seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities are crucial steps.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853710?
A Siemens SIVACON 8MR switchboard panel weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $750.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($15,000 USD × 0.05 = $750.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8537.10.9000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853710?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853710, 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. For goods originating from the European Union, a preferential rate of Free may apply under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for qualifying goods from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the general import duty rate for HS code 853710 (boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets and other bases, equipped with two or more of the following apparatus: switches, relays, fuses, plug-and-socket outlets, lamps, for a voltage not exceeding 1 000 V)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 853710 in the United States is typically 2.7% ad valorem. However, specific duty rates can vary based on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most accurate and up-to-date information, available on the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website.
How is the import duty for HS 853710 calculated for a shipment to the United States?
The duty for HS 853710 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of electrical control panels classified under HS 853710 has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 2.7%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.027 = $270.00. Ensure accurate valuation and classification to avoid penalties.
What are some common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 853710 into the United States?
The United States has various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under HS 853710. Examples include agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Mexico (MX) under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA). To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the respective trade agreement. Consult the USITC HTSUS for specific preferential rates, often denoted by symbols like 'A*' for Australia.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 853710 into the UK?
When importing goods classified under HS code 853710 into the United Kingdom, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value and description of the goods, a packing list, and a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill. Crucially, you will need to declare the correct HS code and adhere to any specific product safety or electrical standards that may apply. The UK Trade Tariff, available on the GOV.UK website, provides detailed information on duty rates, taxes, and any specific import controls for this classification.
Are there specific classification criteria to distinguish HS 853710 from other similar electrical equipment?
Yes, the key criterion for HS 853710 is that the base (e.g., panel, cabinet) must be equipped with two or more of the listed apparatus (switches, relays, fuses, plug-and-socket outlets, lamps, etc.) and designed for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V. If the base has only one such apparatus, or if it is designed for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V, it would likely be classified under a different HS code. For instance, simple multi-way adaptors with only plug-socket outlets might fall under Chapter 85, but not necessarily 8537. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for definitive guidance.