HS 853720 For a voltage 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 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 specifically applies to high-voltage switchgear, control panels, and similar equipment designed for power distribution and management systems operating above 1,000 volts. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available in the US for certain trading partners, as indicated by CustomTariffs data. Careful classification is crucial to ensure accurate duty assessment and compliance with customs regulations across these jurisdictions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537200000 | — | — | — |
| 8537209100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537209110 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537209190 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8537209990 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537200000 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537209100 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537209110 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537209190 | 2.10 % | — | — |
| 8537209900 | 2.10 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537200020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 85372000 | 2.7% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 8537200040 | — | — | ["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 8537.20?
Imports of For a voltage 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 15 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 853720 cover?
This subheading covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, designed for a voltage exceeding 1,000 volts. This includes switchboards, control panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, and other bases equipped with two or more of the apparatus described in heading 8535 or 8536, for electric control or distribution. The World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Nomenclature and official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the voltage rating as the primary classification criterion.
What falls outside HS 853720?
The following products are excluded from HS 853720: individual electrical apparatus for switching or protecting circuits (classified under heading 8535 or 8536), electrical apparatus for making connections to or in electrical circuits (also heading 8535 or 8536), and electrical apparatus for controlling or distributing electricity that operate at 1,000 volts or less. For instance, a low-voltage distribution board or a single high-voltage circuit breaker would not fall under this subheading, as the voltage threshold is critical.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853720?
A common error is misinterpreting the voltage requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify equipment designed for 1,000 volts or less under this subheading, or vice versa. Furthermore, confusion can arise when the apparatus includes components that might suggest a different classification, but General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, which prioritizes essential character, must be applied. The primary function and voltage rating are paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 853720?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853720 involves first confirming the operating voltage of the electrical apparatus. If the voltage exceeds 1,000 volts, then assess whether the item is a switchboard, control panel, or similar base fitted with switching, protecting, or connecting devices. Reviewing technical specifications and consulting the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853720?
A specific high-voltage switchgear assembly weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $150,000 USD would attract a US duty of $4,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($150,000 USD × 0.03 = $4,500). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8537.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853720?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853720, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can achieve a duty rate of Free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, depending on the origin country, other agreements like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) might offer reduced rates, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 853720 (for voltage exceeding 1,000 V) in the United States?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for goods classified under HS code 853720 in the United States is 2.10% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries not covered by preferential trade agreements. You can verify this rate on the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website, specifically within the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
How is the import duty for HS code 853720 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 853720 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, designed for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V, has a customs value of $50,000 and the MFN duty rate is 2.10%, the import duty would be $50,000 * 0.0210 = $1,050.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 853720?
HS code 853720 specifically covers 'Boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets and other bases, equipped with two or more of the foregoing devices, for electric control or the distribution of electric energy, for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V'. The critical factors for classification are that the apparatus must be designed for voltages over 1,000 V and must contain at least two control or distribution devices (e.g., switches, circuit breakers, relays, busbars) mounted on a common base or enclosure.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 853720, and what are some examples of these rates?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods under HS code 853720. For instance, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), the duty rate is Free. Similarly, imports from Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) under their respective free trade agreements with the US also benefit from a Free duty rate. It is crucial for importers and brokers to consult the HTSUS for the specific country and applicable preferential program to confirm eligibility and the exact rate, which can change based on trade agreement updates.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 853720?
When importing electrical apparatus classified under HS code 853720, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, quantity, value, and country of origin; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the specific product and its intended use, importers may need to provide technical specifications, certifications, or declarations confirming compliance with voltage requirements (exceeding 1,000 V) and relevant safety standards. Customs brokers should always verify specific requirements with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the relevant importing country's customs authority.