HS 853890 Other
Quick Answer: Parts for electrical apparatus for switching, protecting, or connecting electrical circuits, not elsewhere specified, enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.20%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% depending on origin. This residual category, HS 853890, captures components like terminal blocks, connectors, and certain enclosures that do not fit more specific classifications within Chapter 85. Importers and customs brokers should carefully review the specific subheadings and origin-based duty rates available on platforms like CustomTariffs to ensure accurate classification and duty payment, as the "Other" designation necessitates detailed product examination against the broader tariff schedule.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8538900000 | — | — | — |
| 8538901100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8538909110 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8538909189 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8538909910 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8538900000 | — | — | — |
| 8538901100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8538901900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8538909100 | 3.20 % | — | — |
| 8538909110 | 3.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8538901000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 853890 | — | — | — |
| 8538908120 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8538908140 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 8538908160 | — | — | ["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 8538.90?
Imports of Other 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 17 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 853890 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" parts and accessories for machines and apparatus of heading 8538, which are specifically designed for use with electrical apparatus for switching, protecting, or connecting electrical circuits, or for similar purposes. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this includes items such as terminal blocks, connectors, and other components not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings of 8538, provided they are dedicated to the apparatus described in heading 8538.
What falls outside HS 853890?
The following products are excluded from HS 853890: complete electrical apparatus of heading 8538, such as switchboards, control panels, and consoles, as well as parts and accessories specifically covered by other subheadings within 8538. For instance, printed circuits (HS 8538900000 in some jurisdictions) are often classified separately, and general-purpose fasteners or housing materials not specifically designed for the electrical apparatus of heading 8538 would typically be classified elsewhere based on their material or function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853890?
A common error is misclassifying components that are not exclusively or principally designed for the electrical apparatus of heading 8538. For example, general-purpose electrical connectors or wiring that could be used in a wide range of applications, not just those covered by heading 8538, might be incorrectly placed here. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) and Section XVI Note 2, which emphasizes the specific function and design for the apparatus of heading 8538, is crucial to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 853890?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853890 involves a detailed examination of the product's design, intended use, and specific function. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes for heading 8538. If the product is a part or accessory for electrical apparatus of heading 8538 and is not specifically classified elsewhere, then 853890 is the appropriate subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853890?
A shipment of 1,000 specialized terminal blocks, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.035 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 853890.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853890?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853890, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 853890?
HS code 853890, covering 'Other' parts and accessories for electrical apparatus of headings 8535, 8536, or 8537, has varying duty rates depending on the importing country. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. In contrast, the UK's standard duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for precise rates, as these can change.
How is the import duty for HS 853890 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 853890 typically follows an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of parts classified under 853890 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% (as might be seen in some national tariffs), the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 3.5% (Duty Rate) = $350. Always confirm the valuation method and the specific duty rate applicable to your shipment.
What are the preferential duty rates available for HS code 853890 under trade agreements?
Preferential duty rates for HS 853890 are often available for goods originating from countries that are signatories to specific trade agreements. For example, under the UK's tariff schedule, goods originating from certain countries (marked with codes like A*, AU, B, CL, JP, KR, SG etc.) may receive 'Free' (0.00%) duty. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates. Consult the relevant trade agreement and the destination country's tariff database for specific eligibility and requirements.
What criteria are used to classify goods under HS code 853890 'Other'?
HS code 853890 is a residual category used for parts and accessories of electrical apparatus of headings 8535, 8536, or 8537 that are not specifically classified elsewhere within Chapter 85. Classification hinges on whether the item is indeed a 'part' or 'accessory' and if it is intended for use with electrical apparatus falling under the specified headings (e.g., switches, connectors, panels, cabinets). If an item has a more specific HS code, that code should be used. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide detailed guidance on the scope of these headings.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 853890?
Standard import documentation for HS code 853890 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. For electrical components, compliance with safety and electrical standards of the importing country might necessitate additional certifications or declarations. It is advisable to verify specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country or consult with a customs broker.