HS 853910 Sealed beam lamp units
Quick Answer: Sealed beam lamp units imported under HS 853910 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 20% ad valorem depending on the country of origin. This HS code specifically covers complete lamp units designed to be sealed, typically used in automotive headlights. Importers should be aware that preferential duty rates may apply in the US based on specific trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the applicable duty rate and any origin-based considerations before shipment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8539100000 | — | — | — |
| 8539100010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8539100090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8539100000 | — | — | — |
| 8539100010 | — | — | — |
| 8539100090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85391000 | 2% | Free (19 programs) | — |
| 8539100060 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8539100010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8539100030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8539100050 | — | — | ["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 8539.10?
Imports of Sealed beam lamp units 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 853910 cover?
This subheading covers sealed beam lamp units, which are self-contained lighting devices designed to be permanently installed in a fixture. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these units typically consist of a bulb, reflector, and lens integrated into a single assembly, often used in automotive lighting. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to complete, sealed units, not individual components.
What falls outside HS 853910?
The following products are excluded from HS 853910: individual light bulbs (e.g., halogen bulbs classified under 8539.29), separate reflectors, lenses, or housings that are not integrated into a sealed unit. Also excluded are lighting assemblies that are not sealed beam units, such as complete headlight assemblies for vehicles that require separate bulb installation or are not designed as a single, integrated, sealed unit. These would typically be classified under other headings within Chapter 85 or Chapter 87.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 853910?
A common error is misclassifying individual lamp components, such as a bulb or a reflector, as a sealed beam lamp unit. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product is a component part of a larger assembly, it should be classified as such unless specifically provided for. Importers may also incorrectly classify non-sealed lighting units or assemblies that are not designed as a single, integrated, sealed unit.
How should importers classify products under HS 853910?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 853910 involves a thorough examination of the product's construction and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is a complete, sealed lighting unit, integrating the bulb, reflector, and lens. Consulting the official WCO HS Nomenclature, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific product descriptions and Explanatory Notes is crucial. If doubt remains, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 853910?
A set of 10 sealed beam headlight units for a vintage automobile, weighing 5 kg and declared at a customs value of $250 USD, would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($250 USD × 5% = $12.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 853910?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 853910, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for qualifying goods originating from the EU or the UK. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK trade is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and product origin.
```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 853910 (Sealed beam lamp units) in major markets?
Import duty rates for HS code 853910 vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.70% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 2% ad valorem for certain origins, but often benefits from preferential rates. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, with some potentially being Free (0.00%) under specific trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
What specific criteria define a product as a 'sealed beam lamp unit' under HS code 853910?
HS code 853910 covers 'Sealed beam lamp units'. These are self-contained lighting devices where the bulb and the reflector are integrated into a single unit, sealed together, typically with a glass or plastic lens. The key characteristic is that the light source (e.g., filament or LED) and the light-directing component (reflector) are permanently fixed and sealed as one assembly. They are designed to be directly mounted into a fixture without requiring separate bulbs or reflectors. This distinguishes them from lamp assemblies that require separate bulb replacement.
How is the import duty for HS code 853910 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 853910 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the United States MFN duty rate of 2.70% applies, and you import 100 sealed beam lamp units with a declared customs value of $500 in total, the duty would be calculated as: 2.70% of $500 = 0.0270 * $500 = $13.50. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per unit), so it's essential to check the specific tariff schedule.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 853910, and what documentation is needed?
Several trade agreements can grant preferential duty rates for HS code 853910. For example, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU trade agreements with countries like Switzerland or Norway, and UK Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various partners can reduce or eliminate duties. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a 'Proof of Origin' document, such as a Certificate of Origin or a declaration on the invoice, issued by the exporter in the originating country, confirming the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. The specific requirements vary by agreement and importing country.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and packing list for importing sealed beam lamp units (HS 853910)?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, importing HS code 853910 may require additional documentation depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's specific characteristics. For instance, some countries may require safety certifications or compliance with specific electrical standards to ensure the lamps meet local safety and performance requirements. It's advisable to check with the importing country's customs authority or a customs broker for any specific product-related declarations or certifications needed to avoid clearance delays.