HS 854081 Other valves and tubes
Quick Answer: Valves and tubes classified under HS 854081 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from Free to 35% depending on origin. This code encompasses "other" valves and tubes not specifically listed in preceding headings within Chapter 85, often including specialized electronic components like magnetrons or klystrons used in industrial applications or broadcasting. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification and origin documentation for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8540810000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8540810010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8540810090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8540810000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8540810010 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 8540810090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8540810000 | 4.2% | Free (18 programs) | ["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 8540.81?
Imports of Other valves and tubes 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 854081 cover?
This subheading covers "other valves and tubes" not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings of HS 8540. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is for thermionic, cold cathode, or photocathode valves and tubes, including valves and tubes with a heated cathode, which are not elsewhere specified or included. For the United States, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this as valves and tubes other than those for radio-frequency, gas-discharge, and certain other specialized types, often used in electronic circuits for amplification, switching, or oscillation.
What falls outside HS 854081?
The following products are excluded from HS 854081: thermionic, cold cathode, or photocathode valves and tubes with a heated cathode, specifically those for radio-frequency, gas-discharge, and certain other specialized applications. This includes items like magnetrons (HS 854089), klystrons, and travelling-wave tubes, as well as semiconductor devices (Chapter 85, Heading 8541) and integrated circuits (Chapter 85, Heading 8542). Diodes and transistors, for instance, are classified under HS 8541.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854081?
A common error is misclassifying semiconductor devices or specialized valves like magnetrons under HS 854081. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) mandates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify components that are part of a larger assembly, failing to consider whether the valve or tube is the essential character of the good or if it falls under a more specific heading for complete electronic apparatus.
How should importers classify products under HS 854081?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854081 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC database, to verify the precise definition of this subheading. Cross-referencing with the WCO Explanatory Notes is also crucial to ensure accurate identification and to distinguish it from other headings, particularly 8540.89 and Chapter 8541.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854081?
A specific type of vacuum tube for audio amplification, weighing 0.2 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 10% × $150 USD = $15.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 854081.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854081?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854081, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may be eligible for a 0% duty rate. The primary origin country benefiting from this is Mexico. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required, detailing the basis for the claim of origin, as per the agreement's provisions.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854081, covering 'Other valves and tubes'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 854081 is typically 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can be significantly lower or even free for imports from countries with trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements (indicated by codes like A, AU, B, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG), the duty rate is Free. It is crucial to verify the specific preferential rate applicable to your country of origin using official sources like the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU's TARIC database.
How is the import duty for HS code 854081 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 854081 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and you import goods valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 2.70% (Duty Rate) = $270 USD. If the goods are subject to a specific duty (per unit), the calculation would be Rate per unit × Number of units. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs authority.
What specific criteria differentiate goods classified under HS 854081 from other valve and tube classifications?
HS code 854081 falls under Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. Specifically, heading 8540 pertains to 'Valves and tubes, hot cathode, hot cathode, mercury-vapour or vapour-admitting, with or without metal or glass envelopes, other valves and tubes with electric potential applied, and parts thereof.' HS code 854081 is for 'Other valves and tubes' within this heading, meaning it covers valves and tubes not specifically listed under preceding subheadings (e.g., cathode ray tubes, diodes, transistors, etc.). Classification depends on the technical function and construction of the item. Consulting the WCO's Explanatory Notes or the specific tariff schedule of the importing country is essential for precise classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 854081?
For HS code 854081, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the valves and tubes; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. For certain types of valves and tubes, specific technical specifications or safety certifications might also be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs regulations for a comprehensive list.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 854081, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 854081. Based on the sample rates provided, agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may offer duty-free entry. To verify eligibility, importers must: 1. Identify the specific trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries. 2. Obtain a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) from the exporter, which must meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. 3. Consult the official tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) which will detail the preferential rates and any specific conditions for HS 854081 under each agreement.