HS 854110 Diodes, other than photosensitive or light-emitting diodes (LED)

Quick Answer: Diodes, other than photosensitive or light-emitting diodes (LEDs), enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This classification covers semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in only one direction, excluding those that react to light or emit light. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities, particularly in the US market, which may necessitate careful product sourcing and classification verification. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8541100000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8541100000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
85411000 Free — —
8541100040 — — ["No."]
8541100050 — — ["No."]
8541100060 — — ["No."]
8541100070 — — ["No."]

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.

How to Classify This HS Code?

```html

What products does HS 854110 cover?

This subheading covers diodes, excluding photosensitive diodes and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). As per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes semiconductor devices that permit current to flow in only one direction. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this includes rectifier diodes, Zener diodes, and transient voltage suppression (TVS) diodes, which are essential components in electronic circuits for controlling current flow and protecting against voltage surges.

What falls outside HS 854110?

The following products are excluded from HS 854110: photosensitive diodes (which are classified under HS 854140) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs, also classified under HS 854140). Additionally, transistors (HS 854121 and 854129), thyristors (HS 854130), and other semiconductor devices not specifically diodes, such as integrated circuits (Chapter 85, Heading 8542), are classified elsewhere. Diodes that are part of a larger assembly or a printed circuit board may also fall under different classifications depending on the primary function of the assembly.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 854110?

A common error is misclassifying diodes based on their application rather than their inherent function. For instance, a diode intended for rectification might be mistakenly classified under a broader "electronic component" heading if its specific diode nature is overlooked. Another mistake involves confusing diodes with other semiconductor devices like transistors or LEDs, which have distinct HS classifications. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1, which prioritizes headings and section/chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.

How should importers classify products under HS 854110?

The correct procedure for classifying diodes under HS 854110 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the device is indeed a diode and not a photosensitive or light-emitting type. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with WCO Explanatory Notes is essential. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended to ensure accurate classification and avoid penalties.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854110?

A shipment of 10,000 rectifier diodes, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8541.10.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854110?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854110. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), diodes originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry. Similarly, the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can offer reduced or zero duties for diodes originating from certain developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for EU preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

```

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 854141 HS 854130 HS 854121 HS 854160 HS 854151 HS 852412

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 854110 (Diodes, other than photosensitive or light-emitting diodes)?

Import duty rates for HS code 854110 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also often 0.00% for many origins. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for goods originating from many countries. However, some countries may apply higher rates, such as 35% under specific trade regimes or for goods from certain origins not covered by preferential agreements. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and origin of goods using official tariff databases like the USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff.

How is the duty amount calculated for diodes classified under HS 854110?

The duty calculation for diodes under HS 854110 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a country applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate and you import diodes valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 * 3.5% = $350. If a specific duty applied, such as $0.05 per piece, and you imported 5,000 pieces, the duty would be 5,000 * $0.05 = $250. It is crucial to check the specific duty calculation method (ad valorem, specific, or a combination) and the applicable rate for your import.

What documentation is typically required for importing diodes under HS 854110?

Standard import documentation for HS 854110 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the diodes; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Manufacturers' specifications or datasheets might also be requested by customs authorities to verify the classification, especially to distinguish them from photosensitive or light-emitting diodes.

Are there common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 854110?

Yes, many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for diodes (HS 854110). For instance, goods originating from countries that are part of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, imports into the EU from countries with Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) or Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also qualify for preferential treatment. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries and ensure their goods meet the defined rules of origin to claim these benefits.

What are the key classification criteria to ensure diodes are correctly classified under HS 854110?

The primary criterion for HS 854110 is that the semiconductor device must be a diode. Crucially, it must not be a photosensitive diode (like photodiodes or solar cells, typically classified under 854140) or a light-emitting diode (LED, classified under 853951 or 853952 depending on type). Diodes under 854110 are generally used for rectification, switching, voltage regulation, or signal detection, and do not inherently convert light into electricity or emit light when current is applied. Verifying the diode's function and technical specifications against the Chapter 85 notes and the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System is essential for accurate classification.