HS 854233 Amplifiers
Quick Answer: Electronic integrated circuits, specifically amplifiers, imported under HS 854233 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the United States applies a 35% Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rate. This classification covers a wide range of semiconductor devices designed to increase the amplitude of a signal, including operational amplifiers (op-amps), audio amplifiers, and radio frequency (RF) amplifiers. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between the US and other major markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific tariff lines and any applicable trade agreements for accurate customs declarations and duty calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8542330000 | — | — | — |
| 8542331000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8542339000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8542330000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8542331000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8542339000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8542330001 | Free | — | ["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?
What products does HS 854233 cover?
This subheading covers electronic integrated circuits known as "amplifiers," which are designed to increase the amplitude of a signal. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category includes operational amplifiers, audio amplifiers, and radio-frequency amplifiers, provided they are presented as single integrated circuits or in modules. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these are typically semiconductor devices performing amplification functions.
What falls outside HS 854233?
The following products are excluded from HS 854233: complete audio or radio-frequency equipment that contains amplifiers but are classified under their specific end-use headings (e.g., heading 8518 for loudspeakers or 8527 for radio receivers), discrete semiconductor devices solely for amplification (like transistors or vacuum tubes classified under 8541), and integrated circuits performing functions other than amplification, such as microprocessors or memory chips. Amplifiers integrated into larger systems or appliances are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854233?
A common error is misclassifying integrated circuits that have amplification as one of several functions. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, when goods are classifiable by two or more headings, the heading that describes the essential character of the goods shall be taken. If an integrated circuit primarily performs a digital processing function with a secondary amplification capability, it would likely not be classified under 854233 but under the heading for its primary function, such as 854231 for processors.
How should importers classify products under HS 854233?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854233 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended function. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. It is crucial to determine if the product is an "electronic integrated circuit" and if its primary function is amplification, ensuring it meets the specific criteria for this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854233?
A batch of 10,000 units of a Texas Instruments LM386 audio amplifier IC, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.05 = $250.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 854233.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854233?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854233, 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 self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 854233 (Amplifiers)?
The duty rates for HS code 854233, which covers electronic integrated circuits, specifically amplifiers, vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0.00%. However, other countries may have different rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country. For instance, the EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed rate information, including preferential rates for goods originating from countries with trade agreements.
How is the duty for HS code 854233 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 854233 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). If it's ad valorem, the formula is: Duty = (Customs Value of Goods) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if the customs value of imported amplifiers is $10,000 and the ad valorem duty rate is 3.5%, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.035 = $350. If the duty is specific, it would be: Duty = (Quantity of Goods) × (Specific Duty Rate per Unit). Always verify the basis of duty calculation in the destination country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 854233?
HS code 854233 falls under Chapter 85 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles.' Specifically, 854233 pertains to 'Electronic integrated circuits' that function as amplifiers. Classification hinges on the item being an integrated circuit designed for signal amplification. Importers must ensure the product's technical specifications and intended function align with the Explanatory Notes for HS heading 8542 and subheading 854233 to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 854233?
Standard documentation for importing electronic integrated circuits (amplifiers) under HS code 854233 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially technical specifications or datasheets to confirm the classification. Some countries may also require specific import licenses or declarations related to electronic components or safety standards.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 854233?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 854233 are often available through various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For example, goods originating from countries that are signatories to 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, the EU has numerous FTAs with countries worldwide, and the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers should consult the relevant trade agreement text and the destination country's tariff database (like EU TARIC or UK Trade Tariff) to determine eligibility and claim preferential treatment.