HS 854420 Coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors
Quick Answer: Coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors imported under HS 854420 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.70%, and the US at 5.3% under the MFN rate. This classification covers cables designed with an inner conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a braided metal shield, and an outer insulating jacket, commonly used for transmitting radio frequency signals. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates in the US for specific trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist with compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544200030 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544200090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544200000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544200030 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544200090 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544200000 | 5.3% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
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 8544.20?
Imports of Coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 854420 cover?
This subheading covers coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are characterized by a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, which is then surrounded by a braided metallic shield, and finally an outer insulating layer. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes cables specifically designed for transmitting high-frequency signals, such as those used in telecommunications, broadcasting, and networking applications, typically featuring impedance matching characteristics.
What falls outside HS 854420?
The following products are excluded from HS 854420: standard electrical wires and cables not possessing the coaxial structure, such as single-core wires or multi-conductor cables without the specific concentric arrangement of conductors and shielding. Also excluded are fiber optic cables, which transmit data via light pulses rather than electrical signals, and specialized cables like twin-axial cables or tri-axial cables if they do not strictly meet the definition of "coaxial" as per the WCO guidelines. For instance, a simple shielded twisted pair cable would not be classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854420?
A common error is misclassifying cables that have some form of shielding but are not truly coaxial. For example, a cable with a single conductor and a general metallic wrap for interference reduction might be incorrectly entered under 854420. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers must verify the specific construction and intended use to ensure it aligns with the coaxial definition, which mandates a central conductor, dielectric insulator, surrounding conductor shield, and outer jacket.
How should importers classify products under HS 854420?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854420 involves a detailed examination of the cable's construction and intended application. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 8544. Key factors include verifying the presence of a central conductor, an insulating dielectric, a surrounding conductive layer (typically braided or foil), and an outer protective sheath. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is advisable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854420?
A 100-meter spool of RG-6 coaxial cable, weighing 10 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $250.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($250.00 USD × 0.05 = $12.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8544.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854420?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854420 (Coaxial cable)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 854420, covering coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors, is typically 3.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods imported from countries with which the U.S. has trade agreements. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS), the duty rate can be as low as Free (0%). It is crucial to consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and specific rates applicable to your country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS 854420 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 854420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of coaxial cable has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 3.70%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.0370 = $370.00 USD. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, which include the price paid or payable, freight, insurance, and other costs incurred in bringing the goods to the U.S. port of entry.
What are the key criteria for classifying goods under HS code 854420?
HS code 854420 specifically covers 'Coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors.' The defining characteristic is the coaxial construction, which involves an inner conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, followed by a tubular conducting shield, and an outer insulating layer. This design is optimized for transmitting radio frequency signals with minimal loss and interference. Goods that do not possess this specific layered, concentric conductor structure, even if used for signal transmission, would likely be classified under different HS codes. For definitive classification, refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (HS) provided by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
What documentation is typically required for importing coaxial cable (HS 854420) into the United States?
When importing coaxial cable under HS code 854420, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Additionally, importers may need to provide product specifications or technical data sheets to confirm the coaxial nature of the cable, especially if questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a Certificate of Origin or other specific declaration as required by the FTA will be necessary.
Which trade agreements commonly offer reduced or duty-free entry for HS 854420 into the US?
Several trade agreements can provide reduced or duty-free entry for coaxial cable (HS 854420) into the United States. Notably, the United States has Free Trade Agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia (AUSFTA), and others that may offer preferential treatment. Goods must meet the rules of origin stipulated in each respective agreement to qualify for these benefits. Importers should verify the specific terms and origin requirements for their country of export by consulting the HTSUS, which lists preferential rates and the corresponding trade agreements, or by contacting CBP directly.