HS 854449 Other
Quick Answer: Electrical wire, cable, and cords, insulated, enter the UK at rates up to 2.00%, the EU at rates up to 3.70%, and the US at rates up to 40% under MFN. This classification, HS 8544.49, covers "other" insulated electrical conductors not specified in preceding headings within Chapter 85. This broad residual category often includes specialized cables, multi-conductor cords, or those with unique insulation materials or constructions. Importers should carefully review specific product details against the subheadings within 8544.49 in each jurisdiction's tariff schedule to determine the precise duty rate, as rates can vary significantly. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise classification for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544492000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544499100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544490000 | — | — | — |
| 8544499320 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544499390 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544499330 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544490000 | — | — | — |
| 8544492000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544499100 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544499300 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 854449 | — | — | — |
| 8544492000 | 3.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 8544493040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 8544499000 | 3.9% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 8544491000 | Free | — | ["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 8544.49?
Imports of Other 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, GSP, and 15 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 854449 cover?
This subheading covers insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors, not specified or included elsewhere in heading 8544. This includes a broad range of wires and cables designed for transmitting electrical energy or information, excluding those with specific characteristics like optical fibers or those designed for particular applications covered by more specific subheadings. The World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Nomenclature guides classification based on the absence of specific exclusions and the general nature of the conductor's insulation and construction.
What falls outside HS 854449?
The following products are excluded from HS 854449: optical fiber cables (HS 854470), electric conductors for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V (HS 854460), and insulated electric conductors for specific uses like ignition or starter systems for spark-ignition internal combustion engines (HS 854430). Also excluded are cables and wires of a kind used for telecommunications or electric telegraphy (HS 854420) if they meet the specific criteria for those headings, and uninsulated wires (HS 7408, 854410).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854449?
A common error is misclassifying cables that have specific applications or constructions that warrant classification under more precise subheadings within 8544 or even other headings entirely. For instance, cables designed for data transmission might be mistakenly classified here if their primary function is not power transmission. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3, is crucial to ensure the most specific heading or subheading is applied.
How should importers classify products under HS 854449?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854449 involves a detailed examination of the product's construction, intended use, and insulation material. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the Explanatory Notes to HS Heading 8544 and then review the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, for any further subdivisions or specific rulings. If the product is an insulated electrical conductor not otherwise specified, and does not meet the criteria for more specific subheadings, then 854449 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854449?
A 100-meter spool of 12-gauge insulated copper wire, declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $1.75. This is calculated using the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50.00 USD × 0.035 = $1.75). This specific rate is found under HTSUS code 8544.49.2000 for "Other" insulated conductors, not elsewhere specified, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854449?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854449, 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 duties for eligible goods from developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854449, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 854449 covers 'Other' insulated electric conductors. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate can vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 1.7% ad valorem, but can be higher or lower depending on specific product characteristics and origin. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff typically shows a rate of 2.0% ad valorem. Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, under the USMCA, certain goods may enter duty-free. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their country of import and the origin of the goods, as well as any applicable preferential agreements.
What specific criteria determine if an insulated electric conductor falls under HS code 854449?
HS code 854449 is a residual category for insulated electric conductors not specifically classified elsewhere in heading 85.44. This heading covers 'Insulated (including enamelled or anodised) electric wire, cable (including co-axial cable) and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors; optical fibre cables, of copper or of aluminium, or of other materials; composite copper-aluminium cables; cables of optical fibres, and other cables, of insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors.' Therefore, 854449 applies to any insulated electric conductor that does not fit more specific subheadings, such as those for single insulated wires, cables with multiple insulated conductors, or specific types like co-axial cables. Key factors for classification include the conductor material (copper, aluminum, etc.), insulation type, whether it's a single conductor or a cable assembly, and its intended use if it deviates from common applications.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 854449?
Standard import documentation for HS code 854449 includes a commercial invoice detailing the 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 for transportation. Depending on the country of import and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under an FTA. Safety and compliance certificates, such as CE marking for the EU or UL certification for the US, might also be necessary to demonstrate that the electrical products meet relevant safety standards. Importers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 854449, using a concrete example?
The duty calculation for HS code 854449 is typically based on an ad valorem rate, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of insulated electric cable is valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate for HS 854449 in the importing country is 3.5%, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. In this case, $10,000 USD × 3.5% = $350 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, especially for certain types of cables or if specific trade measures are in place. Always refer to the official tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact duty calculation method.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for products classified under HS code 854449?
Several major trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 854449. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often allows for duty-free entry for qualifying goods. The EU's network of Free Trade Agreements with countries like South Korea, Japan, and Canada can also reduce or eliminate duties. Similarly, the UK's Global Tariff incorporates preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the UK has trade agreements. Importers should consult the specific rules of origin and preferential tariff provisions within the relevant trade agreement to determine eligibility for reduced duties. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides a framework, but specific rates and conditions are detailed in each bilateral or regional agreement.