HS 854460 Other electric conductors, for a voltage exceeding 1 000 V
Quick Answer: Other electric conductors for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.70%, and the US at 3.7% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers insulated electrical wires and cables designed for high-voltage applications, typically above 1 kilovolt, used in power transmission and distribution systems. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific conductor materials and insulation types, as well as preferential trade agreements that may offer reduced or duty-free entry in certain jurisdictions. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544600000 | — | — | — |
| 8544601000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544601010 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544601090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8544609000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544600000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544601000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544601010 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544601090 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 8544609000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544602000 | 3.7% | Free (19 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8544606000 | 3.2% | Free (19 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 854460 | — | — | — |
| 8544604000 | 3.5% | Free (19 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 8544.60?
Imports of Other electric conductors, for a voltage exceeding 1 000 V 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 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 854460 cover?
This subheading covers electric conductors specifically designed for a voltage exceeding 1,000 volts. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category includes high-voltage cables and wires, such as those used in power transmission and distribution networks, industrial machinery operating at high voltages, and specialized electrical equipment. The key defining characteristic is the voltage rating, which must be greater than 1,000 V.
What falls outside HS 854460?
The following products are excluded from HS 854460: electric conductors designed for voltages of 1,000 volts or less (which fall under HS 854442 or other subheadings within 8544), insulated wire for motor vehicles (HS 854430), and ignition wiring sets and other wiring sets (HS 854430). Additionally, bare copper wire, even if intended for high-voltage applications, is typically classified under HS 7408, unless it is specifically insulated or otherwise constructed as a conductor for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854460?
A common error is misinterpreting the voltage threshold. Importers may incorrectly classify conductors rated at or below 1,000 V under this subheading, or conversely, classify high-voltage conductors under subheadings for lower voltages. This often stems from a misunderstanding of General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Accurate identification of the product's maximum operating voltage is paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 854460?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854460 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications, particularly its rated voltage. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and review the wording of heading 8544 and its subheadings. Verification of the product's intended use and voltage rating against the WCO Explanatory Notes is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854460?
A 100-meter spool of 15 kV underground power cable weighing 250 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $1,500 = $75.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 854460.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854460?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854460. For instance, under the USMCA, cables originating from Mexico or Canada may be eligible for duty-free entry. Similarly, for imports into the EU, cables originating from countries with a preferential trade agreement, such as Switzerland, may benefit from reduced or zero duties, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate. The specific preferential rate and required documentation depend on the origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854460, 'Other electric conductors, for a voltage exceeding 1,000 V'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 854460 can vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the MFN rate is 3.70%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 2.00% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists a general rate of 3.70%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for HS 854460 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 854460 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if you import 100 meters of electric cable valued at $5.00 per meter into the United States, the total value is $500.00. With a 3.70% MFN duty rate, the duty amount would be $500.00 \times 0.0370 = $18.50.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 854460?
The primary criterion for classifying goods under HS code 854460 is that they are 'other electric conductors' not elsewhere specified in Chapter 85. Crucially, these conductors must be designed for use with a voltage exceeding 1,000 V. This distinguishes them from conductors for lower voltages, which fall under different HS codes. The insulation material, conductor material (e.g., copper, aluminum), and construction are also considered, but the voltage rating is the defining factor.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 854460?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 854460. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods may qualify for duty-free entry if they meet the rules of origin. Other agreements, such as those between the EU and certain countries (e.g., Switzerland, Norway), or the UK's trade deals with various partners, can also reduce or eliminate duties. The provided sample rates indicate 'Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,JP,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' which suggests preferential access under various bilateral or regional trade agreements for those listed country codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing electric conductors under HS code 854460?
Standard import documentation for HS code 854460 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Additionally, importers may need to provide technical specifications or test reports to confirm the voltage rating (exceeding 1,000 V) and ensure compliance with national electrical safety standards. Customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the destination country's customs authority.