HS 854470 Optical fibre cables
Quick Answer: Optical fibre cables imported under HS 854470 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a 65% ad valorem duty under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers cables composed of individual optical fibres, whether or not they are assembled with electrical conductors or sheathed in insulating or protective material. These are distinct from cables containing only electrical conductors, even if they also contain optical fibres. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between the US and other major markets, which may influence sourcing and logistics decisions. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for global trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544700091 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700099 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700091 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8544700099 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8544700000 | Free | — | ["Fiber m"] |
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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 854470 cover?
This subheading covers optical fibre cables, which are essential components for transmitting light signals. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes cables where individual optical fibres are insulated or sheathed, often with protective layers. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these cables are designed for telecommunications, data transmission, and other applications requiring high-bandwidth, low-loss signal propagation, typically comprising glass or plastic fibres bundled together.
What falls outside HS 854470?
The following products are excluded from HS 854470: individual optical fibres not assembled into cables, electrical cables containing optical fibres alongside electrical conductors (which would be classified under other headings based on their primary function), and optical fibre accessories such as connectors or splices that are not integral parts of the cable assembly. For instance, a simple bundle of optical fibres without any protective sheathing or insulation would not fall under this subheading, nor would a cable primarily designed for electrical power transmission that incidentally contains optical fibres for control purposes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854470?
A common error is misclassifying cables that contain both optical fibres and electrical conductors under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c), when goods are classifiable by two or more headings, the heading which occurs last in numerical order shall be considered. Therefore, if a cable's primary function is electrical transmission, it would be classified under a heading for electrical cables, even if it includes optical fibres. Importers must carefully assess the primary function and construction of the cable to ensure accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 854470?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854470 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. 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 refer to explanatory notes from the WCO. Key factors include confirming that the product consists of optical fibres assembled into a cable and that it is not primarily an electrical cable or a collection of loose fibres. Verifying the presence of insulation or sheathing is also crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854470?
A 10-kilometer spool of "Armored Outdoor Optical Fiber Cable" declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is $5,000 (declared value) × 0.03 (duty rate) = $150.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 8544.70.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854470?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854470, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating optical fibre cables can be imported duty-free into the United States, Canada, and Mexico. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is generally required, detailing the product's origin and compliance with the agreement's rules of origin. For imports into the European Union, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duties for eligible developing countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854470 (Optical fibre cables)?
The import duty rates for HS code 854470, 'Optical fibre cables', vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the United States' 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 importing country. For instance, the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff should be checked for applicable duties within those regions. Some preferential trade agreements may offer duty-free access, while others may not.
How are optical fibre cables classified under HS code 854470, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 854470 specifically covers 'Optical fibre cables'. The primary classification criterion is that the cable must contain optical fibres for the transmission of data or signals. This distinguishes them from electrical cables (covered in other headings like 8544.11 to 8544.69) which transmit electrical energy. The construction of the cable, including sheathing, insulation, and any integrated conductors for electrical purposes, does not typically alter the classification as long as its primary function is optical signal transmission.
What documentation is typically required for importing optical fibre cables under HS code 854470?
Standard import documentation for HS code 854470 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Specific technical specifications or declarations confirming the product's compliance with local standards might also be requested by customs authorities.
How is the import duty for optical fibre cables calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty calculation for HS code 854470 typically involves an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the declared value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if a country imposes a 3.5% ad valorem duty on optical fibre cables, and an importer declares a shipment valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. If a specific duty applies, such as $0.50 per meter, and the shipment contains 500 meters, the duty would be: 500 meters × $0.50/meter = $250 USD. Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and rate from the importing country's official tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 854470?
The duty rates for HS code 854470 can be significantly impacted by various trade agreements. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may provide preferential treatment for goods traded between these North American countries. Similarly, the European Union's trade agreements with third countries, and the UK's post-Brexit trade deals, often include provisions for reduced or zero duties on goods like optical fibre cables. Importers should always check if their goods qualify for preferential treatment under relevant agreements such as the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) by consulting the customs authorities or trade databases of the importing nation.