HS 854610 Of glass
Quick Answer: Electrical insulators of glass imported under HS 854610 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates varying from Free to 50% depending on the country of origin. This classification specifically covers electrical insulators manufactured entirely from glass. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities across major trading blocs, particularly the high potential duties in the US. Consulting specific country tariff schedules via resources like CustomTariffs is crucial for accurate duty assessment and to leverage any preferential trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8546100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8546100000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8546100000 | 2.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
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 8546.10?
Imports of Of glass 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 14 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 854610 cover?
This subheading covers electrical insulators of glass, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Specifically, it encompasses all types of insulators made from glass that are designed for electrical purposes, such as those used in power transmission lines, substations, and electrical equipment. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that glass insulators, regardless of their specific design or application within electrical systems, fall under this classification when their primary function is insulation.
What falls outside HS 854610?
The following products are excluded from HS 854610: electrical insulators made from materials other than glass, such as ceramic or plastic. Additionally, glass articles that are not primarily designed for electrical insulation, even if they might incidentally be used in an electrical context, are classified elsewhere. For instance, glass bulbs for lighting fixtures (HS 9405) or glass components for electronic devices that are not insulators (e.g., display screens) are not included in this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 854610?
A common error is misclassifying glass articles that have a secondary electrical insulating function but are primarily designed for another purpose. For example, glass components of electrical appliances that serve a structural or protective role rather than a primary insulating role might be incorrectly classified here. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are described by several headings or subheadings, they should be classified according to the material or component that gives them their essential character, which in this case must be electrical insulation.
How should importers classify products under HS 854610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854610 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed an electrical insulator and that it is manufactured from glass. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854610?
A shipment of 1,000 glass electrical insulators, each weighing 0.5 kg, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $350. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 7.0% × $5,000 USD = $350 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 854610.1000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854610?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854610, 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 like Vietnam. Documentation required to claim these preferences typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a certificate of origin for CPTPP, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 854610 (Electrical insulators of glass)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for electrical insulators of glass, classified under HS code 854610, is 3.70% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries that do not have a specific preferential trade agreement with the importing country. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin with the official tariff schedule.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 854610?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS code 854610 based on trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). These rates are typically subject to rules of origin and require proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to be claimed. Consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for a comprehensive list of eligible countries and their respective preferential rates.
How is the duty for HS code 854610 calculated if it's an ad valorem rate?
Ad valorem duties are calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if electrical insulators of glass (HS 854610) are imported with a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.70%, the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.0370 (Duty Rate) = $370.00. It is crucial to ensure the customs value is correctly declared and includes all elements as per the valuation rules of the importing country.
What documentation is typically required for importing electrical insulators of glass under HS code 854610?
Standard import documentation for HS code 854610 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. If claiming preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin documentation demonstrating compliance with the relevant trade agreement's rules of origin is mandatory. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific product, additional certifications related to safety standards or electrical compliance might also be required.
What are the classification criteria for goods under HS code 854610?
HS code 854610 specifically covers 'Electrical insulators of glass'. The key classification criteria are that the item must be designed for electrical insulation purposes and be made primarily of glass. This excludes insulators made from other materials like ceramic or plastic, which would fall under different HS codes. The product's function as an insulator in electrical systems is paramount for correct classification.