HS 854620 Of ceramics

Quick Answer: Electrical insulators of ceramics imported under HS 854620 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from 3% to 60% ad valorem, with numerous preferential free trade agreements available. This classification specifically covers electrical insulators manufactured from ceramic materials, excluding those made from porcelain or glass. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities between major trading blocs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates based on origin and destination.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8546200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8546200000 4.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8546200030 — — ["No."]
8546200090 — — ["No."]
85462000 3% Free (19 programs) —
8546200060 — — ["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 8546.20?

Imports of Of ceramics 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?

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What products does HS 854620 cover?

This subheading covers electrical insulators of ceramics, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) Nomenclature. According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification applies to insulating fittings and other electrical insulators made entirely or in part of ceramic materials, designed for use in electrical apparatus, systems, or installations to prevent the flow of electricity. Examples include ceramic bushings, stand-off insulators, and pin-type insulators used in power transmission and distribution.

What falls outside HS 854620?

The following products are excluded from HS 854620: electrical insulators made from materials other than ceramics, such as glass, rubber, or plastics, which would be classified under different headings within Chapter 85. Additionally, ceramic articles that are not primarily designed for electrical insulation purposes, even if they possess some insulating properties, are excluded. For instance, ceramic components for electronic devices that are not insulators, or ceramic structural components, would fall under different HS codes, such as those for parts of electronic integrated circuits or ceramic building materials.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 854620?

A common error is misclassifying composite insulators where the primary insulating material is not ceramic, or where ceramic is used only as a structural component rather than the primary insulating medium. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are classifiable by virtue of being composed of different materials, the classification is determined by the material that gives them their essential character. Importers may also incorrectly classify ceramic insulators with integrated metal fittings under this code, when the overall classification might be dictated by the metal components if they impart the essential character.

How should importers classify products under HS 854620?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 854620 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition and intended function. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed an electrical insulator and that its primary insulating material is ceramic. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing explanatory notes from the WCO are crucial steps. If the product is a composite, determine which material provides the essential character for insulation.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 854620?

A batch of 1,000 ceramic stand-off insulators, each weighing 0.2 kg, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem applied to the customs value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). While weight is provided, the ad valorem rate dictates the duty based on value for this specific classification in the US HTS.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 854620?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 854620, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for goods from member countries like Japan. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required, depending on the origin country and the specific agreement's rules of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 854610 HS 854690 HS 854710 HS 854520 HS 854160 HS 854720

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 854620, specifically for goods 'of ceramics'?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 854620, covering electrical insulators of ceramics, can vary significantly. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the MFN rate is 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate this duty. For example, imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), or South Korea (KR) may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates, often listed as 'Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,JP,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' in tariff schedules, indicating eligibility for preferential treatment under specific trade pacts. Always consult the relevant tariff schedule for the specific country of import and the origin of the goods to determine the applicable duty rate.

How is the import duty for ceramic electrical insulators (HS 854620) calculated, and can you provide an example?

The import duty for HS code 854620 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem and you import ceramic electrical insulators valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. In this case, $10,000 USD × 3.5% = $350 USD. If a specific duty (e.g., per unit) or a compound duty (ad valorem plus specific) applies, the calculation would be adjusted accordingly. Always verify the exact duty calculation method and rate for your specific import scenario.

What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 854620 'Of ceramics'?

To be classified under HS code 854620, the goods must meet two primary criteria: 1. Function: They must be electrical insulators. This means their primary purpose is to prevent the flow of electricity. Examples include insulators used in power lines, electrical equipment, and machinery. 2. Material: They must be made of ceramics. Ceramics, in this context, refer to inorganic, non-metallic solids prepared by the action of heat and subsequent cooling. This includes traditional ceramics like porcelain and stoneware, as well as advanced technical ceramics. Goods that are primarily insulators but made of other materials (e.g., glass, plastic) would be classified under different HS codes (e.g., 854610 for glass, 854690 for other materials).

What documentation is typically required for importing ceramic electrical insulators under HS code 854620?

Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 854620 generally includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document. 4. Certificate of Origin: Crucial for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. 5. Import Declaration: Filed with customs authorities. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional certifications related to electrical safety standards or material composition might be required. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs regulations for a comprehensive list.

Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 854620, and how can importers leverage them?

Several major trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 854620, provided the goods originate from a member country. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), agreements with South Korea (KORUS FTA), and Australia (AUSFTA). To leverage these agreements, importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) from the exporter, confirming that the ceramic electrical insulators meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. This COO must be presented to customs at the time of import. Importers should work closely with their foreign suppliers to ensure compliance with origin requirements and to secure the necessary documentation. Consulting the specific trade agreement text and the importing country's customs guidance is essential.