HS 870210 With only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel)
Quick Answer: Vehicles with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engines (diesel or semi-diesel) imported under HS 870210 enter the UK at rates up to 16.00%, the EU at rates up to 16.00%, and the US at rates up to 25%. This classification specifically applies to motor vehicles designed for the transport of persons, with a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cm³ but not exceeding 2,500 cm³ if fitted with a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel). For the US, preferential duty rates may apply to certain trading partners. Importers and customs brokers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise rates based on vehicle specifications and origin. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to aid in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8702100000 | — | — | — |
| 8702101100 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 8702101900 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 8702109900 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 8702109100 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8702100000 | — | — | — |
| 8702101100 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 8702101900 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 8702109100 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 8702109900 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 870210 | — | — | — |
| 8702106100 | 2% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8702103100 | 2% | Free (18 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 8702.10?
Imports of With only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) 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 870210 cover?
This subheading covers motor vehicles designed for the transport of 10 or more persons, including the driver, which are propelled exclusively by a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine, commonly known as diesel or semi-diesel engines. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category specifically excludes vehicles with spark-ignition engines. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the engine type as the primary classification determinant for these larger passenger vehicles.
What falls outside HS 870210?
The following products are excluded from HS 870210: vehicles powered by spark-ignition internal combustion engines (classified under HS 8702.40), electric vehicles (HS 8702.60), hybrid vehicles (HS 8702.90), and vehicles designed for transporting goods rather than persons. Additionally, motor vehicles designed for fewer than 10 persons, including the driver, are classified under other headings within Chapter 87, such as HS 8703 for passenger cars, even if they utilize a diesel engine.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 870210?
A common error is misclassifying vehicles based on their size or intended use without correctly identifying the engine type. For instance, a large passenger van with a spark-ignition engine would not fall under HS 870210. Furthermore, confusion can arise with multi-purpose vehicles; if the primary design is for transporting 10 or more persons and it uses a compression-ignition engine, it belongs here. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which prioritizes the Section and Chapter Notes and the headings themselves, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 870210?
The correct procedure for classifying vehicles under HS 870210 involves first confirming the vehicle's design capacity for carrying 10 or more persons, including the driver. Subsequently, the engine type must be definitively identified as a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel). Importers and customs brokers should consult the vehicle's technical specifications and the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 870210?
A 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500XD Cargo Van, weighing 3,500 kg and declared at a customs value of $55,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 25% ad valorem, the calculation would be 25% of $55,000, resulting in a duty of $13,750. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for vehicles of this type.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 870210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 870210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to Free duty rates for qualifying vehicles originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates. To claim these preferences, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction, is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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 870210, covering vehicles with compression-ignition engines?
Import duty rates for HS code 870210, which specifically covers motor vehicles with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engines (diesel or semi-diesel), vary by country. For example, the United States applies a 16.00% ad valorem duty. The European Union's TARIC system generally has a rate of 10.00% ad valorem for many countries, but this can be subject to specific trade agreements. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 10.00% ad valorem duty for most imports. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for HS code 870210 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 870210 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the vehicle. For instance, if a diesel-powered bus classified under 870210 has a customs value of $50,000 and the applicable duty rate is 10.00%, the import duty would be $50,000 \times 10.00% = $5,000. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or engine capacity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure a vehicle is correctly classified under HS 870210?
To be classified under HS code 870210, a motor vehicle must meet specific criteria. Primarily, it must be designed for the transport of persons (carrying more than 10 persons including the driver) and be equipped only with a compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine. This means the engine type is exclusively diesel or semi-diesel. Vehicles with spark-ignition engines (like gasoline) or hybrid/electric powertrains would fall under different HS codes. The WCO (World Customs Organization) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the interpretation of 'motor vehicles for the transport of persons' and engine types.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 870210, and what documentation is needed?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 870210. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), vehicles meeting specific rules of origin may qualify for preferential treatment. The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries that can reduce or eliminate duties. The provided sample rates show 'Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' which likely refers to preferential rates under various agreements like CPTPP, EBA, or bilateral FTAs. To claim preferential rates, importers typically need a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the vehicle meets the rules of origin stipulated by the respective trade agreement. Always check the specific requirements of the applicable trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing vehicles under HS 870210?
Yes, in addition to a commercial invoice, bill of lading, and packing list, importing vehicles under HS code 870210 often requires specific documentation. This may include a Certificate of Conformity (COC) to demonstrate compliance with safety and environmental standards of the importing country, a technical data sheet detailing the vehicle's specifications (especially engine type), and potentially import permits or licenses depending on the destination country's regulations. For vehicles claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Customs brokers should be consulted to ensure all necessary documents are prepared accurately to avoid delays or penalties.