HS 870530 Fire fighting vehicles
Quick Answer: Fire fighting vehicles imported under HS 870530 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at either Free or 25% ad valorem depending on specific circumstances. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers vehicles designed and equipped for fire-fighting purposes, such as fire trucks and aerial ladder trucks, which are not primarily designed for other uses. Importers should be aware of potential variations in US duty rates and consult specific product details to determine the applicable tariff. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8705300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8705300000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8705300000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 870530 cover?
This subheading covers specialized motor vehicles designed and equipped for fire-fighting. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes vehicles equipped with water pumps, foam tanks, ladders, and other essential fire suppression equipment. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are vehicles primarily constructed for the specific purpose of extinguishing fires, often featuring integrated water tanks and pumping systems.
What falls outside HS 870530?
The following products are excluded from HS 870530: general-purpose trucks or chassis that have been merely adapted for fire-fighting duties without being specifically designed and equipped as such, or vehicles used for related but distinct purposes like emergency medical response or hazardous material containment. For instance, a standard truck fitted with a basic water sprayer for dust suppression would not be classified here, nor would ambulances or specialized rescue vehicles not primarily intended for fire suppression.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 870530?
A common error is misclassifying vehicles that are equipped with some fire-fighting apparatus but are not primarily designed for that function. For example, a utility vehicle with a small water tank and pump for agricultural spraying might be incorrectly entered under this code. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the primary design and function of the vehicle.
How should importers classify products under HS 870530?
The correct procedure for classifying vehicles under HS 870530 involves a thorough examination of the vehicle's design, specifications, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the vehicle is purpose-built for fire-fighting, possessing integral equipment such as high-capacity pumps, water or foam tanks, and specialized control systems. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing technical documentation provided by the manufacturer is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 870530?
A Rosenbauer Commander 3000 fire engine weighing 20,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $500,000 USD would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $0. This is because fire-fighting vehicles under HTSUS code 8705.30.00 are typically dutiable at 0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is therefore 0% × $500,000 = $0.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 870530?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 870530, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of "Free" for qualifying vehicles originating from Canada or Mexico, requiring a self-certified origin statement. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also allows for preferential treatment, potentially leading to a "Free" duty rate for vehicles originating from the EU or UK, typically requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```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 870530 (Fire fighting vehicles) into the United States?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for fire fighting vehicles under HS code 870530 entering the United States is 25.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For example, vehicles imported from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may be eligible for duty-free entry, provided they meet the rules of origin. Always consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS) for the most current and specific rates applicable to your import.
How is the import duty for a fire fighting vehicle (HS 870530) calculated in the EU?
In the European Union, the duty for HS code 870530 is typically 0.00% ad valorem. This means no customs duty is levied on these vehicles. The classification is based on the EU's Combined Nomenclature (CN), which aligns with the WCO's Harmonized System. Importers should verify the specific tariff treatment in the TARIC database for the destination Member State, as occasional anti-dumping duties or other measures could theoretically apply, though they are uncommon for this specific code.
What specific features define a vehicle as a 'fire fighting vehicle' for HS classification purposes?
For HS code 870530, a vehicle is classified as a fire fighting vehicle if it is specifically designed and equipped for fire fighting. This typically includes features such as a permanently mounted pump, a water or foam tank, and hose-carrying capabilities. The vehicle's primary purpose must be fire suppression. Vehicles that are merely adapted for occasional fire fighting or that carry equipment but lack the specialized integrated systems (like pumps) may be classified elsewhere, often under motor vehicles for the transport of persons or goods (Chapter 87).
Are there any specific documentation requirements when importing fire fighting vehicles under HS 870530 into the UK?
When importing fire fighting vehicles (HS 870530) into the United Kingdom, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Additionally, importers may need to provide a declaration or certification confirming the vehicle's specific function as a fire fighting apparatus. While the standard duty rate is 0.00% under the UK Global Tariff, specific safety or emissions certifications might be required depending on the vehicle's age and origin. Always check the latest guidance on the UK Trade Tariff website.
Can you provide a numerical example of how duty is calculated for a fire fighting vehicle imported into a country with a 3.70% duty rate?
Certainly. If a fire fighting vehicle classified under HS 870530 has a declared customs value of $150,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.70% ad valorem, the duty calculation would be as follows: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. Duty Amount = $150,000 × 0.0370 = $5,550. Therefore, the import duty payable would be $5,550. This calculation assumes the duty is based solely on the value of the vehicle.