HS 871160 With electric motor for propulsion
Quick Answer: Motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles with electric motors for propulsion, classified under HS code 871160, enter the UK and EU at a 6.00% ad valorem duty rate. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for this classification is 10% ad valorem, though certain electric bicycles may qualify for duty-free entry under specific provisions. This classification specifically captures vehicles where an electric motor is the primary means of propulsion, distinguishing them from those with auxiliary electric assistance. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific product details against the respective tariff schedules to ensure accurate classification and duty assessment, referencing resources like CustomTariffs for aggregated data.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8711609090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711600000 | — | — | — |
| 8711601000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711609000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711609010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8711600000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711601000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711609000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711609010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 8711609090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87116000 | Free | — | — |
| 8711600050 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8711600090 | — | — | ["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 871160 cover?
This subheading covers motorcycles, including mopeds, with an electric motor for propulsion, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes electric bicycles and electric scooters that meet the criteria of a motorcycle or moped, typically characterized by having two or three wheels and a seat or saddle. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the primary means of propulsion must be an electric motor, distinguishing them from vehicles with auxiliary electric assistance. These vehicles are designed for personal transportation and are distinct from electric wheelchairs or other specialized mobility devices.
What falls outside HS 871160?
The following products are excluded from HS 871160: electric bicycles or scooters that are solely pedal-assisted and do not have a dedicated electric motor for propulsion, or where the electric motor's primary function is to assist pedaling rather than provide independent propulsion. Also excluded are electric wheelchairs, electric skateboards, and electric unicycles, which are typically classified under different headings based on their specific design and intended use, such as heading 8713 for wheelchairs. Vehicles with internal combustion engines, even if they incorporate electric components for functions like starting or lighting, are also not classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 871160?
A common error is misinterpreting the primary means of propulsion. For instance, electric bicycles that are primarily pedal-powered with an electric motor acting as an assist, rather than a primary drive, may be incorrectly classified under 871160. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are presented in sets, they are classified according to the component that gives them their essential character. Importers must carefully assess whether the electric motor is the principal source of power for propulsion, as opposed to a supplementary feature.
How should importers classify products under HS 871160?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 871160 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the vehicle is equipped with an electric motor for propulsion and that this motor is the primary means of movement. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO are crucial steps. If ambiguity exists, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 871160?
A 2023 electric scooter weighing 25 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.15 = $75.00). It is important to note that specific weights or dimensions might also influence duty calculations in some jurisdictions or for specific product types, but for many electric scooters, the ad valorem rate on value is primary.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 871160?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 871160, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can offer duty-free entry for qualifying products originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement can also provide preferential rates, potentially "Free," for goods meeting rules of origin and originating from the EU or UK. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK trade, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 871160 (motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles with electric motor for propulsion)?
Import duty rates for HS code 871160 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, such as Canada or Mexico under USMCA, might have a 0% duty rate, provided all rules of origin are met. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and any applicable trade agreements for precise rates.
What specific criteria determine if a two-wheeled vehicle falls under HS code 871160 'with electric motor for propulsion'?
HS code 871160 specifically covers two- or three-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles, that are propelled by an electric motor. Key classification criteria include: 1. The presence of an electric motor for propulsion. 2. The vehicle's design as a motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle (or tricycle). 3. The motor's primary role in propulsion, distinguishing it from electric assistance systems that merely supplement pedaling (which might fall under other headings, e.g., 8711.60.00 for bicycles with auxiliary electric motor in some tariff systems). The WCO's Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings provide further guidance on distinguishing between primary propulsion and auxiliary assistance.
How is the import duty for HS code 871160 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 871160 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of electric scooters classified under HS 871160 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.06 (Duty Rate) = $600. In some jurisdictions, specific duties based on weight or unit might also apply, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the duty calculation basis in the importing country's tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 871160?
Standard import documentation for HS code 871160 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement), product safety certifications (e.g., CE marking for the EU, UL certification for the US), technical specifications of the electric motor and battery, and potentially import licenses or permits. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list.
Which major trade agreements commonly impact duty rates for HS code 871160?
Several major trade agreements can significantly affect duty rates for HS code 871160. For instance, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides for preferential or duty-free treatment for goods originating from these North American countries, subject to rules of origin. The European Union's Common External Tariff (CET) applies to imports into the EU, but trade agreements with third countries (e.g., Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement - CETA with Canada) can offer reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the UK's Global Tariff incorporates various preferential rates based on trade deals. Importers must verify the origin of their goods and consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's tariff schedule to determine eligibility for preferential rates.