HS 880621 Other, for remote-controlled flight only
Quick Answer: Aircraft for remote-controlled flight only, classified under HS 880621, enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 0.00% or 7.50% ad valorem depending on specific subheadings, and the US at 30% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically pertains to unmanned aircraft designed for flight solely under remote control, excluding those with onboard pilots or autonomous flight capabilities. Importers should carefully review the specific EU and US tariff lines to determine the precise duty applicable. According to CustomTariffs data, significant duty rate variations exist, necessitating careful consideration for trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8806210000 | — | — | — |
| 8806219000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8806219090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8806211000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8806219010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8806210000 | — | — | — |
| 8806211000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8806219000 | — | — | — |
| 8806219010 | — | — | — |
| 8806219090 | 7.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8806210000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 880621 cover?
This subheading covers other aircraft of heading 8806 designed exclusively for remote-controlled flight. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones intended for operation without a human pilot onboard, controlled via radio signals or other remote means. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this, specifying that these are typically used for recreational, commercial, or industrial purposes, excluding those designed for manned flight or autonomous operation without continuous remote input.
What falls outside HS 880621?
The following products are excluded from HS 880621: aircraft designed for manned flight, even if they possess some remote control capabilities. This also excludes fully autonomous aircraft that operate without continuous remote pilot input, as well as toys that are essentially simple models and do not possess the sophistication of a remotely piloted aircraft system. For instance, simple radio-controlled model airplanes or helicopters not capable of carrying significant payloads or performing complex tasks would typically be classified under other headings, such as 9503 for toys.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 880621?
A common error is misinterpreting the "remote-controlled flight only" criterion. Importers may incorrectly classify aircraft that have a pilot's cabin or are capable of carrying a pilot, even if they are frequently operated remotely. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. It is crucial to ascertain if the aircraft is *exclusively* designed for remote control, meaning it cannot be piloted from within.
How should importers classify products under HS 880621?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 880621 involves a thorough examination of the aircraft's design and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the aircraft is designed solely for remote operation and cannot accommodate a pilot. Reviewing manufacturer specifications, technical manuals, and product descriptions is essential. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC for specific product examples and explanatory notes will ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 880621?
A DJI Mavic 3 drone weighing 0.895 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,800 USD would attract a US duty of $90.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $1,800 = $90.00. This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8806.21.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 880621?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 880621, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying 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 Japan and Singapore. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 880621, covering other aircraft for remote-controlled flight only?
For HS code 880621, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is 0.00% ad valorem, as per the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The European Union's TARIC system also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. In the United Kingdom, the duty rate is Free. It is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable to your country of import, as rates can vary based on trade agreements and origin.
How is HS code 880621 defined, and what are the key classification criteria for remote-controlled aircraft?
HS code 880621 falls under the broader category of 'Other aircraft of an unladen weight exceeding 2,000 kg, but not exceeding 15,000 kg' (8806.2). The distinguishing factor for 880621 is that these aircraft are 'for remote-controlled flight only'. This means the aircraft must be designed and intended solely for operation by remote control, without an onboard pilot. Classification hinges on the aircraft's unladen weight (between 2,000 kg and 15,000 kg) and its exclusive remote-controlled operational capability. Aircraft capable of carrying a pilot, even if also capable of remote control, would be classified elsewhere.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 880621?
When importing aircraft under HS code 880621, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Specific to this classification, importers may need to provide a manufacturer's declaration or technical specifications confirming the aircraft's unladen weight and its design for remote-controlled flight only. Depending on the importing country's regulations, an import license or permit from aviation authorities might also be necessary. It is advisable to consult the customs authority of the importing country for a comprehensive list of requirements.
Do any major trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 880621?
While HS code 880621 often carries a 0.00% duty rate under the standard MFN tariff in major markets like the US and EU, trade agreements can still be relevant. For instance, if an aircraft originates from a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country, and the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in that agreement, preferential treatment (often confirming the 0.00% rate or providing other benefits) can be secured. Importers should always check the specific rules of origin for any applicable trade agreement to confirm eligibility for preferential duty rates, even if the MFN rate is already zero.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 880621 if a duty rate other than 0.00% applies?
Import duty for HS code 880621 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods). For example, if an aircraft classified under 880621 has a declared customs value of $500,000 and the applicable duty rate is 7.50% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this scenario, the duty would be $500,000 × 0.0750 = $37,500. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per unit) were applicable, the calculation would be Duty Amount = Quantity × Specific Duty Rate per Unit. Always ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to international valuation rules.