HS 890200 Seagoing
Quick Answer: Vessels and craft, other than those of heading 8901 or 8902, enter the UK duty-free, the US duty-free, and the EU at rates including 0.00% and 1.70% ad valorem. This HS code encompasses a variety of seagoing vessels, excluding those specifically for pleasure or sports, and those for the transport of persons or goods. Importers should note that while many major markets offer duty-free entry for certain categories within this heading, specific subheadings and national interpretations can lead to differing tariff treatments. Consulting detailed tariff schedules is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8902001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8902009000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8902001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8902009000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8902000000 | 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 890200 cover?
This subheading covers "Seagoing" vessels, specifically fishing vessels and factory ships. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses vessels designed for commercial fishing operations, including those equipped for processing or preserving fish at sea. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database further refine this to include vessels primarily intended for catching, processing, and preserving fish and other marine products, excluding those for sport fishing.
What falls outside HS 890200?
The following products are excluded from HS 890200: vessels not primarily intended for commercial fishing, such as pleasure craft, yachts, and recreational fishing boats. Also excluded are vessels designed for other maritime activities like transport, research, or military purposes. For instance, a vessel solely used for transporting fish from a fishing ground to shore, without onboard processing capabilities, would likely be classified under a different heading, such as those for cargo ships.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 890200?
A common error is misclassifying vessels that have some fishing capabilities but are primarily designed for other purposes, or vice-versa. For example, a research vessel equipped with some fishing gear but whose main function is scientific exploration might be incorrectly classified under 890200. Conversely, a dedicated factory ship that also carries passengers might be misclassified if its primary function isn't processing marine products. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods or mixed consignments is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 890200?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 890200 involves a thorough examination of the vessel's design, intended use, and primary function. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes of the WCO HS. Key considerations include the vessel's equipment for catching, processing, and preserving marine life, and its overall operational purpose.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 890200?
A 1,500 gross tonnage fishing trawler declared at a customs value of $5,000,000 USD would attract a US duty of $0. This is because, under the US HTS, vessels of this type are generally duty-free when imported by US citizens or corporations for use in the US fisheries. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule confirms this duty-free status for qualifying vessels, meaning the applicable MFN duty rate of 0% results in zero duty payable.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 890200?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 890200, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying vessels originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. While not directly applicable to fishing vessels, other agreements like the EU's trade deals with certain countries might offer preferential rates for specific maritime equipment, but direct vessel entry preferences are less common.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the import duty for HS code 890200 (Seagoing vessels, including warships, lifeboats and landing craft)?
The duty rates for HS code 890200 vary by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. The EU's TARIC system also generally lists a 0.00% duty for most seagoing vessels under this heading. The UK Trade Tariff similarly shows a 0.00% duty for many vessels in this category. However, specific subheadings or types of vessels might have different rates, and preferential rates under trade agreements could also apply. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
What specific types of vessels are classified under HS code 890200?
HS code 890200 covers a broad range of seagoing vessels. This includes, but is not limited to, warships, cargo ships, passenger ships, tankers, fishing vessels, tugs, icebreakers, and specialized vessels designed for offshore operations. It also encompasses lifeboats and landing craft, provided they are designed for seagoing use. Vessels primarily designed for inland waterways would typically fall under a different heading. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
Are there any specific documentation requirements for importing seagoing vessels under HS code 890200?
Yes, importing seagoing vessels often requires extensive documentation beyond standard customs declarations. This can include proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale, previous registration documents), vessel registration papers from the country of origin or previous flag state, classification society certificates (e.g., from Lloyd's Register, DNV), safety certificates, tonnage certificates, and potentially specific permits or licenses depending on the vessel's type and intended use. Importers should verify the exact requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
How are import duties calculated for seagoing vessels, and can you provide an example?
While many countries have a 0.00% duty rate for HS 890200, if a duty were applicable, it would typically be calculated based on the vessel's value (ad valorem) or sometimes its tonnage. For instance, if a country applied a 1.70% ad valorem duty on a seagoing vessel valued at $5,000,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $5,000,000 (Value) × 1.70% (Duty Rate) = $85,000 USD (Duty Amount). If the duty were based on tonnage, the calculation would be: [Tonnage] × [Rate per Ton]. It is crucial to confirm the basis of duty calculation (value, tonnage, or specific unit) and the applicable rate from the official tariff schedule.
Do trade agreements, such as free trade agreements (FTAs), typically affect the duty rates for HS code 890200?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly affect duty rates for HS code 890200. Many FTAs offer preferential duty rates, often reducing them to 0.00% for goods originating from member countries. For example, if a seagoing vessel originates from a country that has an FTA with the importing country, and the vessel meets the rules of origin criteria specified in that agreement, it may be eligible for duty-free entry. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment under any applicable trade agreement.