HS 890510 Dredgers
Quick Answer: Dredgers imported under HS 890510 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 0.00% or 1.70% ad valorem, and the US duty-free. This HS code specifically covers dredgers, which are vessels designed for excavating material from the bed of a body of water. This includes both self-propelled and non-self-propelled types, such as trailing suction hopper dredgers and cutter suction dredgers. Significant trade considerations may include specific import licensing requirements or potential preferential duty rates under trade agreements, which can be verified through detailed tariff databases. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist with compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8905100000 | — | — | — |
| 8905101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8905109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8905100000 | — | — | — |
| 8905101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8905109000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8905100000 | 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 890510 cover?
This subheading covers dredgers, which are specialized vessels designed for excavating and removing material from the seabed or other bodies of water. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes both trailing suction hopper dredgers and cutter suction dredgers, as well as other types of dredging equipment that are self-propelled or designed to be towed. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these vessels are primarily used for port maintenance, construction, and resource extraction.
What falls outside HS 890510?
The following products are excluded from HS 890510: floating cranes, pile drivers, and other vessels that may perform some excavation but are not primarily designed for dredging. For instance, floating excavators or barges equipped with grab buckets for material removal would typically be classified under other headings, such as 8429 (self-propelled bulldozers, front-loading shovels, excavators, etc.) or 8907 (other floating structures). Vessels solely used for transporting dredged material, like hopper barges, would also fall under different classifications.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 890510?
A common error is misclassifying specialized construction vessels that may have some dredging capabilities but are not primarily designed for that purpose. For example, a floating pile driver or a vessel used for laying pipelines might be mistakenly classified under 890510. 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's crucial to ascertain the principal function of the vessel to ensure correct classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 890510?
The correct procedure for classifying dredgers under HS 890510 involves a thorough examination of the vessel's design, intended use, and operational capabilities. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 8905. Key factors include whether the vessel is equipped with dredging apparatus and its primary function in excavating and removing material from waterways.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 890510?
A Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger weighing 5,000,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $10,000,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,000,000. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem applied to the declared customs value, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: $10,000,000 (declared value) × 0.20 (MFN duty rate) = $2,000,000 (duty amount). Note: This is a hypothetical example for illustrative purposes; actual duty rates may vary.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 890510?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 890510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible dredgers originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For imports into the European Union, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duties for eligible developing countries, requiring a Form A certificate of origin.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 890510 (Dredgers)?
Import duty rates for HS code 890510 (Dredgers) can vary significantly by country. For instance, the United States applies a duty rate of 0.00% under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union, under the TARIC system, also lists a 0.00% duty rate for dredgers. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff similarly shows a 'Free' duty rate. However, other countries may have different rates; for example, some nations might apply a rate around 1.70% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for a dredger under HS 890510 calculated?
The calculation of import duty for a dredger (HS 890510) typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). If the duty is ad valorem, the formula is: Duty Amount = (Customs Value of the Dredger) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if a dredger has a customs value of $5,000,000 USD and the applicable ad valorem duty rate is 1.70%, the duty would be $5,000,000 × 0.0170 = $85,000 USD. If the duty is specific, it would be calculated based on the quantity or weight, e.g., $X per vessel. Always verify the basis of duty calculation in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What specific criteria define a 'Dredger' for HS classification under 890510?
According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, HS code 890510 covers 'Dredgers'. This generally refers to vessels specifically designed or equipped for dredging, which involves excavating material from the seabed or riverbeds. Such vessels typically feature specialized equipment like suction pipes, cutter heads, or buckets for material removal and onboard storage or discharge mechanisms. Classification hinges on the primary function and specialized design for dredging operations, distinguishing them from general-purpose vessels or construction barges.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that commonly affect HS 890510?
Yes, preferential duty rates can significantly impact the import duties for dredgers (HS 890510). Many countries have Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that may offer reduced or zero duty rates on goods originating from partner countries. For example, if a dredger is manufactured in a country that has an FTA with the importing country (e.g., USMCA for North America, or various EU bilateral agreements), it may qualify for preferential treatment, potentially reducing the duty to 0.00% or Free, provided all rules of origin are met. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required when importing a dredger under HS code 890510?
When importing a dredger classified under HS 890510, standard maritime shipping documentation is essential, along with specific customs requirements. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, description, and origin of the vessel; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin. For specialized vessels like dredgers, additional documentation may be required, such as proof of ownership, vessel registration documents, and potentially specific permits or licenses depending on the importing country's regulations for maritime equipment. Customs brokers should verify the exact requirements with the destination country's customs authority.