HS 890610 Warships
Quick Answer: Warships imported under HS 890610 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This Harmonized System code specifically covers vessels of war, such as destroyers, frigates, and aircraft carriers, designed for combat operations. Due to the sensitive nature of these goods, importers and customs brokers should be aware that while duty rates are generally nil, stringent import and export controls, licensing requirements, and national security regulations will apply. Compliance with these specific governmental authorizations is paramount. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information, highlighting the duty-free entry but emphasizing the critical need for regulatory adherence beyond mere tariff application.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8906100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8906100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8906100000 | 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 890610 cover?
This subheading covers warships, which are vessels specifically designed and equipped for military purposes, including combat, troop transport, or other naval operations. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses vessels of war, such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, and submarines, when they are designed for military deployment. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the primary function and military specifications are determinative for classification under this code.
What falls outside HS 890610?
The following products are excluded from HS 890610: civilian vessels, even if they are large or capable of carrying significant cargo or passengers, such as cruise ships, cargo freighters, and oil tankers. Also excluded are vessels that have been demilitarized or are intended for conversion to civilian use. For instance, a decommissioned naval vessel sold for scrap or conversion into a museum would not be classified as a warship. Auxiliary naval vessels not equipped for combat, such as supply ships or tugboats, are typically classified under other headings within Chapter 89.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 890610?
A common error is misclassifying vessels that have a dual-use capability but are not primarily designed or equipped for military operations. For example, a large, robust civilian vessel that could theoretically be armed is not a warship under HS 890610 unless its design and equipment are specifically for military purposes. This often relates to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, particularly GRI 1, which emphasizes the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Misinterpreting the primary function of a vessel is a frequent pitfall.
How should importers classify products under HS 890610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 890610 involves a thorough examination of the vessel's design, specifications, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System. Key factors include whether the vessel is equipped with armaments, specialized military communication systems, or designed for tactical naval operations. Obtaining detailed technical specifications from the manufacturer or seller is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 890610?
Warships are generally not subject to ad valorem duties in most major trading blocs due to national security considerations and specific exemptions. For example, under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, warships are typically classified under 8906.10 and carry a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem. Therefore, a hypothetical warship declared at a customs value of $500,000,000 would attract a US duty of $0 (0% × $500,000,000), reflecting the standard exemption for such military assets.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 890610?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 890610, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying warships originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the specific provisions of the agreement and the value of the goods. While specific preferential rates for warships are rare due to their nature, any applicable agreements would stipulate the documentation needed for duty-free entry.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 890610 (Warships)?
Warships (HS code 890610) are generally subject to zero import duty in most major economies. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% duty rate under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. Similarly, the European Union's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff list these vessels as duty-free. It is crucial to verify the specific tariff schedule of the importing country at the time of importation, as specific national regulations or security concerns could theoretically lead to different treatments, though this is highly uncommon for warships.
What specific criteria define a vessel as a 'warship' for HS classification under 890610?
According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, a 'warship' under HS code 890610 refers to vessels specifically designed and equipped for military purposes, typically operated by the armed forces of a sovereign state. Key indicators include armament, armor, specialized communication and surveillance equipment, and operational command structures. Vessels primarily used for transport, patrol, or other non-combat roles, even if operated by military personnel, may not fall under this specific heading and could be classified elsewhere in Chapter 89, depending on their design and function.
What documentation is typically required when importing warships under HS code 890610?
While duty-free, the importation of warships (HS code 890610) involves significant documentation beyond standard customs declarations. Importers, often government entities or authorized defense contractors, must provide proof of military ownership and operational status, typically through official government authorization letters, military registration documents, and declarations from the exporting nation's defense ministry. Customs authorities will require detailed specifications of the vessel, including its armament, displacement, and intended use, to confirm its classification. Diplomatic clearances and adherence to international maritime law and national security regulations are also paramount.
Do any trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for warships (HS 890610)?
Given that warships (HS code 890610) are almost universally duty-free, trade agreements typically do not offer further preferential duty treatment. The primary consideration for trade agreements in this context relates more to non-tariff barriers, such as streamlined customs procedures, mutual recognition of standards, or specific exemptions from certain import restrictions for defense equipment. However, the classification and importation of warships are largely governed by national defense policies and international law rather than standard free trade agreements.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 890610, and can you provide an example?
As warships (HS code 890610) are typically duty-free, the duty calculation is straightforward: the duty amount is zero. For example, if a warship valued at $500,000,000 USD with a 0.00% duty rate were imported into the United States, the duty payable would be calculated as: $500,000,000 (Value) × 0.00% (Duty Rate) = $0.00 (Duty Amount). Even if a specific country were to apply a nominal duty rate, the calculation would be based on either the value (ad valorem) or, less commonly for warships, a specific rate per unit (e.g., per displacement ton), but zero duty is the standard.