HS 910310 Electrically operated

Quick Answer: Electrically operated watches and clocks enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.70%, and the US with varied rates, including 2.6% on movement and case plus 3.6% on the battery, or free for certain trade agreements. This HS code specifically covers timekeeping devices that are powered by electricity, such as battery-operated wristwatches, alarm clocks, and wall clocks. Importers should be aware of the complex US tariff structure for these goods, which can involve multiple components. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these specific rates is crucial for accurate duty assessment and compliance across different markets.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9103100000 4.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9103100000 4.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
91031020 2.6% on the movement and case + 3.6% on the battery Free (17 programs) —
91031080 48¢ each + 4.6% on the case + 3.5% on the battery Free (17 programs) —
910310 — — —
91031040 24¢ each + 4.5% on the case + 3.5% on the battery Free (17 programs) —

Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.

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.

Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 9103.10?

Imports of Electrically operated may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.

United States (HTSUS)

Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs

European Union (TARIC)

Preferential rate data not yet available.

United Kingdom

Preferential rate data not yet available.

Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.

Data compiled by HSRates.

Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?

Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.

Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 910310 cover?

This subheading covers electrically operated clocks and watches, including those with a mechanical striking mechanism, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WHS) Explanatory Notes. This includes, but is not limited to, electric alarm clocks, electric wall clocks, and electric wristwatches, provided their primary function is timekeeping and they are powered by an electric current. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the defining characteristic is the electrical operation of the timekeeping mechanism.

What falls outside HS 910310?

The following products are excluded from HS 910310: purely mechanical clocks and watches (classified under 9101 to 9102), time switches that are not primarily timepieces (classified according to their primary function), and electric clocks or watches that are integrated into other appliances where timekeeping is a secondary function. For instance, a microwave oven with a digital clock display is not classified under 910310, but rather under the heading for the appliance itself.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 910310?

A common error is misclassifying electric clocks that incorporate additional functions, such as radios or alarms that are not electrically operated. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods composed of different materials or made up of different components must be classified by reference to the material or component which gives them their essential character. If the electrical timekeeping function is not the dominant characteristic, it may fall under a different heading.

How should importers classify products under HS 910310?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 910310 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and power source. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official nomenclature, including the WCO Explanatory Notes, and relevant national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Verify that the product is indeed electrically operated and that timekeeping is its primary function, ensuring it meets all criteria before assigning the code.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 910310?

A specific electric alarm clock weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $2.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50.00 × 0.05 = $2.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 910310.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 910310?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 910310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a "Free" duty rate for eligible goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted and applicable) or existing preferential arrangements could also offer reduced rates. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for certain other agreements.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 910910 HS 910811 HS 910212 HS 910390 HS 910812 HS 910820

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 910310, covering electrically operated watch and clock movements?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 910310, 'Electrically operated,' can vary. For example, the U.S. tariff rate is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, goods from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) may benefit from Free (0%) duty rates under specific agreements. It is crucial to consult the relevant tariff schedule for the importing country to determine the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.

How is the duty calculated for HS code 910310, specifically for electrically operated watch and clock movements?

The duty calculation for HS code 910310 is typically based on the ad valorem system, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and the declared value of the imported electrically operated watch movements is $10,000, the calculated duty would be $10,000 \times 0.04 = $400. Some specific components, like batteries, might have separate duty rates applied, as indicated by rates such as '2.6% on the movement and case + 3.6% on the battery'. Always confirm the valuation method and any specific component duties with the importing country's customs authority.

What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 910310?

HS code 910310 specifically covers 'Electrically operated' watch and clock movements. The primary criterion for classification under this code is that the movement is powered by an electric source, typically a battery. This distinguishes it from mechanical movements (HS 9108) or purely manual ones. The movement must be designed for incorporation into watches or clocks. If the electrical component is merely an accessory or a secondary function not essential to the primary timekeeping mechanism, it might be classified elsewhere. The WCO's Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings provide further guidance on distinguishing features.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 910310, and what documentation is typically required?

Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 910310. For example, agreements with countries like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and various bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) often grant reduced or zero duty rates. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin issued by the exporter or manufacturer, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Specific documentation requirements can be found in the customs regulations of the importing country and the text of the applicable trade agreement.

Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing electrically operated watch movements under HS 910310?

While a commercial invoice, bill of lading (or air waybill), and packing list are standard import documents, specific requirements for HS code 910310 may include a Certificate of Origin, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the goods, additional documentation might be required, such as a declaration of conformity to safety standards or specific manufacturer's declarations confirming the electrical operation and intended use as a watch or clock movement. It is advisable to consult the importing country's customs authority or a customs broker for a comprehensive list of required documents.