HS 910511 Alarm clocks
Quick Answer: Alarm clocks imported under HS 910511 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.70%, and the US at 3.9% ad valorem on the movement and case plus 5.3% on the battery, with some preferential rates available. This classification covers timekeeping devices designed to sound an alarm at a predetermined time, typically used for waking individuals. Importers should note the specific components subject to duty in the US. Exporters should verify the most favorable tariff treatment based on the origin of the goods. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9105110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9105110000 | 4.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 91051140 | 3.9% on the movement and case + 5.3% on the battery | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 910511 | — | — | — |
| 91051180 | 30¢ each + 6.9% on the case + 5.3% 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 9105.11?
Imports of Alarm clocks 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 910511 cover?
This subheading covers alarm clocks, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes timekeeping devices primarily designed to sound an audible alarm at a preset time. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are typically standalone units, often powered by batteries or mains electricity, and may incorporate additional features such as snooze functions or illumination.
What falls outside HS 910511?
The following products are excluded from HS 910511: timepieces that are not primarily designed to sound an alarm, such as standard wall clocks or desk clocks without an alarm function. Furthermore, complex electronic devices that incorporate an alarm as a secondary function, like smartphones or smartwatches, are classified under their respective headings based on their principal function. Watches, even if they have an alarm, are classified under heading 9101 or 9102.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 910511?
A common error is misclassifying alarm clocks that are integrated into other appliances, such as microwave ovens or radios. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3(b), classification is determined by the essential character of the product. If the alarm function is secondary to the primary function of the appliance, it will not be classified as an alarm clock under 910511.
How should importers classify products under HS 910511?
The correct procedure for classifying alarm clocks under HS 910511 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and design. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes. Confirming that the item's principal purpose is to provide an audible alarm at a set time is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 910511?
A digital alarm clock with a declared customs value of $15.00 USD, imported into the United States, would attract a US duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 10% of $15.00 = $1.50. This rate applies to goods from countries not covered by preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 910511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 910511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for eligible originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for qualifying goods originating from the EU or UK. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK trade.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the primary classification criteria for alarm clocks under HS code 910511?
HS code 910511 specifically covers 'Alarm clocks'. To be classified under this code, the clock must primarily function as an alarm device. This typically means it has a mechanism designed to sound an audible signal at a pre-set time. The clock's primary function must be timekeeping and alarming, distinguishing it from decorative clocks or other timekeeping devices that may have secondary alarm functions. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of Chapter 91, which covers clocks and watches.
What are the typical duty rates for alarm clocks (HS 910511) and how do preferential trade agreements impact them?
Duty rates for alarm clocks (HS 910511) vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates can be substantially lower or even free for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, free entry (0% duty) may be available under agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG), indicated by specific flags in tariff schedules. Importers must verify the origin of the goods and consult the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC for the US, EU TARIC for the EU, UK Trade Tariff for the UK) to determine applicable rates.
How is the import duty for alarm clocks calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for alarm clocks typically depends on the duty rate applied. If the rate is ad valorem, the duty is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if alarm clocks are imported with a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and are subject to a 4.00% ad valorem duty rate, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 USD (Value) × 0.04 (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the specific tariff schedule for the importing country to confirm the duty calculation method.
What documentation is typically required for importing alarm clocks under HS 910511?
Standard import documentation for alarm clocks (HS 910511) generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any specific product safety or labeling requirements, such as those related to electrical safety or consumer product regulations, which might necessitate additional declarations or certifications. Consulting with a customs broker or the importing country's customs authority is recommended to ensure all requirements are met.
Are there specific considerations for alarm clocks that contain batteries when determining HS classification and duty?
When alarm clocks contain batteries, the classification generally remains under HS 910511 if the primary function is timekeeping and alarming. However, the battery itself might be subject to separate regulations or duties depending on its type and origin, particularly if it's a removable or replaceable unit. In some tariff systems, there might be a combined duty rate or a specific duty applied to the battery component. For instance, a tariff might state '3.9% on the movement and case + 5.3% on the battery'. It is crucial to check the specific tariff schedule for any notes or additional duties related to components like batteries to ensure accurate classification and duty assessment.