HS 920510 Brass-wind instruments
Quick Answer: Brass-wind instruments imported under HS 920510 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.20%, and the US at 2.9% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers musical instruments that produce sound by the vibration of air within a tube, typically made of brass, and operated by the player's breath. Examples include trumpets, trombones, tubas, and French horns. Importers should be aware that the US offers preferential duty rates for certain trading partners, as noted in CustomTariffs data. Accurate classification is crucial to ensure correct duty application and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9205100000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9205100000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 92051000 | 2.9% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 9205100040 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9205100080 | — | — | ["No."] |
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 9205.10?
Imports of Brass-wind instruments 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 16 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 920510 cover?
This subheading covers brass-wind instruments, which are musical instruments that produce sound when the player's lips cause a column of air to vibrate within a tubular resonator. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category specifically includes instruments like trumpets, trombones, tubas, French horns, and cornets. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, focusing on instruments where sound is produced by the vibration of air within a metal tube, often amplified by a bell. These instruments are typically made of brass or other metals.
What falls outside HS 920510?
The following products are excluded from HS 920510: wood-wind instruments, such as clarinets, flutes, and saxophones, which produce sound through vibrating reeds or by splitting an airstream. Percussion instruments, like drums and cymbals, are also classified elsewhere. Additionally, electronic keyboards and synthesizers, even if they mimic brass sounds, do not fall under this subheading. Instruments made primarily of materials other than brass, or those that do not rely on lip vibration to produce sound, will be classified under different headings within Chapter 92 or other relevant chapters.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 920510?
A common error is misclassifying wood-wind instruments that are made of metal, such as metal flutes or saxophones, under HS 920510. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. The defining characteristic for brass-wind instruments is the method of sound production (lip vibration), not solely the material. Importers may also mistakenly classify novelty or toy instruments that resemble brass-wind instruments but lack the complexity and sound quality of true musical instruments.
How should importers classify products under HS 920510?
The correct procedure for classifying instruments under HS 920510 involves a thorough examination of the instrument's design and method of sound production. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the instrument uses lip vibration to produce sound and if it is constructed with a tubular resonator, typically made of brass. Reviewing product literature and manufacturer specifications is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 920510?
A professional trumpet weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value. The calculation is: 3.0% × $500 USD = $15.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 9205.10.0000. For specific countries, preferential rates may apply, potentially reducing this amount to free.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 920510?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 920510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific origin declaration is typically required, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction. For goods originating in the EU and imported into the UK, a EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration on an invoice is necessary for preferential treatment.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 920510 (Brass-wind instruments)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 920510 can vary by country. For example, in the United States, the rate is typically 2.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, rates can range, with a common rate being 3.20% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact rate applicable at the time of import. Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry for qualifying goods from partner countries (e.g., Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,JP,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) indicates duty-free status under various agreements).
How is the import duty for HS 920510 calculated?
Import duty for brass-wind instruments under HS 920510 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the item's value. For example, if a shipment of trumpets is valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.02 = $200 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 verify the calculation method and applicable rate with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the classification criteria for brass-wind instruments under HS 920510?
HS code 920510 covers 'Brass-wind instruments'. This category includes musical instruments that produce sound when the player vibrates their lips against a mouthpiece, causing the air column within the instrument to vibrate. Common examples include trumpets, trombones, tubas, French horns, and euphoniums. Instruments that are not primarily made of brass or do not operate on the principle of lip vibration (e.g., woodwind instruments, electronic keyboards) would be classified under different HS codes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on classification.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS 920510?
Numerous trade agreements can grant preferential duty rates, often leading to duty-free entry for brass-wind instruments. Examples include agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement), and various bilateral agreements the US has with countries like Australia, Chile, and South Korea. In the EU, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Japan or Canada can offer reduced or zero duties. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin criteria stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation.
What documentation is typically required when importing brass-wind instruments under HS 920510?
Standard import documentation for HS 920510 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be required to prove the goods' origin and eligibility for reduced or free trade. Some countries might also request safety or quality certifications, although these are less common for standard musical instruments unless specific regulations apply. Always consult the importing country's customs regulations and the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement.