HS Code for Circuit Breakers
The HS Code for circuit breakers is 853620. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 2.7%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 853620 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.7% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.3% |
| Chapter | 85 |
| Heading | 8536 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Automatic circuit breakers for voltage not exceeding 1000 V
HS Code 853620 covers automatic circuit breakers for a voltage not exceeding 1000 V with a US MFN duty rate of 2.7%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary cost factors beyond the product price when importing automatic circuit breakers (HTS 853620)?
For circuit breakers under HTS 853620, significant costs include the U.S. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is 0.3464% of the entered value, and a Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) import duty, typically 2.7% ad valorem. Additionally, you may face harbor maintenance or other port-specific fees, which vary by location.
What is the primary regulatory compliance requirement for importing circuit breakers (HTS 853620) into the United States?
Circuit breakers for under 1000V imported into the U.S. must be certified to meet specific safety standards, such as UL 489 for molded-case circuit breakers, by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). The importer must be prepared to provide the certification mark and documentation to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon request to prove compliance.
What specific packaging is required for shipping automatic circuit breakers under HTS 8536.20 to prevent damage during transit?
Automatic circuit breakers are sensitive electromechanical devices that must be shipped in their original, manufacturer-sealed retail packaging, which typically includes molded plastic or rigid cardboard compartments. This interior packaging must then be placed within a sturdy, corrugated cardboard master carton with sufficient cushioning material to prevent movement and absorb shocks, as carriers may deny liability for damage if this standard industrial packaging is not used.
Seasonal Import Trends for Circuit Breakers
Imports under HTS 853620 (Circuit Breakers) show a distinct seasonal pattern, with peak volumes typically arriving in the months of August through October. This surge aligns with the final procurement and construction phase ahead of the fiscal year-end for many industrial and utility projects. Following this peak, import activity tends to decline significantly from November through January. This pattern is consistent across major source countries like China, Mexico, and Germany, as reported in U.S. import data.
Compliance Notes for Circuit Breakers (853620)
Circuit breakers under HTS 853620 must comply with U.S. safety standards, including UL 489 for molded-case circuit breakers and UL 1077 for supplementary protectors. For most residential and commercial types, a UL Listing or an equivalent NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) certification is a mandatory customs requirement. Imports from certain countries may also be subject to anti-dumping/countervailing duties (AD/CVD); specific case numbers should be verified with current CBP rulings. Additionally, mercury-containing switches are prohibited in many jurisdictions, requiring verification of RoHS or REACH compliance documentation.
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