HS Code for Gears and Gearboxes
The HS Code for gears and gearboxes is 848340. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 2.5%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 848340 |
|---|---|
| US HTS (10-digit) | 8483400000 |
| EU CN Code (8-digit) | 84834000 |
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.5% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.7% |
| Chapter | 84 |
| Heading | 8483 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Gears and gearing; ball or roller screws; gear boxes and other speed changers
HS Code 848340 covers gears, gearing, ball screws, gearboxes, and speed changers with a US MFN duty rate of 2.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the material composition of a gear or speed changer affect its classification under HTS 8483.40?
The material is critical; for example, gears made entirely of plastics or vulcanized rubber are excluded from this heading and classified elsewhere, such as in Chapter 39 or 40. Heading 8483.40 specifically covers metal gears and those with metal working parts, such as a plastic gear housing with a hardened steel internal gear train. The distinction ensures that purely non-metallic gearing is not misclassified under this code for mechanical transmission components.
What are the common customs inspection risks for importing gearboxes and speed changers under HTS 8483.40?
The primary risk is misclassification of complex gearboxes as simple parts or assemblies; inspectors will verify the unit's design and function as a 'speed changer' as defined in the heading. Another frequent issue is undervaluation, where the declared value does not include integral motors, controllers, or specially designed mounting systems that are part of the shipped unit. Proper technical documentation detailing the gear ratios and torque capacity is essential to support the declared classification.
What additional costs, beyond the product price, should I budget for when importing gears and gearboxes under HTS 848340?
You should budget for the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty, which is 4.5% ad valorem for HTS 848340 in the United States. Additionally, you will incur a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) of 0.3464% of the entered value (minimum $29.22, maximum $648.66) for formal entries, and any applicable Harbor Maintenance Fee if arriving by vessel.
Material Impact on Classification for Gears and Gearing
Material is the primary classifying factor for gears under HTS 8483. Gears of base metals (e.g., steel, iron, brass) are classified under heading 8483, with common subheadings like 8483.40.50 for other spur gears and 8483.40.90 for other gears. However, gears made of materials like stone, ceramic, or certain plastics (e.g., acetal, nylon) are excluded from Chapter 84 and are generally classified elsewhere, such as in Chapter 68 or 39. Gears made of precious metals, such as those used in luxury watches, are also classified outside of 8483, typically in Chapter 71.
Alternative Classification: Gears, Gearing & Parts
The classification of components related to HTS 8483.40 can be confusing. 'Gearboxes' (8483.40) are distinct from the individual 'gears' that may be inside them, which are classified separately under 8483.40.50 for metal gears or 8483.40.80 for non-metal gears. Furthermore, universal joints (8483.60) and flywheels/pulleys (8483.90) are excluded from heading 8483.40. For ball or roller screws with integral gears, check heading 8483.40.30, as they are specifically provided for there.