HS Code for Portable Air Compressors
The HS Code for portable air compressors is 841440. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 2.5%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 841440 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.5% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 1.7% |
| Chapter | 84 |
| Heading | 8414 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Air compressors mounted on a wheeled chassis for towing
HS Code 841440 covers wheeled, portable air compressors for towing with a US MFN duty rate of 2.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the construction material of the wheeled chassis affect the classification of a portable air compressor under HTS 8414.40?
The chassis material is critical; HTS 8414.40 specifically requires the compressor to be mounted on a wheeled chassis designed for towing. If the chassis is of a temporary or non-durable material (e.g., a lightweight plastic dolly not meant for highway towing), it may be excluded and the unit could be classified elsewhere, such as under 8414.80 for other compressors. The chassis must be integral, robust, and constructed from materials like steel or heavy-duty aluminum suitable for transport.
What are the specific customs inspection risks for importing portable air compressors on a wheeled chassis under HTS 841440?
The primary risk is a customs audit for misclassification, as inspectors may scrutinize whether the unit is truly "portable" or if its horsepower, PSI output, or integrated features (like large air receivers or generators) warrant classification under a different heading for stationary compressors. Additionally, compressors mounted on a chassis with an engine may be subject to separate engine emissions regulations (e.g., EPA standards in the US), requiring proper documentation to avoid delays.
What are the primary customs duties and additional fees for importing portable air compressors under HTS 841440?
Portable air compressors under HTS 841440 are typically subject to Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates, which vary by country but are generally low (often 0-2.5% in many markets). However, the total landed cost must include the product's customs value plus any applicable sales taxes, VAT, and a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) in the U.S. or similar administrative fees in other countries.
Portable Air Compressor Materials & Classification
The classification of portable air compressors under 8414.40 is generally not dependent on the materials used in the compressor's housing or internal components (e.g., steel, aluminum, plastic). The legal text for heading 8414 covers compressors 'of all kinds,' making the material largely irrelevant. However, if the unit is presented as a set with specific accessories (e.g., pneumatic nail guns, tools), the classification could shift to a set provision like 8424.89 or 8467.29 based on the accessory's function. Always verify the complete unit description against the Harmonized System's General Interpretative Rules (GIRs) 3(a) and 3(b) for sets.
Alternative or Potentially Confused Classifications
Portable air compressors under 8414.40 are sometimes confused with larger stationary units and other air-moving machinery. Be careful to distinguish them from non-portable compressors of heading 8414.80 and from vehicle-mounted compressors designed for braking systems (8414.30). Portable air conditioners (8415.83) and air-powered hand tools (8467.19) are distinct products and are classified elsewhere. Always verify the unit's primary function and portability features to ensure correct placement in 8414.40.
Related HS Codes
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