Skip to content
GOODS ACROSS BORDERS

HS HEADING 8538

Electrical apparatus; parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading no. 8535, 8536 and 8537

In plain English

This category covers electrical devices and components designed specifically for use with certain other electrical machinery. One group includes uninstalled structural supports like boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, and bases intended for specific control or distribution equipment. The other group consists of parts that are exclusively or primarily meant for use with a broader range of electrical apparatus, including switches, relays, and circuit breakers.

PARAPHRASE OF THE OFFICIAL HS 2022 TEXTS BELOW — NOT LEGAL ADVICE

6-digit subheadings (2)

Official HS 2022 subheading texts. National tariff schedules subdivide these further (8-10 digit lines) and set the actual duty rates.

8538.10

Electrical apparatus; parts (e.g. boards, panels, consoles, desks, cabinets, other bases), for goods of heading no. 8537, not equipped with their apparatus

8538.90

Electrical apparatus; parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading no. 8535, 8536 or 8537

Chapter 85 classification notes

High-value electronics. Many products duty-free under ITA/ITA-2. Anti-dumping duties on solar panels from China in US and EU. Lithium battery transport regulations (IATA DGR) apply in addition to customs. CE/FCC/UKCA marking requirements.

Frequent misclassification in this chapter

Many importers confuse 85 (electrical) and 84 (mechanical). A device with both elements usually classifies by principal function. Chargers and adapters classified separately from the device they charge.

Classification certainty

The 6-digit level shown here is the internationally harmonised layer. Duty rates attach to national 8-10 digit tariff lines, which differ by country — use the duty calculator for lane estimates. For binding certainty, request a ruling from the destination customs authority.

Binding tariff ruling database

Other headings in Chapter 85

RULES5,339COUNTRIES85ITEMS111CARRIERS28GUIDES46UNIQUE SOURCES645LATEST VERIFICATION2026-07-26MethodologyChangelog