HS Code for Electrical Relays
The HS Code for electrical relays is 853641. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 2.7%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 853641 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.7% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.3% |
| Chapter | 85 |
| Heading | 8536 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Relays for voltage not exceeding 60 V
HS Code 853641 covers electrical relays for a voltage not exceeding 60 V with a US MFN duty rate of 2.7%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the presence of gold-plated contacts in a 12V relay affect its classification under HTS 8536.41?
The inclusion of gold plating does not change the classification, as HTS 8536.41 is determined by the relay's function and voltage rating (not exceeding 60 V). Classification remains under this subheading regardless of contact material, as the essential character is that of an electrical relay.
Why are relays under 60V (HTS 853641) frequently targeted by customs for inspection and what are the specific risks?
Relays classified under 853641 are common targets for customs inspection due to the high risk of misclassification with similar articles like switches (853650) or higher-voltage relays (853649), which carry different duty rates. Inspectors will verify the exact voltage rating and internal switching mechanism to ensure the correct classification and duty are applied. Additionally, they may check for proper country-of-origin marking and ensure the goods are not subject to antidumping or countervailing duty orders on specific components.
What are the primary cost factors beyond the product price when importing relays under HTS 853641 (voltage not exceeding 60V)?
For these low-voltage relays, the primary additional costs are a 2.7% Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) import duty in the US, and you must pay Merchandise Processing Fees (MPF) of 0.3464% of the entered value (minimum $31.67, maximum $634.62). If the relays contain precious metal contacts (like gold or palladium), their value may be separately assessed, potentially affecting the total duty calculation.
Relays: Material of Contact Points Drives Classification
For relays under HTS 8536.41, the specific material of the electrical contacts is a critical classification factor. Relays with contacts of precious metals like silver, gold, or platinum alloys are classified elsewhere, specifically in subheading 8536.49. This distinction is based on the type of metal used for the switching surfaces, not the relay's outer casing or coil. For example, a relay with silver-cadmium oxide contacts would be classified in 8536.49, not 8536.41. Always verify the exact contact material specification to ensure correct tariff application.
Similar and Confused HTS Codes
Electrical relays (8536.41) are most commonly confused with switches and contactors. Relays are specifically defined by a low control circuit capacity not exceeding 10 amps. For switching devices with a higher capacity, consider heading 8536.50. For solid-state relays, which lack mechanical contacts, you must verify classification under heading 8536.41 or potentially 8541.30 based on their specific semiconductor composition and function.
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