85013300
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Electric motors and generators (excluding generating sets)
DC generators >75kW but ≤375kW
Subcodes (2)
Scope of subheading 850133 - DC motors from 75 kW to 375 kW
Subheading 850133 of the Combined Nomenclature covers direct current (DC) motors with an output exceeding 75 kW but not exceeding 375 kW. These are high-power motors used in heavy industry: steel rolling mill drives, railway traction, large port cranes, mining drives, paper machines and cement plants. Typical designs include motors with shunt or compound field windings, allowing precise speed regulation over a wide range. DC motors in this power class weigh from several hundred kilograms to several tonnes and require specialised transport logistics. Classification under subheading 850133 requires confirmation that shaft output falls within the range above 75 kW up to 375 kW inclusive, and that the motor operates exclusively on direct current. DC motors above 375 kW are classified under subheading 850134. Power refers to continuous rated conditions S1 per IEC 60034. Classification follows GRI rules 1 and 6 and the notes to Chapter 85.
Import requirements and regulations for DC motors 75–375 kW
Importing high-power DC motors under subheading 850133 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN code, EORI number and full technical documentation. The LVD Directive (2014/35/EU) applies to motors rated 75–1500 V DC. The Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 covers motors forming part of a machine. The Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1781 does not cover DC motors - it applies only to three-phase induction motors. IEC 60034 defines efficiency classes (IE1-IE5) for electric motors, but its regulatory application in the EU is currently limited to induction motors. High-power DC motors may require special transport permits due to weight and dimensions. CBAM does not apply to motors from Chapter 85. For imports from third countries, the importer should verify phytosanitary requirements for wooden packaging (ISPM 15 standard). Import documentation includes commercial invoice, technical specification, transport document and conformity certificates where applicable.
Customs duties and trade in high-power DC motors from subheading 850133
MFN duty rates for DC motors 75–375 kW under subheading 850133 should be verified in TARIC. Preferential rates are available under EU FTAs. Trade in high-power DC motors is specialised - main manufacturers are from Germany, the USA, Japan and China. Due to the high unit value and specialised nature of these products, orders are often executed to individual specifications. Importers should check TARIC for current trade measures for the country of origin. High-power DC motors intended for modernisation of existing production lines or railway traction may qualify for duty relief as goods intended for specific end-use. This requires obtaining an end-use authorisation from the competent customs authority. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to sanctions restrictions. VAT is charged on import. The correct 10-digit TARIC code should be established before clearance.
Ecodesign requirements for electric motors 8501 33
Electric motors under CN 8501 33 are subject to Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1781, requiring minimum efficiency class IE3 or IE4 for three-phase motors. Since 1 July 2023, motors 75–200 kW must meet IE4. MFN duty: 2.7%. Import requires a CE declaration (LVD + EMC) and ecodesign documentation. Non-compliant motors may be refused entry by market surveillance authorities.
Frequently asked questions
What industrial applications use DC motors from subheading 850133?
DC motors rated 75–375 kW under subheading 850133 are used in heavy industrial drives requiring precise speed control and high torque. Typical applications include steel rolling mill drives, high-capacity lifts and port cranes, DC-powered locomotives and trams, cement kiln and crusher drives, paper machines and hydraulic presses. DC motors in this power class enable smooth speed regulation from zero to maximum, which is more difficult to achieve with AC motors without advanced inverter drives.
Does importing DC motors 75–375 kW require special permits?
Importing DC motors under subheading 850133 does not require special import permits in the EU beyond the standard customs declaration with EORI number. However, due to the significant weight (often over 1000 kg) and dimensions of these motors, transport may require oversize vehicle permits. Wooden packaging must comply with ISPM 15 (phytosanitary marking). Motors intended for military or dual-use applications may require a licence under Regulation (EU) 2021/821. Duty rates should be verified in TARIC.
What distinguishes subheading 850133 from 850134 in DC motor classification?
Subheading 850133 covers DC motors with shaft output exceeding 75 kW up to 375 kW inclusive, while subheading 850134 covers DC motors with output exceeding 375 kW. The boundary is precise: 375 kW shaft output under continuous rated conditions S1 still falls under 850133, while any value above 375 kW qualifies the motor for 850134. Output power refers to mechanical shaft power, not electrical input power. Correct power determination is critical for classification and establishing the applicable duty rate.
What ecodesign requirements apply to motors under 8501 33?
Motors under CN 8501 33 are subject to Regulation (EU) 2019/1781. Three-phase motors must meet IE3 or IE4 efficiency class depending on power and market placement date.
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