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84
Tariff Chapter 84
Automatic data-processing machines and units thereof; magnetic or optical readers, machines for transcribing data onto data media in coded form and machines for processing such data, not elsewhere specified or included
What does heading 8471 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 8471 covers automatic data-processing machines (computers), including desktops, laptops, servers, tablets, and processing units. It also includes readers, scanners, and other input/output devices. The duty rate is 0% for all goods under this heading, pursuant to the ITA (Information Technology Agreement). Products must comply with EU directives on electrical safety (LVD), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS). CE marking is required. Poland is a significant IT market in Central and Eastern Europe, with a dynamically developing technology sector. Heading 8471 is part of Chapter 84 (machinery, mechanical and electrical equipment) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 8471 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 8471 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 8471
The duty rate is 0% for all goods under this heading, pursuant to the ITA (Information Technology Agreement). CE marking is required. Import of computers and IT equipment is a major item in Polish foreign trade. Duty rate is 0% under the ITA agreement - applies to all computers and processing units. CE marking required along with LVD, EMC, and RoHS directive compliance. WEEE registration (waste electrical and electronic equipment) mandatory - importer bears producer responsibility. Check correct CN classification - tablets may be classified under 8471 or 8517 depending on communication features. When importing goods under heading 8471 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 8471 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system). Goods under heading 8471 are subject to CE directive compliance (Machinery, LVD, EMC, RoHS). Required documentation includes: CE declarations of conformity, operating instructions, technical documentation, EMC and LVD certificates. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties.
Classification of goods under heading 8471 - key considerations
Heading 8471 covers automatic data processing machines (computers): laptops, desktops, servers, tablets, storage units, scanners. Key: programmable data processing device. Monitors are 8528; computer printers are 8443. Common mistake: smartphones (with telephony) are 8517, not 8471.
Frequently asked questions
What are the customs duty rates for computers and data-processing machines under heading 8471?
All goods under heading 8471 - desktops, laptops, servers, tablets, and processing units - carry a 0% customs duty rate under the ITA (Information Technology Agreement). This applies to complete computer sets as well as central processing units, monitors, keyboards, and mice. The 0% rate applies regardless of the country of origin, making this heading unique in the EU customs tariff. No anti-dumping or countervailing duties currently apply to these products. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and certificates are required for importing computers into the EU?
Importing computers under heading 8471 requires CE marking and compliance with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD 2014/35/EU), EMC Directive (2014/30/EU), and RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU). WEEE registration in the destination country is mandatory. An EU declaration of conformity and technical documentation are required. Energy labels may be required for certain devices. The customs declaration must include the TARIC code, customs value, and product description. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing computers and IT equipment?
Despite the 0% customs duty on computers under heading 8471, imports are subject to VAT (e.g. 23% in Poland). Correct classification is important - multifunction devices may fall under other headings with higher rates. Data protection regulations (GDPR) should be considered when importing equipment with pre-installed software. Lithium batteries in laptops and tablets are subject to dangerous goods transport regulations (ADR/IATA DGR). Large volumes may require customs warehousing arrangements. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Automatic data-processing machines and units thereof; magnetic or optical readers, machines for transcribing data onto data media in coded form and machines for processing such data, not elsewhere specified or included" and see the full import cost.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Automatic data-processing machines and units thereof; magnetic or optical readers, machines for transcribing data onto data media in coded form and machines for processing such data, not elsewhere specified or included" with all costs included.
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