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85
Tariff Chapter 85
Electromagnets; permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetisation; electromagnetic or permanent magnet chucks, clamps and similar holding devices; electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes; electromagnetic lifting heads
What does heading 8505 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 8505 covers electromagnets, permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetisation, electromagnetic or permanent magnet chucks, clamps and holding devices, electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes, and electromagnetic lifting heads. This includes neodymium, ferrite and alnico magnets and industrial electromagnets. EU customs duty rates for heading 8505 products range from 0% to 2.7%. Permanent magnets are typically subject to a 2.7% rate. Industrial electromagnets often benefit from lower rates. CE marking is required for electromagnetic devices. Heading 8505 is part of Chapter 85 (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 8505 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 8505 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 8505
EU customs duty rates for heading 8505 products range from 0% to 2.7%. Permanent magnets are typically subject to a 2.7% rate. Industrial electromagnets often benefit from lower rates. CE marking is required for electromagnetic devices. Permanent magnets are typically subject to a 2.7% duty rate. Industrial electromagnets must bear CE marking and comply with the EMC directive. Neodymium magnets may be subject to EU critical raw materials regulations. When importing large quantities of magnets, check for possible anti-dumping measures. When importing goods under heading 8505 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 8505 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 8505 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. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.
Classification of goods under heading 8505 - key considerations
Heading 8505 covers electromagnets, permanent magnets, electromagnetic chucks/clamps/brakes/clutches, and electromagnetic lifting heads. Key: magnets and devices operating on magnetism. Common mistake: electric motors are 8501, not 8505; decorative magnets are still 8505.
Frequently asked questions
What duty rates apply to electromagnets, permanent magnets under heading 8505?
Customs duty rates for electromagnets, permanent magnets under heading 8505 depend on the specific tariff subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN rates apply to imports from countries without preferential trade agreements. Preferential rates may be available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the GSP scheme, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Current rates for heading 8505 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Standard VAT rate in Poland is 23%.
What documents are required when importing electromagnets, permanent magnets into the EU?
Importing electromagnets, permanent magnets under heading 8505 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN classification and the importer's EORI number. Standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, transport document and product specification. A certificate of origin is needed for preferential rates. Additional regulatory requirements depend on the product type and may include safety, conformity or quality control certificates. Imports are governed by the Union Customs Code (UCC).
What should be considered when classifying electromagnets, permanent magnets under heading 8505?
Classification of goods under heading 8505 requires applying the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature (CN). Key factors include the product's composition, intended use and level of processing. Heading 8505 covers electromagnets, permanent magnets - exact classification to the 6-, 8- or 10-digit subheading depends on the specific characteristics of the goods. In case of doubt, it is recommended to apply for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the competent customs authority. The EBTI database on the European Commission website can help with classifying similar goods. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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