Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
2.6%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (2.6%) of the declared value of the imported goods.
Special Trade Agreement Rates
The following countries and trade agreements qualify for reduced or eliminated tariffs:
GSP (Generalized System of Preferences)
Australia FTA
Bahrain FTA
Chile FTA
Colombia TPA
AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act)
Caribbean Basin Initiative
Israel FTA
Jordan FTA
Korea-U.S. (KORUS) FTA
Morocco FTA
Oman FTA
CAFTA-DR (Central America)
Panama TPA
Peru TPA
AGOA Least-Developed Beneficiary
Singapore FTA
Rate: Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
35%
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 8544.42.90 Covers
This subheading falls under heading 8544 for insulated wire, cable, and other insulated electric conductors. Specifically it covers other electric conductors for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 volts that are fitted with connectors, where the product does not fall into a more specific statistical line. Typical goods include finished cable assemblies, patch cords, and cordsets that have plugs or connectors already attached.
Notes for Importers
The key features here are the voltage rating (1,000 volts or less) and the presence of connectors. Conductors without connectors are classified under 8544.49 instead. Data cables, USB cords, and similar assemblies frequently land in this area, but coaxial cable and fiber optic cable have their own separate subheadings within 8544 and should not be forced into 8544.42.
Product Category
Machinery and Electrical Equipment
This chapter includes boilers, pumps, engines, motors, generators, transformers, electrical machinery, and related mechanical equipment.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 8544.42.90 |
| Description | Other |
| Chapter | 85 - Machinery and Electrical Equipment |
| General Duty Rate | 2.6% |
| Rate Type | Ad Valorem |
| Special Rates | Free (A,AU,B,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a product fall under 8544.42?
It must be an insulated electric conductor rated at 1,000 volts or less that is fitted with connectors, such as a finished cordset or cable assembly with plugs attached.
What if the cable has no connectors?
Insulated conductors up to 1,000 volts without connectors are classified under 8544.49, not 8544.42.
Does this cover coaxial or fiber optic cable?
No. Coaxial cable and optical fiber cable have their own dedicated subheadings within heading 8544.
What is the HTS code 8544.42.90 used for?
HTS code 8544.42.90 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Other. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 8544.42.90?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 8544.42.90?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Machinery and Electrical Equipment products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 8544.42.90?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 8544.42.90 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.