electric suction cup
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8428900390 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8428100000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π οΈ Electric Suction Cup (Vacuum Lifters)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Electric Suction Cups"?
An Electric Suction Cup (often referred to as an Electric Vacuum Lifter or Vacuum Gripper) is a specialized handling device that uses electric pumps to create a vacuum for lifting, holding, and moving objects. Unlike manual suction cups, these are often integrated into robotic arms, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), or standalone lifting systems.
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on integration: * Standalone/Integrated Lifting Machinery: If the device is part of a system designed specifically for lifting, handling, loading, or unloading (e.g., robotic vacuum grippers, vacuum lifters for glass/steel), it falls under Chapter 84. * Generic Vacuum Pumps: If it is merely a vacuum pump component without specific handling functionality, it might fall under different codes, but "Electric Suction Cup" for industrial handling is typically 8428.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If it is a complete handling system or a specific lifting attachment for machinery β 8428.90.03.90
- If it is part of an elevator or skip hoist system β 8428.10.00.00
- Note: Most standalone "Electric Suction Cups" used in automation/logistics are classified as "Other lifting/handling machinery."
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
8428.90.03.90 |
Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery (e.g., elevators, escalators, conveyors, teleferics): Other machinery Other | Electric vacuum lifters, robotic suction grippers, industrial vacuum handling systems | β Yes. It is "Other machinery" for lifting/handling not elsewhere specified. |
8428.10.00.00 |
Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery: Passenger or freight elevators other than continuous action; skip hoists | Elevators in buildings, freight lifts, mine skip hoists | β No. Unless the suction cup is part of a building elevator or mine skip, this does not apply. |
π Critical Reminder:
- Do not misclassify as simple pumps (e.g., 8413) if the device includes the vacuum cup(s) and is designed for handling/lifting objects. The primary function is handling, not just fluid transfer. - If the product is a complete unit (motor + pump + cup + control), it is 8428.90.03.90. - If it is a part of an elevator system, it goes to 8428.10.00.00.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 8428.90.03.90 ββ Other Lifting/Handling Machinery
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote/Section 301) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | Included in the 25% detail above (see note) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable (Deny de minimis for China-origin goods under Section 301) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8428.90.03.90 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 (or relevant 301 list) |
π Explanation:
- The Base Tariff is 0%, which is favorable.
- However, a 25% additional tariff is applied to Chinese-origin goods in this category under Section 301 measures.
- Total Cost Impact: 25% of the declared value.
- No De Minimis Exemption: Items under $800 cannot bypass these tariffs if they are China-origin and subject to Section 301.
π― 2. 8428.10.00.00 ββ Elevators/Skip Hoists
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| USITC Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8428.10.00.00 |
π Note:
- This rate is significantly lower than "Other Machinery."
- Only apply if the electric suction cup is explicitly part of an elevator or skip hoist system.
- Misclassification here to save 17.5% (25% - 7.5%) is high-risk and likely to trigger audits.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Missing Items = Delay)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must include: Voltage, Power, Max Lift Weight, Vacuum Pressure, Cup Material. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the device, including labels, model numbers, and any branding. |
| β Technical Diagrams | βοΈ | Show how it connects to other machinery (if any) to prove it's a handling device. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description should be precise: "Electric Vacuum Lifter for Industrial Handling, Model XYZ" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail contents, especially if shipped with accessories (pumps, hoses). |
| β Certifications | βοΈ | CE, UL, or other safety certifications if applicable (helps with customs inspection speed). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βFunction Determines Code: Lifting = 8428.90, Elevator = 8428.10β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone Electric Suction Lifter | 8428.90.03.90 |
Misdeclare as "Vacuum Pump" (8413) β Risk of penalty for misclassification. |
| Suction Cup attached to Robot Arm | 8428.90.03.90 |
Declare as "Robot Part" β May be rejected if not clearly a component. |
| Part of a Building Elevator System | 8428.10.00.00 |
Declare as "Other Machinery" β Higher tariff (25% vs 7.5%). |
| Generic Industrial Vacuum Cleaner | Not 8428 (Likely 8508 or 8413) |
Misdeclare as 8428 β Unnecessary 25% tariff. |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Suction Cups | Provide customer order and design drawings. Clarify if itβs a standard or custom handling device. |
| Used Equipment | If importing used electric suction lifters, additional inspection may apply. Ensure safety standards are met. |
| Parts vs. Whole Unit | If shipping only the "suction cup" without the pump/motor, check if itβs considered a "part" (8428.99) or "other machinery" (8428.90). Usually, integrated units are 8428.90.03.90. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirement | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8428.90.03.90 |
25% (Total) | UL/CE (Voluntary but recommended) | High tariff due to Section 301. |
| π¨π³ China | 8428.90.03.90 |
0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable) | Low tariff for import into China. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8428.90.03.90 |
0% - 5% (Varies) | CE Marking | Generally low tariffs for industrial machinery. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8428.90.03.90 |
0% - 5% | UKCA Marking | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8428.90.03.90 |
5% | RCM | No major surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- The US is the most challenging market due to the 25% surcharge.
- Cost Management: Consider sourcing components from non-China countries if possible, or factor the 25% into pricing.
- EU/Asia: Tariffs are significantly lower, making these products more competitive there.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Electric Suction Cup" as "Vacuum Pump" (8413)
π Consequence: Customs may reject it as incomplete handling equipment or impose penalties for misclassification.
π Result: Delays, audits, or incorrect duty assessment.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the "Handling" Function
π Consequence: If the device is clearly for lifting/handling, it MUST go to Chapter 84.
π Result: Higher scrutiny and potential reclassification to 8428.90.03.90 (25% tariff).
β Mistake 3: Using Vague Descriptions like "Suction Device"
π Consequence: Customs lacks clarity on the productβs primary function.
π Result: Risk of being classified under a higher tariff bracket or requiring additional documentation.
β Correct Practice:
"Electric Industrial Vacuum Lifter for Sheet Metal Handling, Model XYZ, Voltage: 220V, Max Load: 500kg, CE Certified"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Cost, Ensure Compliance!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ βLifting = 8428.90 (25% US Tax), Elevator = 8428.10 (7.5% US Tax), Vague = Risk!β
πΉ βHS Code Determines Duty, 25% Difference is Huge, Declare Precisely, Avoid Audits!β
π Pro Tip:
If your electric suction cup is originally produced in Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may qualify for reduced or zero tariffs under various trade agreements (e.g., USMCA for Mexico).
Recommend pre-classification ruling (Advance Ruling) for large shipments to ensure compliance and cost efficiency.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker + Provide Product Photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Let your electric suction cups pass customs smoothly, efficiently, and profitably!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.