💾 Data Updated: Latest version • Last updated: December 09, 2025

8545.90.20.00 - Arc light carbons 🖩

Details

FieldValue
Unit of Quantitykg
General Rate of Duty (Column 1 - General)Free
Special Rate of Duty (Column 1 - Special)N/A
Column 2 Rate of Duty60%
Quota QuantityN/A
Additional DutiesN/A
About Duty Rates: Rates are divided into Column 1 and Column 2. Column 1 is subdivided into General (normal trade relations rates for all countries not eligible for special programs) and Special (preferential rates for countries with free trade agreements or preference programs). Column 2 rates apply to products from Cuba, North Korea, Belarus, and Russia. When no special rate exists for a classification, General rates apply.

Overview

This HTS category, 8545.90.20.00, specifically covers arc light carbons. These are carbon rods designed for use in arc lighting systems, such as those found in searchlights, projectors, and industrial lighting applications. The electrical current passing through these carbons creates an intense light arc, generating significant heat and illumination. The material is typically graphite, which possesses excellent conductivity and high sublimation points required for this application.

While the parent category 8545.90 broadly encompasses "Other" articles of graphite or carbon for electrical purposes, this subcategory narrows the focus to a very specific application: arc light carbons. It is important to distinguish this from other "Other" categories at the same level. For instance, 8545.90.40.00 would likely cover other electrical carbon articles not specifically enumerated elsewhere, such as carbon blocks for resistance heating or specific components not directly related to light generation through an arc. The key differentiator for 8545.90.20.00 is the direct use of the carbon rod as an electrode to sustain an electric arc for illumination.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. The classification is considered definitive for arc light carbons. When classifying, focus on the physical form of the carbon rod and its intended use in creating an electric arc for light production. The presence of any metal components would be incidental and not change the classification as long as the primary function remains arc lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

›What is HTS code 8545.90.20.00?
HTS code 8545.90.20.00 covers Arc light carbons under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It falls under Chapter 85: 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.
›What products are classified under 8545.90.20.00?
This classification covers Arc light carbons. It is a subcategory of Other: (8545.90).
›What is the import duty rate for 8545.90.20.00?
The general rate of duty for HTS 8545.90.20.00 is Free. The Column 2 rate is 60%.
›What unit of quantity is used for 8545.90.20.00?
Imports under HTS 8545.90.20.00 are measured in kg.

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