Rail locomotives powered from an external source of electricity or by electric accumulators (batteries)
2 declarable lines
Heading 8601 covers rail locomotives that draw their power either from an external source of electricity, such as an electrified third rail or overhead wire, or from electric accumulators (batteries) carried on board. The heading splits into two declarable lines by power source: 8601.10.00.00 for externally powered locomotives and 8601.20.00.00 for battery locomotives. Both lines carry a general (MFN) duty rate of Free.
Products in this heading
- Electric mainline freight locomotive drawing power from an overhead catenary wire
- Electric passenger locomotive powered by a third rail
- Battery-powered switching locomotive used in a rail yard
- Mine locomotive powered by on-board storage batteries
- Tram or light rail locomotive unit drawing power from an external supply
- Battery-powered industrial narrow-gauge locomotive
How to choose the right subheading
- Power source: external electricity supply versus on-board electric accumulators (batteries)
- Function: the unit must be a locomotive that hauls rail vehicles, not a coach or freight car
- Self-propelled status: non-self-propelled rolling stock goes to other headings in chapter 86
- Whether the item is a complete locomotive or a part, since parts are classified separately
Often confused with
- Heading 8602Diesel-electric freight locomotive with an on-board diesel generator
It generates its own power from fuel, so it is not powered from an external source or by batteries.
- Heading 8603Self-propelled electric passenger coach or multiple-unit railcar
It is a coach or van that carries passengers or goods, not a locomotive.
- Heading 8606Non-self-propelled freight car
It has no motive power of its own.
- Heading 8607Railway locomotive parts such as traction motors, wheels or bogies
Parts are classified in the parts heading, not with the complete locomotive.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HTS code for an electric locomotive powered from an external source?
It is 8601.10.00.00, and the general (MFN) duty rate is Free.
What is the duty on battery-powered locomotives?
Battery-powered locomotives are classified under 8601.20.00.00, and the general (MFN) duty rate is Free.
How do I classify a locomotive that runs on an external power supply versus one on batteries?
Use 8601.10.00.00 for externally powered locomotives and 8601.20.00.00 for accumulator or battery locomotives; both carry a general (MFN) rate of Free.
Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.