Air Fryer - HTS Code 8516.60.40.74

An air fryer, also known as an oilless fryer, is a compact countertop domestic appliance designed to cook food by circulating hot air using a high-speed convection mechanism. Unlike traditional deep-fat fryers that submerge food in oil, the air fryer utilizes an electrothermic heating element and a powerful internal fan to distribute heat evenly, mimicking the results of deep frying with minimal to no oil. These devices are typically equipped with a removable basket or tray, digital or manual temperature controls, and a timer. To qualify under the specific HTS statistical suffix 74, the unit must be a domestic cooking oven or range with a maximum width not exceeding 70 centimeters. Their portability and efficiency make them a staple in modern kitchens for preparing crispy poultry, vegetables, and frozen snacks. For customs purposes, the lack of an oil vat distinguishes them from deep-fat fryers, categorizing them instead as specialized convection ovens within the electrothermic appliance group.

Important: AI output requires professional review

Moya provides AI-assisted research for U.S. import workflows. Results are not a binding CBP ruling, legal advice, customs brokerage advice, or filing instruction. Verify HTS codes, duties, and compliance requirements with a licensed customs broker or official source before relying on them.

Reference HTS Code

8516.60.40.74

For research only. Verify the latest schedule and official requirements before filing.

AI Classification Reasoning

The classification of a countertop air fryer is determined by applying the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI). Per GRI 1, classification is governed by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Heading 8516 covers 'electrothermic appliances of a kind used for domestic purposes.' Within this heading, the air fryer is categorized under subheading 8516.60, which specifically includes 'other ovens; cooking stoves, ranges, cooking plates, boiling rings, grillers and roasters.' Although the marketing name includes 'fryer,' the functional mechanism is that of a convection oven, utilizing forced air rather than oil immersion. Therefore, it is excluded from the 'deep-fat fryer' provision of 8516.79 and directed toward the 'oven' provision. Following GRI 6 for subheading classification, it falls under 8516.60.40 (Cooking stoves, ranges and ovens). The statistical suffix .74 is applied because these units are portable countertop models with a width of less than 70 cm. This classification is consistent with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) rulings (e.g., HQ H275330), which clarify that the air-circulating heating method aligns with the definition of an oven.

Tariff Information

General rate—

🔒Section 301 surcharge (China origin)
🔒Section 232 (steel/aluminum)
🔒IEEPA tariffs
🔒Exclusion list lookup
🔒Tariff impact notes

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FAQ

What is the General Rate of Duty for HTS 8516.60.40.74?: The General Rate of Duty is 'Free'. However, products originating from China may be subject to additional Section 301 duties.
Why isn't an air fryer classified as a deep-fat fryer under 8516.79.70?: CBP distinguishes air fryers from deep-fat fryers because air fryers cook via convection (hot air) rather than oil immersion, which is the defining characteristic of a deep-fat fryer.
What determines if an air fryer exceeds the 70 cm width threshold?: The width is measured at the widest point of the appliance's exterior housing. Most standard countertop models are well under 70 cm, qualifying them for suffix .74.