Electric Coffee Grinder - HTS Code 8509.40.00.40

An electric coffee grinder is a specialized electromechanical domestic appliance designed to pulverize whole coffee beans into consistent grounds for brewing. These devices, which include both high-precision burr grinders and high-speed blade grinders, are powered by a self-contained electric motor. Burr grinders are particularly valued for espresso and specialty coffee preparation due to their ability to produce a uniform particle size using two rotating abrasive surfaces. Modern electric grinders often feature multiple grind settings, timers, and dosers to facilitate various brewing methods, ranging from coarse French press to ultra-fine Turkish coffee. From a customs perspective, these items are identified by their domestic application and integrated power source. To qualify for this specific HTS classification, the unit must be designed for household food preparation tasks. These appliances are essential for coffee enthusiasts who require fresh grounds to ensure optimal flavor extraction, and they represent a significant category within the small kitchen appliance market due to their mechanical complexity and specialized function.

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

8509.40.00.40

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

AI Classification Reasoning

The classification of an electric coffee grinder is governed by General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6. Following GRI 1, the product is classified according to the terms of the headings and Chapter Notes. Heading 8509 specifically covers 'Electromechanical domestic appliances, with self-contained electric motor, other than vacuum cleaners of heading 8508.' Note 4(a) to Chapter 85 clarifies that heading 8509 includes food grinders and processors of any weight, provided they are of the type commonly used for domestic purposes. This excludes industrial-grade machinery intended for commercial food production, which would fall under Chapter 84. Furthermore, because the device contains an integrated electric motor, it is precluded from heading 8210, which covers manual hand-operated mechanical appliances. Applying GRI 6 for subheading determination, the product falls under 8509.40.00, which explicitly names 'Food grinders and processors.' The statistical suffix 40 is applied to further categorize the item as a food processor/grinder within the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The general duty rate for this classification is 4.2% ad valorem.

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

Does this HTS code apply to heavy-duty commercial espresso grinders?: No. Commercial or industrial-grade grinders used in coffee shops are generally classified under heading 8438 as machinery for the industrial preparation of food or drink, as they exceed the domestic use scope of heading 8509.
What is the difference between HTS 8509.40.00.40 and 8210.00.00.00?: HTS 8509.40.00.40 is for electromechanical appliances with a self-contained motor. HTS 8210.00.00.00 is used for manual, hand-operated mechanical appliances weighing 10kg or less, such as hand-crank coffee mills.
Are there additional duties for grinders imported from China?: Yes, products classified under 8509.40.00 may be subject to Section 301 trade remedies when originating from China. Importers should verify the current 'List' and duty percentage (often an additional 7.5% or 25%).