Customs Duties for Importing Electric Motorcycles

HS Code Classification for Electric Motorcycles

The first step in determining your import costs is correct Harmonized System (HS) code classification. Electric motorcycles are classified under HS Code 8711.60 — "Motorcycles with electric motor for propulsion." However, classification can vary slightly depending on power output, top speed, and whether the vehicle is classified as a motorcycle, moped, or scooter. Incorrect classification can lead to duty overpayment or customs penalties.

Key sub-classifications to be aware of: electric mopeds (speed limited to 45 km/h) may fall under different codes in some countries, electric motorcycles over 4 kW typically fall firmly under 8711.60, and spare parts and batteries may have separate classifications. Always consult with a licensed customs broker in your destination country for precise classification.

Import Duty Rates by Region

European Union

The EU applies a 6% standard import duty on electric motorcycles from China under HS 8711.60. However, if your shipment qualifies under a preferential origin arrangement or if the EU imposes anti-dumping duties on Chinese motorcycles (currently under review), rates may differ. VAT is applied on top of the duty-paid value and varies by member state — typically 19-25%.

Southeast Asia (ASEAN)

ASEAN countries have varying duty structures. Thailand imposes 30-60% duty on imported motorcycles, but electric vehicle incentives can reduce this substantially. Indonesia offers reduced duties for EV imports under their national EV acceleration program — as low as 0% for completely knocked down (CKD) units. Vietnam applies approximately 45-70% duty on CBU (completely built up) motorcycles. Philippines recently reduced EV import duties to 0% under Executive Order 12.

Latin America

Brazil has one of the highest import duty structures at 35% for motorcycles plus state-level ICMS tax (varies by state, typically 12-18%). Mexico applies 20% duty under most-favored-nation (MFN) rates. Colombia imposes 15% duty plus 19% VAT. Chile offers 0% duty under the China-Chile Free Trade Agreement. For market-specific insights, read our Latin America EV market overview.

Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Rates

China has bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements that can reduce or eliminate import duties on electric motorcycles. Key FTAs include China-ASEAN FTA (reduced rates in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines and others), China-Chile FTA (0% duty), China-Pakistan FTA (preferential rates), and China-Switzerland FTA (reduced duties). To benefit from preferential rates, you need a Certificate of Origin (Form E for ASEAN, or specific FTA certificates).

Additional Taxes and Fees

Beyond import duty, expect these additional charges on your shipment: Value Added Tax (VAT) or Sales Tax — usually 5-25% applied to CIF value plus duty; Customs processing fees — fixed fees or percentages charged by the customs authority; Port handling charges; Warehousing and demurrage if containers are not cleared promptly; and Internal taxes like Brazil's ICMS or India's GST. Always factor these into your landed cost calculation to ensure your margins are accurate.

How to Calculate Your Landed Cost

Use this formula to calculate the true cost per unit:

For importers expanding into new markets, understanding your total landed cost is essential before setting wholesale or retail prices. Many markets offer EV import incentives that can significantly reduce duties — research these before finalizing your pricing strategy. Visit our Southeast Asia market overview for region-specific incentive details.

At UNR136 Moto, we provide complete customs documentation — including Certificate of Origin, Certificate of Conformity, and UN38.3 test reports — to help our importers maximize duty savings and minimize clearance delays. Contact our team for assistance with your specific market requirements.