Sourcing electric chain hoists from China

Electric hoist classification and duty

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 30 September 2026, electric motor-powered hoists under 8425 11 00 00 carry 0% duty for goods from China. The supplied tariff record lists no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspension or attached import control for this line.

Heading 8425 covers pulley tackle and hoists other than skip hoists, winches, capstans and jacks. Electric chain hoists sit within its electric hoist line. The table shows configurations sharing that line, rather than separate tariff subdivisions. Compare manual chain blocks when choosing between powered and manual lifting.

Confirm the commodity code against the complete assembly and its intended function, especially where a trolley or other equipment is supplied together. The illustrative order uses the electric hoist line; see import duty and VAT for the calculation method.

Specify the load chain, suspension and controls

Specify rated load, lifting height, available headroom, lifting speed, duty cycle, supply voltage, frequency and phase. State whether the hoist hangs from a hook, fixed mounting or travelling trolley. For a trolley, provide the beam profile and flange dimensions rather than relying on a catalogue photograph.

Agree the load-chain grade and pitch, matching pocket wheel, chain container, hook latch, brake arrangement, pendant controls and upper and lower travel limits. Request drawings and model-specific test records. For Great Britain, confirm the applicable machinery safety, CE or UKCA marking, declaration of conformity and English-instruction requirements with the relevant authority.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: 300 electric chain hoists, illustrative only under 8425 11 00 00, invoiced at £48,000 free on board, with £3,200 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £51,200. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £51,200, so it is £10,240. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.

Inspection checklist

Load path: check chain grade and pitch against the agreed specification, smooth engagement with the pocket wheel, hook condition and latch operation.

Brake and travel: have competent personnel check rated-load holding, lifting and lowering, limit switches and pendant emergency stop in a controlled test arrangement.

Suspension and trolley: check mounting dimensions, beam fit, travel operation, chain-container clearance and transport damage on arrival.

Documents and marking: match the model and serial number to the test certificate, declaration and English manual; check rated-load marking and static and dynamic test records. Arrange quality inspection before dispatch.

What goes wrong

A chain that does not match the pocket wheel can run poorly; a slipping brake cannot hold the load safely. Incorrect beam dimensions, insufficient headroom or unsuitable electrical supply can also make an otherwise functioning hoist unusable at the buyer's site. Resolve these details in the approved specification.

Do not assume a factory test certificate settles workplace examination duties. Ask the relevant authority to confirm the applicable thorough examination requirements under the lifting equipment regulations, including where safety depends on installation or assembly. Agree who handles installation and examination before putting the hoist into workplace service.

Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For machinery and equipment, see machinery imports.