Sourcing rechargeable inspection lamps from China
Rechargeable inspection lamps that operate from their own batteries, and their parts, carry a flat 4% UK duty from China. WEEE obligations apply; confirm applicable battery obligations with the relevant authority and check lithium transport documents and the exact lamp's compliance evidence before ordering. Cambridge China Bridge sources rechargeable inspection lamps.
A flat 4% duty on battery inspection lamps
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 17 October 2026, heading 8513 covers portable electric lamps designed to operate from their own energy source, including rechargeable inspection lamps. Complete lamps fall under 8513 10 00 00 and parts under 8513 90 00 00. The lamp variants in the table share the same code.
Both lines carry 4% duty for goods from China. The supplied tariff record lists no anti-dumping or countervailing measures, suspensions or attached import controls. This does not remove product compliance obligations.
Confirm the commodity code using the lamp's power source, function and supplied accessories. Mains-powered lamps belong to heading 9405. See torches and head torches for the wider portable-lamp family.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rechargeable handheld inspection lamps | 8513 10 00 00 | 4% | None |
| Parts for portable rechargeable inspection lamps | 8513 90 00 00 | 4% | None |
Specify the beam, battery and mounting system
Specify flood and spot modes separately, usable run time at each setting, charging connection, cell model, battery capacity and whether the battery is replaceable. Agree the folding joint, hook opening, magnetic holding surface and grip material. Ask for an approved sample with the exact charging cable and any mains charger included in the order.
For sale in Great Britain, hazardous-substance restrictions apply to electrical equipment unless specifically excluded. Electromagnetic compatibility rules cover equipment liable to generate electromagnetic disturbance, subject to exceptions. Ask the testing provider to assess the lamp and charger configuration and review its compliance documents through testing and certification.
Confirm applicable battery rules with the relevant authority; WEEE obligations apply. Electrical-equipment producers must register annually. For lithium models, confirm the transport testing and test-summary requirements with the relevant transport authority or your forwarder. Request documents identifying the actual cell supplied, rather than a report for a different battery.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative order, not a quote: 1,000 rechargeable inspection lamps under 8513 10 00 00, invoiced at £12,000 free on board, with £600 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £12,600. Duty at 4% is £504. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £13,104, so it is £2,620.80. Import taxes total £3,124.80; a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim the VAT, so the lasting cost is the £504 of duty. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Light and run time: compare production samples with the approved sample on a close working surface, check each mode and record brightness through the claimed run time.
Charging and cells: charge from empty, monitor temperature, check the connector and cable fit, and match cell identification to the battery and transport documents.
Mounts and housing: test magnetic grip on the agreed surface, operate the folding joint and hook repeatedly, and check lens retention, seals and the claimed impact and water resistance.
Documents and packing: match the lamp model to reports, instructions and markings, check battery and WEEE marking, and inspect carton protection around hinges and lenses. Arrange quality inspection against the agreed specification.
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What goes wrong
A lamp can look bright when switched on but dim well before its advertised run time. Cell substitutions, overheating charge circuits and loose charging sockets can turn a satisfactory sample into unreliable stock. Compare production cells with the approved specification and test charging and discharge on bulk samples.
Magnetic bases can slip on painted or curved surfaces, hooks can release under load and folding joints can sag while the lamp is in use. Define the intended mounting surface and working position before approving the sample, then repeat those checks on arrival.
Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For components and parts, see sourcing for manufacturers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on rechargeable inspection lamps from China?
The supplied tariff record shows 4% for complete portable battery lamps under 8513 10 00 00 and their parts under 8513 90 00 00, with no listed anti-dumping or countervailing measures.
What battery documents should I ask the factory for?
Ask for cell identification, battery safety evidence and the lithium transport test summary. Match these to the production battery and confirm shipping documents with the forwarder.
How do I check an inspection lamp's run time?
Test production samples at the agreed brightness setting and record how output changes during discharge. Check useful light on the intended working surface, rather than only whether the lamp remains lit.
How should I test a magnetic inspection lamp?
Use the agreed painted, flat or curved working surface. Check that the lamp holds its intended position with the folding joint extended and that the hook and joint remain secure after repeated operation.