Aerospace tariff strategy: HTS Chapter 88 covers aircraft and parts. USMCA Annex 4-B provides specific aerospace rules of origin distinct from general goods. BIS/EAR export controls run in parallel. ITAR for defense articles. Section 122 applies to most non-USMCA aerospace.

This guide covers Aerospace Industry Tariff Strategy. Sector-specific tariff strategy considers HS classification patterns, applicable special tariff regimes (Section 232/301/122), and FTA opportunities.

Practical implementation depends on company size, sector, and operational structure.

HTS Chapter 88 structure

Aircraft, helicopters, parts. Specialty parts often at boundary subheadings between aircraft parts and general machinery.

USMCA Annex 4-B

Aerospace-specific tariff-shift rules. Most aerospace components qualify under Annex 4-B.

BIS/EAR and ITAR

Parallel export controls. Tariff layer plus export controls layer = coordination work.

Boeing Charleston ecosystem

SC aerospace cluster. USMCA + Section 232 (where applicable) + Section 122 considerations.

Frequently asked questions

When does this apply?

Most relevant for SMB importers in the named sector or facing the named situation.

What documentation matters?

Standard CBP forms, supplier certificates, BOM analysis, and topic-specific records.

What is the timeline?

Initial assessment 2-4 weeks; full implementation 8-16 weeks depending on scope.

What does this cost?

Project work $5,000-$25,000 depending on complexity. Ongoing retainer for active operations.

How do I begin?

Book a 15-minute scoping call. We confirm fit before any engagement.

Get started

Run a sector-specific tariff exposure assessment for your business.

About the author

Kyle Peacock is the Principal of Peacock Tariff Consulting, an independent tariff and customs advisory firm serving SMB importers across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the E.U. He has been quoted in Forbes, CNN, The Washington Post, BBC, CBC, CTV, Financial Post, Nasdaq, Supply Chain Brain, and Harvard Business School publications. Connect on LinkedIn.