| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8512202040 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
CAR TAIL LIGHT - HS Code 8512.20.20.40 - Customs Classification & Considerations
This document details the customs classification, tariff details, and important considerations for importing CAR TAIL LIGHTS under HS Code 8512.20.20.40.
1. HS Code Breakdown:
- 85: Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recording or reproducing apparatus, television-image transmission or reproduction apparatus, and parts and accessories of such articles. This chapter broadly covers electrical components.
- 12: Electrical lighting or signaling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539), windshield wipers, defrosters and demisters, of a kind used for cycles or motor vehicles; parts thereof. This narrows down to lighting and signaling equipment for vehicles.
- 20: Other lighting or visual signaling equipment. Specifically, this covers lighting equipment not specifically classified elsewhere within 8512.
- 20.40: Lighting equipment For vehicles of subheading 8701.21, 8701.22, 8701.23, 8701.24 or 8701.29 or heading 8702, 8703, 8704, 8705 or 8711. This is the specific code for tail lights used on cars, trucks, and similar vehicles.
2. Product Description & Scope:
This HS code covers tail lights, brake lights, and other lighting/visual signaling equipment designed for motor vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, etc.). It excludes lights for bicycles (covered elsewhere) and specialized signaling equipment not primarily for illumination.
3. Tariff Details (as provided):
- Basic Duty: 0.0%
- Additional Tariff: 25.0%
- Additional Tariff (Post April 2, 2025): 30.0%
- Total Tariff: 55.0% (This is the combined effect of the basic and additional tariffs.)
4. Important Considerations & Potential Issues:
- Vehicle Type: Ensure the lights are genuinely designed for vehicles falling within the specified subheadings (8701.21-8701.29, 8702-8705, 8711). Lights for other vehicle types may have different classifications.
- Material Composition: The material used in the construction of the tail lights can affect tariff rates in some cases. Be prepared to provide detailed material specifications.
- Single vs. Combined Units: If the tail light is part of a larger assembly (e.g., a combined tail light/brake light/turn signal unit), the classification may need to be reviewed.
- Certification: Depending on the destination country's regulations, you may need to provide certifications demonstrating compliance with safety standards (e.g., ECE regulations, SAE standards). Please verify the specific requirements for your import destination.
- Valuation: Accurate valuation is crucial. Customs authorities will scrutinize the declared value to ensure it reflects the true transaction price.
- Post April 2, 2025 Tariff Changes: Be aware of the upcoming tariff increase on April 2, 2025. Plan your imports accordingly.
5. Required Documentation (Typical):
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Certificate of Origin (may be required for preferential tariff treatment)
- Technical Specifications (including material composition)
- Certifications (if applicable)
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional customs advice. Customs regulations are complex and subject to change. It is strongly recommended to consult with a licensed customs broker or freight forwarder for specific advice tailored to your import situation.