Find HS Code and trade information for megaphone

Megaphone

A megaphone, also known as a speaking trumpet, bullhorn, or loudhailer, is a portable, cone-shaped amplification device used to make a person's voice louder.

Material:

Traditionally, megaphones were constructed from materials like metal (brass, aluminum), wood, or tightly rolled paper or plastic. Modern megaphones predominantly utilize plastic for both the cone and handle, sometimes incorporating metal components for reinforcement.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a megaphone is to project sound over a greater distance than the unaided human voice allows. This is achieved by focusing sound waves through the cone's aperture.

Function:

A megaphone functions by increasing the acoustic impedance mismatch between the speaker’s vocal cords and the surrounding air. The cone acts as a horn, directing and concentrating sound energy. The wider end of the cone captures sound waves from the speaker, and the narrower end focuses these waves into a more directional output. This increases the intensity of the sound in a specific direction.

Usage Scenarios:

• Public Safety: Law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency responders utilize megaphones for crowd control, issuing warnings, and directing evacuations.
• Sports: Coaches use megaphones to communicate with players during practices and games. Cheerleaders also employ them to lead chants.
• Events & Demonstrations: Protest organizers, rally leaders, and event coordinators use megaphones to address large groups.
• Construction & Outdoor Work: Site managers use megaphones to communicate instructions to workers over noise.
• Marine Applications: Used on boats for signaling and communication.

Common Types:

• Acoustic Megaphones: These are non-electronic and rely solely on the shape of the cone to amplify sound. They are lightweight and do not require batteries.
• Electronic Megaphones: These incorporate an amplifier and microphone to further boost sound levels. They typically have adjustable volume controls and may include features like siren modes and recording capabilities. Electronic megaphones often require batteries or external power sources.
• Rechargeable Megaphones: A type of electronic megaphone with built-in rechargeable batteries.
• Hands-Free Megaphones: Include a headset microphone allowing the user to operate without holding the device.
• Digital Megaphones: Advanced electronic megaphones with features like MP3 playback and USB recording.

Based on the provided information, a megaphone falls under the category of festive, carnival or other entertainment articles. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 9505902000: Festive, carnival or other entertainment articles, including magic tricks and practical joke articles; parts and accessories thereof: Other: Magic tricks and practical joke articles; parts and accessories thereof. This code covers entertainment articles, which could include megaphones used for recreational or event purposes.
• 9505906000: Festive, carnival or other entertainment articles, including magic tricks and practical joke articles; parts and accessories thereof: Other: Other. This is a broader category for entertainment articles not specifically classified elsewhere within the 9505 heading.

HS Code Explanation:

• 95: Chapter 95 covers miscellaneous manufactured articles.
• 05: Heading 9505 specifically relates to festive, carnival, or other entertainment articles.
• 90: Subheading 950590 covers "other" articles within this category.
• 20: Further specifies magic tricks and practical joke articles; parts and accessories thereof.
• 60: Represents a broader "other" classification within the 9505.90 subheading.

Tariff Information:

Both HS codes 9505902000 and 9505906000 currently have a base tariff of 0.0% and a surcharge tariff of 0.0%. However, a surcharge tariff of 30.0% will be applied after April 2, 2025. Therefore, the total tariff rate will be 30.0% after this date.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'megaphone' are limited, with only the following 2 found.