Find HS Code and trade information for plastic game console

Plastic Game Console

A plastic game console refers to a handheld or home video game console with a primary enclosure constructed from plastic materials. These consoles encompass a broad range of devices, varying significantly in functionality, processing power, and target audience.

Materials

The dominant material is various types of plastic, most commonly:

• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Frequently used for the main console body due to its impact resistance, rigidity, and affordability.
• Polycarbonate: Employed for parts requiring higher impact strength or transparency (e.g., screen covers).
• Polypropylene: Can be found in internal components and less stressed exterior parts.
• Other plastics: May include blends and specialized plastics for specific features or aesthetic qualities. Increasingly, manufacturers are exploring recycled plastics.

Purpose

The primary purpose is to provide a portable or dedicated platform for playing video games. This can range from simple, single-game devices to sophisticated systems capable of running complex titles and connecting to online services.

Function

Core functionality includes:

• Processing: A central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU) execute game code and render visuals.
• Display: An integrated screen (LCD, OLED, etc.) presents the game output.
• Input: Buttons, directional pads (D-pads), joysticks, touchscreens, and motion sensors allow user interaction.
• Storage: Internal flash memory, cartridge slots, or optical disc drives store game data.
• Power: Batteries (rechargeable or disposable) or an AC adapter provide power.
• Audio: Speakers and/or headphone jacks deliver sound effects and music.
• Connectivity: May include ports for charging, video output (HDMI, composite), audio output, and network connection (Wi-Fi, Ethernet).

Usage Scenarios

• Portable Gaming: Handheld consoles are designed for on-the-go entertainment.
• Home Entertainment: Home consoles connect to televisions for a larger screen experience.
• Retro Gaming: Many plastic consoles are dedicated to emulating classic games.
• Educational Gaming: Some consoles are targeted towards children and feature educational games.
• Niche Gaming: Specialized consoles may focus on specific genres or gaming communities.

Common Types

• Handheld Consoles: Compact, battery-powered devices like the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, and older models like the Game Boy and PSP.
• Home Consoles: Larger systems designed to be connected to a television, such as the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch (docked mode).
• Retro Consoles: Dedicated to playing classic games, often through emulation or pre-loaded titles. Examples include the Retron series and various mini-consoles.
• Single-Game Consoles: Consoles with a single game pre-installed, often marketed as affordable entertainment options.
• Hybrid Consoles: Systems that can be used both as handheld and home consoles (e.g., Nintendo Switch).
• Micro Consoles: Small, low-cost consoles, often focused on streaming or simple games.

Plastic Game Console Classification

Based on the provided information, classifying a “plastic game console” requires careful consideration of its specific features and intended use. Here's a breakdown of potentially relevant HS codes:

• 9504.50.00.00: This code covers “Video game consoles and machines, other than those of subheading 9504.30, and parts and accessories thereof”. If the console is primarily designed for playing video games, this is a strong candidate. The total tax rate is 30.0%, comprising a base tariff of 0.0%, a surcharge of 0.0%, and an additional surcharge of 30.0% effective April 2, 2025.
• 3926.90.10.00: This code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Buckets and pails”. While seemingly unrelated, if the plastic console resembles a bucket or pail in its construction, this code could apply. The total tax rate is 40.9%, consisting of a base tariff of 3.4%, a surcharge of 7.5%, and an additional surcharge of 30.0% effective April 2, 2025.
• 3926.90.99.89: This code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other”. If the console is made of plastic but doesn’t fall into the more specific categories within 3926.90, this is a possibility. The total tax rate is 42.8%, comprising a base tariff of 5.3%, a surcharge of 7.5%, and an additional surcharge of 30.0% effective April 2, 2025.
• 8543.70.88.00: This code covers “Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof: Other machines and apparatus: Other: Electrical machines with translation or dictionary functions; video game console controllers which use infrared transmissions to operate or access the various functions and capabilities of the console”. If the console incorporates features beyond basic gaming (e.g., translation, dictionary), or if it’s being classified specifically as a controller, this code may be relevant. The total tax rate is 30.0%, consisting of a base tariff of 0.0%, a surcharge of 0.0%, and an additional surcharge of 30.0% effective April 2, 2025.

Important Considerations:

• Material Composition: The precise composition of the plastic used in the console’s construction is important.
• Functionality: If the console has features beyond basic gaming, this could influence the appropriate HS code.
• Controller Type: If the console is being shipped with a controller, the controller’s functionality (e.g., infrared transmission) may affect classification.

Please Note:

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'plastic game console' are limited, with only the following 4 found. It is crucial to carefully evaluate the console’s features and intended use to determine the most accurate classification.