Find HS Code and trade information for switch cover plates

Switch Cover Plates

Switch cover plates, also known as switch plates or faceplates, are protective and decorative covers used to enclose electrical switches, receptacles, and other wall-mounted electrical fixtures. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Material

• Plastic: The most common material due to its low cost, non-conductivity, and ease of manufacturing. Typically made from thermoset polymers like nylon or polycarbonate.
• Metal: Offers durability and a more premium appearance. Commonly made from stainless steel, brass, or aluminum. Often used in commercial settings or where a robust finish is desired.
• Wood: Provides a traditional or rustic aesthetic. Often used in older homes or for specific design preferences. Requires careful sealing to prevent moisture damage.
• Ceramic: Offers a unique, decorative finish. Less common due to higher cost and fragility.

Purpose

• Safety: Cover exposed electrical components, reducing the risk of electric shock.
• Protection: Shield switches and receptacles from physical damage.
• Aesthetics: Provide a finished look to walls and blend with interior décor.
• Code Compliance: Many electrical codes require the use of cover plates for safety reasons.

Function

Cover plates do not have active electrical functions. They are passive components that mount over existing electrical fixtures. They are secured to the electrical box using screws. They provide a barrier between the user and the electrical components, preventing accidental contact.

Usage Scenarios

• Residential: Standard use in homes for covering light switches, outlets, and other electrical connections.
• Commercial: Used in offices, retail spaces, and other commercial buildings for durability and a professional appearance.
• Industrial: Heavy-duty metal plates are used in industrial settings to protect against harsh environments and physical damage.
• Renovations & New Construction: Integral part of completing electrical installations.

Common Types

• Standard Size: The most common type, typically used for single, double, or triple switches/receptacles. Dimensions are usually 4.84 inches x 2.75 inches.
• Oversized/Jumbo Size: Used to cover larger electrical boxes or to provide a more prominent decorative effect.
• Toggle Switch Plates: Designed specifically for switches with toggle-style actuators.
• Rocker Switch Plates: Designed for switches with rocker-style actuators.
• Duplex/Combination Plates: Accommodate multiple switches and/or receptacles in a single plate.
• Blank Plates: Used to cover unused openings in electrical boxes.
• Data/Low Voltage Plates: Designed for covering low-voltage connections like Ethernet, coaxial cable, or speaker wires.
• Specialty Plates: Include features like built-in USB chargers, nightlights, or dimmer controls.

Switch cover plates fall under articles used for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits. Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 8536908585: This HS code covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits (for example, switches, relays, fuses, surge suppressors, plugs, sockets, lamp-holders and other connectors, junction boxes), for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V. It specifically includes “other apparatus”. The base tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. A further 25% tariff applies to steel or aluminum products. The total tariff rate is 80.0%.

• 8310000000: This HS code covers sign plates, name plates, address plates and similar plates, numbers, letters and other symbols, and parts thereof, of base metal, excluding those of heading 9405. The base tariff is 0.0%, with an additional tariff of 25.0%, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is 55.0%. This may be applicable if the switch cover plates are primarily considered signage.

• 3926904000: This HS code covers other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914, specifically “imitation gemstones”. While not a direct match, if the switch cover plates are made of plastic and have a decorative appearance, this code might be considered. The base tariff is 2.8%, with an additional tariff of 0.0%, and a further tariff of 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is 32.8%.

• 3926909989: This HS code covers other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914, specifically “other”. If the switch cover plates are made of plastic and do not fall into other specific categories, this code might be applicable. The base tariff is 5.3%, with an additional tariff of 7.5%, and a further tariff of 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is 42.8%.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'switch cover plates' are limited, with only the following 4 found.

It is important to verify the material composition of the switch cover plates (steel, aluminum, plastic, or other base metal) to determine the correct HS code and applicable tariff rates.