| HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8513102000 | Portable electric lamps designed to function by their own source of energy (for example, dry batteries, storage batteries, magnetos), other than lighting equipment of heading 8512; parts thereof: Lamps: Flashlights | Doc | 42.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8513104000 | Portable electric lamps designed to function by their own source of energy (for example, dry batteries, storage batteries, magnetos), other than lighting equipment of heading 8512; parts thereof: Lamps: Other | Doc | 33.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9405490000 | Luminaires and lighting fittings including searchlights and spotlights and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included; illuminated signs, illuminated nameplates and the like, having a permanently fixed light source, and parts thereof not elsewhere specified or included: Other electric luminaires and lighting fittings: Other | Doc | 58.9% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, let's break down the HS codes and tax implications for your "PORTABLE LIGHT" declaration. Here's a structured analysis to help you understand the classification and potential costs:
Understanding HS Codes – A Quick Primer
HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are internationally standardized codes used to classify traded products. The first 6 digits are generally consistent worldwide, while additional digits can vary by country. Here's how to interpret them:
- Chapter (First 2 digits): Broad category of the product.
- Heading (First 4 digits): More specific classification within the chapter.
- Subheading (First 6 digits): Even more detailed classification.
- Additional Digits: Country-specific for further refinement.
Analysis of Your HS Codes
Let's examine each code provided:
1. HS Code: 8513.10.20.00 – Flashlights (Portable electric lamps designed to function by their own source of energy)
- Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment. This indicates your product is an electrical device.
- Heading 8513: Portable electrical lamps. Specifically designed to be moved around and powered independently.
- Subheading 8513.10: Lamps designed to function by their own source of energy (batteries, etc.).
- 8513.10.20.00: Specifically Flashlights.
- Tax:
- Basic Duty: 12.5%
- Additional Duty: 0.0% (Currently)
- Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 42.5% (Currently)
2. HS Code: 8513.10.40.00 – Other Portable Electric Lamps
- Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
- Heading 8513: Portable electrical lamps.
- Subheading 8513.10: Lamps designed to function by their own source of energy.
- 8513.10.40.00: This covers other portable electric lamps not specifically classified as flashlights. This is a broader category.
- Tax:
- Basic Duty: 3.5%
- Additional Duty: 0.0% (Currently)
- Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 33.5% (Currently)
3. HS Code: 9405.49.00.00 – Other Electric Luminaires and Lighting Fittings
- Chapter 94: Furniture; bedding, mattresses, support, stuffing and similar furnishings; lamps and lighting fittings.
- Heading 9405: Luminaires and lighting fittings.
- Subheading 9405.49: Other electric luminaires and lighting fittings. This is a more general category, potentially including lamps with more complex designs or features.
- Tax:
- Basic Duty: 3.9%
- Additional Duty: 25.0%
- Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 58.9%
Key Considerations & Recommendations:
- Accurate Description is Crucial: The difference between 8513.10.20.00 (Flashlights) and 8513.10.40.00 (Other) hinges on the specific design and function. If your lamps are clearly flashlights, use the first code. If they have more features (e.g., adjustable brightness, different light modes, integrated power banks), 8513.10.40.00 might be more appropriate.
- Material Composition: The material used in the lamp's construction can sometimes influence classification.
- Functionality: If your lamps are more than just basic lighting (e.g., they include speakers, fans, or other features), 9405.49.00.00 might be the correct code.
- Post-April 2, 2025 Duty Changes: Be aware of the significant increase in additional duties coming into effect. Factor this into your cost calculations.
- Certification: Depending on the type of lamp and destination country, you may need certifications (e.g., CE, RoHS, FCC). Please verify the specific requirements for your target market.
- Single Declaration: If you are importing multiple types of portable lights, consider whether they can be declared under a single HS code or if separate declarations are necessary.
- Invoice Details: Ensure your commercial invoice clearly describes the goods, materials, and functionality of the lamps.
To help me provide more specific guidance, could you tell me:
- What are the primary features of your portable lights?
- What materials are they made of?
- What is the intended use of the lamps?
- What country are you importing to?
Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive customs classification advice. This information is for general guidance only. It is always best to consult with a qualified customs broker or import specialist for accurate classification and compliance.