Automotive Radar
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9014805000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8526910040 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8526910020 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8517620090 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9014804000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π Automotive Radar Systems (ADAS & Autonomous Driving)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Automotive Radar"?
Automotive Radar is the core sensory component for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Driving. It emits radio waves to detect objects, distance, and speed. In international trade, it is rarely classified as a single unified code but is split based on its functional integration and physical form:
- Standalone Radar Unit (The Sensor): A dedicated device used primarily for vehicle safety (blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control). It often falls under "Radio Navigational Aid Apparatus" or specific automotive equipment depending on local interpretation, but broadly under 8526 (Radar apparatus).
- Integrated System Component: If the radar is strictly an internal part of a larger automotive electronic system not capable of independent radio navigation function, it might be argued as an automotive part (87.08), but US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) typically requires standalone radar sensors to be classified under 8526 due to their active radio emission nature.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the device is a standalone radar module (e.g., for Blind Spot Monitoring) that emits radio signals and processes returns β HS 8526.
- If it is a complete radar apparatus (e.g., traffic radar gun, aviation radar) β HS 8526.10.
- Crucial Note: The provided DATA specifically lists codes under 8526.10 (Radar Apparatus) and 8526.91 (Radio Navigational Aid Apparatus). Even though "Automotive" isn't explicitly in the description, these are the standard classifications for standalone radar sensors used in automotive contexts when not strictly defined as "automotive parts" under Chapter 87.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authorityε―Ήη §)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
8526.10.00.40 |
Radar apparatus, other | Standalone automotive radar sensors (e.g., 77GHz mmWave radar for ACC), industrial radar level meters | Dedicated radar function, not a navigational aid |
8526.91.00.40 |
Radio navigational aid apparatus, other | Radar systems integrated into vehicle navigation/telematics units, or radar units serving as navigational aids | Functionally tied to navigation/pathfinding |
π Focus Reminder:
- The provided data only includes8526.10.00.40and8526.91.00.40.
- Most common automotive radar sensors (Blind Spot, Parking Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control) are typically classified under 8526.10.00.40 as "Radar apparatus, other" because they are distinct radar devices.
- If the radar is part of a Radio Navigational Aid system (e.g., a combined GPS/Radar nav unit), it may fall under 8526.91.00.40.
- Do not assume it is an "Automotive Part" (87.08) unless it is a non-electronic mechanical part. Electronic radar sensors go to Chapter 85.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 (Current Trade War Context)
π― 1. 8526.10.00.40 ββ Radar Apparatus, Other (Most Common for Automotive Sensors)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Section 301 / Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Section 301 tariffs do not apply to de minimis under current enforcement for this category) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8526.10.00.40 β SECTION301:Footnote |
π Explanation:
- This code captures standalone radar units. The 0% base rate is offset by the 25% additional tariff imposed under Section 301 against Chinese goods.
- Total landed cost impact is significant.
π― 2. 8526.91.00.40 ββ Radio Navigational Aid Apparatus, Other
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Section 301 / Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8526.91.00.40 β SECTION301:Footnote |
π Explanation:
- Same tax burden as above. If your automotive radar is classified as a "navigational aid" (e.g., part of a broader navigation system), the rate remains 25%.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify frequency (e.g., 77GHz, 24GHz), range, and application (Auto/Industrial). |
| β Technical Diagram | βοΈ | Show it is a "Radar Sensor" or "Navigational Aid," not just a "Electronic Module." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Automotive Radar Sensor" or "Radar Apparatus." Avoid vague terms like "Sensor Part." |
| β Country of Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Crucial for determining if Section 301 applies (if shipped from China). |
| β FCC ID / Compliance Cert | βοΈ | Radar devices require FCC authorization in the US. Missing ID β Seizure. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Be Specific: 'Radar Apparatus', Not 'Part' or 'Sensor'!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone 77GHz Sensor for ACC | HS 8526.10.00.40 "Radar Apparatus for Automotive Safety" |
Misdeclare as "Automotive Part" (87.08) β Audit Risk |
| Radar Unit with Navigation Software | HS 8526.91.00.40 "Radio Navigational Aid Apparatus" |
Misdeclare as "Computer Part" β Delay |
| Simple Microwave Detector (Non-Radar) | HS 8543 (Other) | Misdeclare as Radar β Overpay or Error |
β οΈ Warning:
- Do not use generic terms like "Radar Component" without specifying if it is a complete apparatus. CBP may reject vague descriptions.
- Ensure the FCC ID is visible on the device and declared on the invoice.
β 3. Special Circumstances
| Situation | Handling Suggestion |
|---|---|
| OEM Sensors for Car Makers | Even if for OEM, they are commercial goods. Declare as "Radar Apparatus." |
| R&D Samples | May qualify for Section 301 Exclusion if listed in current exclusion lists (check USITC exclusions). |
| Shipped from Third Country | If manufactured in Mexico/Vietnam but containing Chinese radar chips, origin rules apply. If "Wholly Obtained" there, no 25% tariff. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8526.10.00.40 / 8526.91.00.40 |
25% | FCC ID + Section 301 Compliance | High tariff barrier. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8526.10 / 8526.90 |
0% - 4% (General) | CE + E-Mark (Automotive) | No Section 301. |
| π¨π³ China | 8526.10 / 8526.91 |
0% - 5% | SRRC + MIIT | Domestic import tariff is low. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8526.10 |
0% - 2.5% | TELEC + PSE | Competitive rates. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA imposes a 25% penalty on these goods from China.
- Supply Chain Strategy: Consider sourcing from non-China origins (e.g., Japan, Europe, or Southeast Asia) to avoid the 25% surcharge.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls
β Error 1: Declaring as "Electronic Component" (8542)
π Consequence: CBP reclassifies to 8526 with 25% duty + Back Duties.
β Error 2: Missing FCC ID
π Consequence: Goods held at port, potential fines for violating communications laws.
β Error 3: Vague Description "Radar Part"
π Consequence: Customs officer assigns worst-case code. Be precise: "Automotive Adaptive Cruise Control Radar Unit."
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Automotive Radar Sensor, 77GHz, Model XYZ, for Adaptive Cruise Control, FCC ID: ABC123, Made in China"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Clearance, Cost Savings
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ HS Code
8526.10.00.40is the safest bet for standalone automotive radar.
πΉ Total Tax is 25% (Base 0% + Surcharge 25%).
πΉ FCC Compliance is Non-Negotiable.πΉ "Classify as Radar, Not Part. Pay the 25%, or Shift Supply Chain."
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing high volumes, check the USITC Section 301 Exclusion List for 8526.10.00.40. If excluded, your tariff could drop to 0%. Exclusions are product-specific and time-bound.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify FCC ID.
π¦ Confirm Country of Origin.
π Declare accurately as "Radar Apparatus."
β¨ Precise Classification Saves Millions!
πΌ Don't let a 25% tariff erase your automotive tech profit.
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.