Keyboard and Mouse

⌨️🖱️ 键盘与鼠标套装（Keyboards & Mice for Automatic Data Processing Machines）

🌐 HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Understanding the "Input Unit"

Keyboards and Mice are the primary Input Devices for Automatic Data Processing (ADP) machines. In international trade, their classification hinges on two critical factors: 1. Function: Are they standalone input units (Chapter 84) or data transmission equipment (Chapter 85)? 2. Composition: Are they complete sets (Kit) or individual components?

⚠️ Key Distinction Points: - If the product is a standalone keyboard (with or without wireless connectivity), it is primarily an input device → Chapter 84. - If the product is marketed primarily as a data transmission device (wireless receiver/adapter focus) → Chapter 85. - If sold as a Bundle/Set (Keyboard + Mouse + Receiver), it is often classified as "Parts/Accessories" or "Other Input Devices" under Chapter 84, depending on the specific duty structure.

📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)

Based on the provided data analysis, here are the five possible HS Codes and their matching logic:

🔍 Critical Insight: - Code 8471.60.20.00 is the MOST COST-EFFECTIVE if you can justify the product as a single Keyboard unit, even if wireless. - Codes 8471.60.90.50 and 8473.30.91.00 carry the full burden of Section 301 tariffs (25%), making them significantly more expensive. - Code 8517.69.00.00 shifts the narrative to "Telecommunications/Data Transmission," incurring the highest combined taxes.

💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Time: Post-2025/2026 Regulations

🎯 1. 8471.60.20.00 —— Wireless Keyboard (Input Unit)

The Optimal Strategy for Lower Duty

📌 Explanation: - This code benefits from an exemption from the 25% Section 301 tariff. - It only attracts the 10% "122 Clause" tariff. - Total Cost Impact: Significantly lower than other codes. Ideal for standalone keyboards or keyboards marketed primarily as input devices.

🎯 2. 8517.69.00.00 —— Data Transmission Equipment

High-Cost Alternative

📌 Note: - If customs authorities view the wireless dongle/receiver as the primary "data transmission" component, this code may apply. - Avoid if you can justify input device classification, as the 25% surcharge is substantial.

🎯 3. 8471.60.90.50 & 8473.30.91.00 —— Bundled Sets / Parts & Accessories

Standard High-Duty Classification

📌 Note: - These codes apply to Mouse-Keyboard Sets, Bundles, or Parts. - They do NOT enjoy the Section 301 exemption that 8471.60.20.00 might offer. - Risk: If you declare a set as "Keyboard" (8471.60.20.00) but customs sees a mouse, they may reclassify to 8473.30.91.00 or 8471.60.90.50, leading to back taxes + penalties.

🛠️ IV. Clearance Operational Advice (Practical Pitfall Avoidance)

✅ 1. Preparation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)

✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (The "Golden Rules")

🔥 "Function First, Form Second, Name Precise!"

📌 Pro Tip: - If you MUST import a Set (KB+Mouse), consider splitting the shipment: - Shipment A: Keyboards only (HS: 8471.60.20.00 @ 10%) - Shipment B: Mice only (Check if Mouse has similar exemption; if not, it may still be 35%, but separating them allows better scrutiny). - Do NOT put them in one box labeled "Keyboard Set" if you want to pursue the 10% rate.

✅ 3. Special Case Handling

🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Snapshot)

📌 Conclusion: - USA is the only market with the complex "122 Clause" + "Section 301" dynamic. - Leverage the 8471.60.20.00 exemption for keyboards to save 25% in duties compared to sets or transmission devices.

📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)

❌ Error 1: Declaring a Keyboard + Mouse Set as 8471.60.20.00 (Keyboard Only)
👉 Consequence: Customs flags for "Incomplete Declaration". May reclassify to 8473.30.91.00 → Back taxes of ~25% + Penalties.

❌ Error 2: Using "Data Transmission Device" for a simple Keyboard
👉 Consequence: Unnecessarily high duty (35% vs 10%). No benefit, just cost.

❌ Error 3: Vague Description ("Computer Accessories")
👉 Consequence: Customs assigns worst-case scenario tariff. Delays in clearance.

❌ Error 4: Ignoring FCC ID for Wireless Products
👉 Consequence: Seizure by CBP. Wireless devices MUST have valid FCC ID.

✅ Correct Declaration Example:

"Wireless Keyboard, Bluetooth & 2.4G, Input Device for Automatic Data Processing Machine, Model XYZ, FCC ID: ABC123"

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Lower Costs!

🎯 Remember the Mantra:

🔹 "Keyboard is 10%, Set is 35%. Don't bundle if you want to save!"
🔹 "Input Unit vs. Transmission: It's all about the 25% difference!"
🔹 "Be specific. Be accurate. Be cheap."

📌 Pro Tip: If you are importing high-volume keyboards, consider: 1. Separating Shipments: Ship keyboards and mice separately. 2. Advance Ruling: Request a CBP Advance Ruling for your specific product to lock in the 8471.60.20.00 classification. 3. Supply Chain: If possible, source keyboards from non-China origins (e.g., Vietnam, Mexico) to avoid all Chinese surtaxes (0% Base + 0% Sec 301 + 0% 122).

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Consult your customs broker with the product photos and specify "Input Device" function.
🚀 Avoid "Transmission" language unless it's a pure receiver/dongle.
💼 Save 25% in duties by choosing the right HS Code for your Keyboard!

✨ Precision in Classification = Profit in Your Pocket!
💼 Your Bottom Line Deserves the Lowest Legal Duty Rate!