Portable electric lamp
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8513102000 | 22.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8513104000 | 13.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9405214010 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9405294010 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π¦ Portable Electric Lamps (Handheld Torches & Flashlights)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Portable Electric Lamps"?
Portable electric lamps, commonly known as flashlights or torches, are self-contained lighting devices powered by their own energy source (dry batteries, storage batteries, or magnetos). They are distinct from automotive lighting equipment (Heading 8512).
In international trade, these products are primarily categorized into two groups:
1. Flashlights (Specific Design):
Traditional handheld torches designed for general illumination, often with a reflector and lens system.
2. Other Portable Lamps:
Specialized handheld lights that do not fit the standard "flashlight" definition, such as tactical lights, multi-function keychain lights, or specialized industrial handheld luminaires.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the lamp is designed specifically as a standard flashlight (battery-powered, handheld) β Classified under 8513.10.20.00
- If it is a portable lamp but not a standard flashlight (e.g., unique design, specialized function) β Classified under 8513.10.40.00
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Tariff Rate (CN Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
8513.10.20.00 |
Lamps: Flashlights | Standard handheld torches, tactical flashlights, keychain lights | 12.5% |
8513.10.40.00 |
Lamps: Other | Non-standard portable lamps, specialized handheld luminaires | 3.5% |
9405.21.40.10 |
Electric Table Luminaires (LED) | LED Brass Household Table Lamps | 28.7% |
9405.29.40.10 |
Other Electric Luminaires | Non-LED Brass Household Table/Desk Lamps | 28.7% |
π Critical Note:
- Heading 9405 (Luminaires) applies to fixed or stationary lighting (e.g., table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling fixtures).
- Heading 8513 applies to portable, self-contained batteries.
- Misclassification Risk: Do NOT classify a battery-powered portable light as a "Table Lamp" (9405). This leads to a massive tariff jump (3.5% vs. 28.7%) and potential customs delays due to incorrect description.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (With Additional Duties & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 Current Regulations
π― 1. 8513.10.20.00 ββ Flashlights
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 12.5% |
| Additional Surcharge | 0.0% (Note: Some general items may face Section 301, but flashlight-specific data shows 0.0% addition here) |
| Total Tariff | 12.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 12.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check: Generally, shipments under $800 (de minimis) may be exempt, but verify current IEEPA/USITC restrictions for electronics. |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:8513.10.20.00 β Base Rate: 12.5% |
π Explanation:
- This is the standard classification for flashlights.
- The tariff is moderate (12.5%) compared to household lighting fixtures.
- No additional Section 301 surcharge is indicated for this specific subheading in the provided data, making it cost-effective for bulk imports.
π― 2. 8513.10.40.00 ββ Other Portable Lamps
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.5% |
| Additional Surcharge | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff | 3.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 3.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check: Subject to de minimis rules; typically eligible for $800 exemption if compliant. |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:8513.10.40.00 β Base Rate: 3.5% |
π Note:
- If your portable lamp does not fit the strict definition of a "flashlight" (e.g., a unique handheld LED work light with specific features not typical of standard torches), it may fall under "Other."
- This offers a significant tariff advantage (3.5%) compared to flashlights (12.5%).
- Strategy: Ensure product description and technical specs align with "Other" to qualify for the lower rate, if applicable.
π« Excluded: Household Luminaires (9405.21.40.10 / 9405.29.40.10)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.7% |
| Additional Surcharge | 25.0% (Section 301) |
| Total Tariff | 28.7% |
| Applicability | DO NOT USE for portable battery lamps. |
| Note | These HS Codes are for Brass Household Table/Desk Luminaires (fixed lighting). Misclassifying portable lamps here results in a 25.2% higher tax burden. |
π Critical Warning:
- Do not classify battery-powered portable lights under Heading 9405.
- Heading 9405 is for luminaires with permanently fixed light sources intended for home/office use, not portable devices.
- Tax Difference: 28.7% vs. 3.5%-12.5% = Massive savings opportunity by correct classification.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Field Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Power source (Battery type), Wattage, IP rating, Material |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the lamp, batteries, and packaging. Show "Flashlight" vs. "Table Lamp" distinction |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must use precise description: "Portable Electric Flashlight" or "Handheld LED Lamp" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List quantity, weight, and dimensions. Separate batteries if required (UN38.3 for lithium) |
| β Battery Compliance Docs | βοΈ | UN38.3, MSDS for lithium batteries. Critical for air/sea freight |
| β Certification | βοΈ | FCC (for US), CE (for EU), RoHS. Ensure no LED table lamp markings |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Portable = 8513, Fixed = 9405. Check Battery, Check Design!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Handheld Torch | 8513.10.20.00 |
9405.21.40.10 |
Pay 28.7% instead of 12.5% |
| Unique Portable Work Light | 8513.10.40.00 |
8513.10.20.00 |
Overpay 9% (12.5% vs 3.5%) |
| Brass Table Lamp (AC Power) | 9405.21.40.10 |
8513.10.20.00 |
Misclassification, detention, penalties |
| Keychain LED Light | 8513.10.20.00 or .40.00 |
9405... |
Major tariff increase |
β 3. Special Considerations
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Lithium Battery Included | Must provide UN38.3 Test Report and MSDS. Lithium batteries are restricted in air freight. |
| LED vs. Bulb | LED portable lights are still classified under 8513 if portable. Do not let "LED" trick you into 9405. |
| Waterproof Rating | Specify IP67/IP68 in description. May affect duty if classified as "specialized," but generally remains 8513. |
| Brand & OEM | If OEM, provide authorization letter. Avoid trademark infringement claims. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (CN Origin) | Certification Requirements | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8513.10.20.00 |
12.5% | FCC + UL (Recommended) | 0% additional surcharge for this code |
| π¨π³ China | 8513.10.20.00 |
20% (Import) | CCC (if applicable) | No major surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8513.10.20.00 |
0-2.5% | CE + RoHS + WEEE | Low duty, strict environmental rules |
| π¬π§ UK | 8513.10.20.00 |
0-2.5% | UKCA + CE | Post-Brexit standards apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8513.10.20.00 |
5% | RCM (Electrical Safety) | Moderate duty |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers a moderate 12.5% tariff for standard flashlights, with no additional 25% surcharge in this specific data.
- EU/UK are the most favorable for duty (0-2.5%), but have strict CE/RoHS/WEEE compliance.
- Avoid 9405 unless the product is a fixed, AC-powered table lamp.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying a battery-powered flashlight as a Table Lamp (9405)
π Consequence: Pay 28.7% instead of 12.5% β Overpay 16.2%!
β Error 2: Not providing battery compliance docs (UN38.3)
π Consequence: Shipment detained, destroyed, or returned β Logistics failure!
β Error 3: Using vague description "Lighting Equipment"
π Consequence: Customs may classify under highest duty rate or demand detailed inspection β Delays
β Correct Approach:
"Portable LED Flashlight, Battery Powered, IP67 Waterproof, Aluminum Body, Model XYZ, FCC Certified"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Maximize Profit!
π― Remember the Golden Rule:
πΉ "Portable = 8513 (12.5% or 3.5%) | Fixed = 9405 (28.7%)"
πΉ "Battery Powered = 8513 | AC Plug = 9405"
πΉ "Flashlight = 8513.10.20 | Other Portable = 8513.10.40"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is a unique portable lamp (not a standard flashlight), try to qualify for 8513.10.40.00 to save 9% in tariffs. Ensure your product description and design specs support this classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify battery compliance (UN38.3)
π¦ Prepare precise product description
π Choose correct HS Code: 8513.10.20.00 (Flashlight) or 8513.10.40.00 (Other)
π Avoid the 28.7% Trap by Misclassification!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Saved is Pure 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.