Receptacle
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8536698000 | 37.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8536694010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926904590 | 38.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8543706000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
β‘ Receptacles (Electrical Sockets & Plugs)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition: What Exactly Is a "Receptacle"?
In international trade, a "Receptacle" generally refers to an electrical connector device designed to receive a plug, allowing electricity to flow into appliances or equipment. However, customs classification depends heavily on material composition, functionality, and integration.
Two Main Categories: 1. Plastic Housings/Accessories: If the item is purely a plastic shell, adapter body, or non-functional part. 2. Electrical Connecting Devices: If the item functions as a switch, connector, or adapter for electrical circuits (voltage/current transmission).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If it is only a plastic case or adapter housing without internal conductive pathways for switching/connecting circuits β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics). - If it connects circuits, handles current, or acts as an adapter for power transfer β Classified under Chapter 85 (Electrical Machinery).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Alignment)
Based on the provided data, here are the 5 most likely HS Codes for "Receptacles," ranging from plastic accessories to fully functional electrical devices.
| HS Code | Summary / Classification Logic | Total Tax Rate | Tax Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8536.69.40.10 | Electrical Connection Device: Matches the functional description of a socket as an electrical connection device. | 35.0% | Base: 0.0% Section 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8543.70.60.00 | Power Adapter/Converter: Matches the function of an adapter for connecting and converting electrical power. | 35.0% | Base: 0.0% Section 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8536.69.80.00 | General Socket Category: Direct match with "Receptacle" in the electrical switch/socket category. | 37.7% | Base: 2.7% Section 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 3926.90.99.89 | Other Plastic Products: Inferred as a plastic component/accessory rather than a functional electrical device. | 22.8% | Base: 5.3% Section 301: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
| 3926.90.45.90 | Other Plastic Products: Based on plastic material inference, classified as a non-electrical plastic part. | 38.5% | Base: 3.5% Section 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
π Key Insight:
- Electrical Function Wins: If the product has metal contacts and is designed to conduct electricity, Chapter 85 is usually correct, despite the plastic shell. - Material-Based Classification: If the product is a plastic cover, a decorative plug cover, or a non-conductive adapter body, Chapter 39 applies. - Risk Alert: Misclassifying a functional electrical socket as a "plastic part" (3926.90) can lead to significant tariff discrepancies and customs penalties.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Market: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 onwards
π― 1. 8536.69.40.10 & 8543.70.60.00 ββ Electrical Connectors & Adapters (Low Base Tax)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% (Targeting China/Hong Kong products, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High value items) |
| Legal Basis | Section 301 β Section 122 β USITC:8536.69.40.10 / 8543.70.60.00 |
π Explanation:
- These categories have a 0% base duty, making them attractive compared to other electrical goods. - However, the 35% total tax (25% + 10%) is still significant. - Note:8543.70.60.00is specifically for devices that "convert" or "adapt" power, so power adapters/converters fit best here.
π― 2. 8536.69.80.00 ββ General Electrical Sockets/Receptacles
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.7% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 37.7% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 37.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis | Section 301 β Section 122 β USITC:8536.69.80.00 |
π Explanation:
- This is the "catch-all" for electrical switches, plugs, and sockets not specified elsewhere. - Higher base duty (2.7%) makes it slightly more expensive than8536.69.40.10.
π― 3. 3926.90.99.89 & 3926.90.45.90 ββ Plastic Parts/Accessories (Material-Based)
| HS Code | Base Duty | Section 301 | Section 122 | Total Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926.90.99.89 | 5.3% | 7.5% | 10.0% | 22.8% |
| 3926.90.45.90 | 3.5% | 25.0% | 10.0% | 38.5% |
β οΈ Warning:
-3926.90.99.89offers the lowest total tax (22.8%) but only if the item is truly a non-functional plastic part. -3926.90.45.90has a high total tax (38.5%) due to the 25% Section 301 surcharge, making it less favorable than the electrical categories. - Risk: Declaring a functional socket as a "plastic part" to save tax is customs fraud. Ensure the product lacks electrical conductivity.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must detail voltage, amperage, plug type, and material composition. |
| β Circuit Diagram/Structure | βοΈ | Crucial to prove if internal metal contacts exist (determines Ch. 85 vs. Ch. 39). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show connectors, terminals, and any markings. |
| β Safety Certifications | βοΈ | UL, ETL, CE, or FCC certificates. Mandatory for Ch. 85 items. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Electrical Receptacle" or "Plastic Socket Cover" based on classification. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List items accurately; avoid vague terms like "Gadgets." |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Function Over Material: If it conducts, itβs Chapter 85!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk of Wrong Code |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Wall Socket/Plug Adapter | 8536.69.40.10 or 8536.69.80.00 |
Misclassifying as plastic β Penalty + Back Taxes |
| Power Adapter/Converter | 8543.70.60.00 |
Misclassifying as plastic β High Risk |
| Plastic Plug Cover (No Contacts) | 3926.90.99.89 |
Declaring as electrical β Unnecessary Tax |
| Decorative Plastic Socket Plate | 3926.90.45.90 or 3926.90.99.89 |
Declaring as electrical β Complex Audit |
β 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Smart Sockets (Wi-Fi Enabled) | Likely 8536.69.40.10 or 8543.70.60.00. Emphasize the electrical switching function, not just the plastic. |
| International Travel Adapters | Use 8543.70.60.00 (Power Conversion/Adapter). Ensure itβs not just a passive plastic shifter. |
| Industrial Socket Outlets | Use 8536.69.80.00 or 8536.69.40.10 depending on current rating. |
| Pure Plastic Housing Only | Use 3926.90.99.89. Ensure no metal parts are included in the shipment to justify the lower tax. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Tax (China Origin) | Key Certifications | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8536.69.40.10 |
35.0% | UL, ETL, FCC | High scrutiny on electrical safety. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.99.89 |
22.8% | N/A | Only for non-electrical plastic parts. |
| π¨π³ China | 8536.69.40.10 |
~10% | CCC | Lower tariff base. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8536.69.40.10 |
0% (if CE) | CE, RoHS | No Section 301/122. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8536.69.40.10 |
0% (if UKCA) | UKCA, RoHS | Post-Brexit standards apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex market due to Section 301 and Section 122 surcharges. - Electrical classification (Ch. 85) is safer for functional products, despite higher taxes than some plastic categories, because it reflects true function. - Plastic classification (Ch. 39) is only viable for non-functional, non-conductive items.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying a USB Charging Socket as a "Plastic Part" (3926.90) to save tax.
π Consequence: Customs will reject due to lack of electrical function evidence; back taxes + fines.
β Mistake 2: Using 8536.69.80.00 (37.7%) when 8536.69.40.10 (35.0%) applies.
π Consequence: Overpayment of 2.7% per unit. Optimization Opportunity!
β Mistake 3: Omitting Safety Certifications (UL/ETL) for electrical items.
π Consequence: Goods detained at port; seizure risk if no safety compliance.
β Best Practice:
"Electrical Receptacle, 120V/15A, UL Listed, Plastic Housing with Metal Contacts, Model XYZ"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Conductive? Go Chapter 85. Non-conductive? Go Chapter 39."
πΉ "Check the Base Duty: 0% vs 2.7% can make a difference."
πΉ "Always declare UL/ETL for electrical items in the US."
π Pro Tip:
If your receptacles are power adapters, consider 8543.70.60.00 (35.0%) over 8536.69.80.00 (37.7%) to save 2.7% on every shipment.
For simple sockets, 8536.69.40.10 is the most cost-effective electrical classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker for a Pre-Ruling if your product is a hybrid (e.g., smart socket).
π Ensure all electrical items have UL/ETL marks to avoid US customs delays.
β¨ Accurate Classification Starts with Function!
πΌ Every Percent Counts in Global Trade!
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.