Trunk Switch
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8536509065 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8536509055 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8537109170 | 37.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8537108000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8708295160 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8708998180 | 12.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Trunk Switch (Automotive Electrical Component)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown | Professional Strategy for Automotive Parts
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What is a "Trunk Switch"?
In the automotive industry, a "Trunk Switch" (also known as a Tailgate Release Switch, Liftgate Opener, or Boot Release Button) is an electrical component used to remotely open the rear door (trunk/hatch) of a vehicle.
Key Distinction: To classify this correctly, we must determine if it is a standalone electrical switch or a part of the trunk body assembly.
- Scenario A: Standalone Electrical Component
If the item is a simple switch mechanism (plastic housing, electrical contacts, wiring connector) designed to be installed into the vehicle, it is classified under Chapter 85 (Electrical Machinery and Equipment). Specifically, it falls under heading 8536 (Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits...). - Scenario B: Structural Part of the Body
If the switch is permanently integrated into a complex body panel assembly (e.g., a pre-assembled trunk lid with hinges, locks, and switches already mounted), it might be considered a part of the body (Heading 8708). However, for standalone switches sold as spare parts or components, 8536 is the standard classification.
β οΈ Critical Clarification:
The term "Trunk Switch" almost always refers to the electrical switch itself. If you are importing the entire trunk lid assembly, do NOT use 8536. Use 8708. This guide assumes you are importing the electrical switch component.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
Below are the most relevant HS Codes from the provided dataset for Trunk Switches. Note that the provided data does not contain a specific "Automotive Switch" code, so we must use the general electrical switch codes (8536) or, if it's part of a control panel, 8537.
| HS Code | Product Description | Relevance to Trunk Switch |
|---|---|---|
| 8536.50.90.65 | Electrical apparatus for switching... other switches... other | β Best Fit for standard electrical trunk release switches. |
| 8536.50.90.55 | Other switches... Other... Limit | β οΈ Possible alternative if specific "Limit" function is emphasized, but 8536.50.90.65 is broader for general switches. |
| 8537.10.91.70 | Boards/panels equipped with apparatus of 8535/8536... voltage β€ 1,000 V | β Incorrect unless the switch is part of a larger control board/panel. |
| 8537.10.80.00 | Touch-sensitive data input devices without display | β Incorrect unless it's a high-tech touchpad interface, which is rare for standard trunk switches. |
| 8708.29.51.60 | Parts of bodies (including cabs)... steel, aluminum, copper products | β Incorrect for the switch itself. Only applicable if the switch is a structural body part (unlikely). |
| 8708.99.81.80 | Other parts and accessories of motor vehicles | β οΈ Last Resort if customs rejects 8536. Usually for non-electrical mechanical parts. |
π Recommendation:
8536.50.90.65 is the most accurate classification for a standalone electrical trunk switch. It falls under "Other switches" for voltage β€ 1,000 V.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current rates based on provided data
π― 1. 8536.50.90.65 β Other Switches (Most Likely for Trunk Switch)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Section 301 tariffs generally apply regardless of value for Chinese goods) |
| Legal Basis | Based on provided data: "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 25.0%" |
π Explanation:
- The base tariff for electrical switches is 0%.
- However, due to Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, an additional 25% is applied.
- Total Cost Impact: 25% of the product value is added as duty.
π― 2. 8536.50.90.55 β Other Switches (Limit)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Notes | Same as above. If your switch is a "limit switch" type, this code may apply. |
π― 3. 8537.10.91.70 β Control Panels/Boards (If Integrated)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 2.7% |
| Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 27.7% |
| Note | Only use if the switch is part of a control panel or concentration unit. For a standalone switch, this is over-classified and results in higher taxes. |
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice
β 1. Preparation Checklist
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail: Voltage (β€ 1,000 V), Type (Switch), Function (Trunk Release), Material. |
| Circuit Diagram / Schematic | βοΈ | Proves it is an electrical switch, not a mechanical body part. |
| Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the switch, connector, and any labeling (model number, voltage rating). |
| Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Electrical Switch for Automotive Trunk Release, HS Code 8536.50.90.65". |
| Packing List | βοΈ | Include quantities and weights. |
| Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To confirm Chinese origin for tariff calculation. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Rules)
π₯ Golden Rule: "Define it as Electrical, Not Mechanical!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standalone Trunk Switch | HS 8536.50.90.65 "Electrical Switch" |
HS 8708.99.81.80 "Auto Part" |
Risk of reclassification, delay, or penalty. |
| Switch integrated in Control Board | HS 8537.10.91.70 "Control Panel" |
HS 8536.50.90.65 "Switch" |
May underpay tax if panel is complex; use 8537. |
| Trunk Lid Assembly (with switch) | HS 8708.29.51.60 "Part of Body" |
HS 8536.50.90.65 | Major misclassification; high penalty risk. |
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Bulk Orders | Provide OEM contract and part number cross-reference to prove automotive use. |
| Aftermarket Retail Units | Include user manual showing installation as an electrical switch. |
| Smart/Touch Trunk Openers | If it includes a touchscreen interface (rare for trunk), consider 8537.10.80.00 (Touch-sensitive input device). |
| Mixed Shipments | If shipping switches with other auto parts, declare separately. Do not lump under 8708 unless they are truly integral parts of the body. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8536.50.90.65 | 25.0% | Subject to Section 301 additional duty. |
| π¨π³ China | 8536.50.90.65 | 0% (Import Duty) | Check for VAT (13%) if importing into China. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8536.50.90 | ~3.0% | No major additional tariffs like US. |
| π²π½ Mexico | 8536.50.90 | 0% (under USMCA if qualified) | Check rules of origin. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8536.50.90 | 0% | Free trade agreement may apply. |
π Conclusion:
The US is the most costly market due to the 25% additional tariff. For other markets, tariffs are minimal or zero.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying a standalone switch as 8708 (Auto Parts).
π Consequence: While 8708 may have similar tariffs, it triggers additional automotive-specific regulations and inspections. 8536 is cleaner and more accurate for electrical components.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the Voltage Rating.
π Consequence: If the switch is for > 1,000 V, it falls under different subheadings. Ensure the invoice states "Voltage β€ 1,000 V" to qualify for 8536.50.
β Mistake 3: Claiming De Minimis Exemption.
π Consequence: Section 301 tariffs (25%) do not apply to de minimis (under $800). However, for business-to-business shipments, this is irrelevant. For B2C, check current USCBP rules on Section 301 applicability.
β Mistake 4: Mislabeling as "Touch Screen" for a simple button.
π Consequence: Using 8537.10.80.00 incorrectly. If it's a simple press button, it's 8536. If it's a capacitive touch panel, use 8537.10.80.00.
π― VII. Final Recommendation
π― For a Standard Trunk Switch:
- HS Code: 8536.50.90.65
- Description: "Electrical Switch for Trunk Release, Voltage β€ 1,000 V"
- Total Tariff: 25.0% (0% Base + 25% Additional)
π― For a Smart/Touch Trunk Interface:
- HS Code: 8537.10.80.00
- Description: "Touch-sensitive data input device for automotive use"
- Total Tariff: 25.0%
π Pro Tip:
Always include a technical data sheet with your customs declaration. Highlight "Electrical Switch" and "Voltage: < 1,000 V" to avoid classification disputes.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify the switch type (mechanical press vs. touch sensor).
π Prepare the commercial invoice with precise description.
π Calculate landed cost including 25% tariff for US imports.
β¨ Accurate Classification Saves Money!
πΌ Don't let a 2% classification error cost you 25% in tariffs!
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.