USB Lighter
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8513102000 | 22.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8513902000 | 97.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9613802010 | 21.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9613802090 | 21.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π₯ USB Lighters & Electrical Lighters (The "Spark" Class)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Buying a "Lighter" or a "Tool"?
USB Lighters, Rechargeable Lighters, and Electric Arc Lighters are not just "simple ignition tools." In international trade, they are strictly classified based on their power source and primary function. The key distinction lies in whether they are "Multipurpose" (for grills/fireplaces) or "General Purpose" (personal use).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the device is marketed specifically for charcoal/gas grills or fireplaces (high energy, multipurpose) β 9613.80.20.10
- If the device is a general-purpose personal lighter (lighting cigarettes, candles, etc.) β 9613.80.20.90
- Note: These are NOT flashlights (8513). Even if they have LED indicators, their primary function is ignition, not illumination.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
9613.80.20.10 |
Electrical Multipurpose Lighters (Including those for charcoal/gas grills & fireplaces) |
BBQ Grills, Fireplace Igniters, Outdoor Camping Gear | High-power arc; designed for larger ignition tasks. |
9613.80.20.90 |
Electrical Other Lighters (General purpose personal lighters) |
Smoking accessories, Candle lighting, Pocket use | Standard arc/USB charging; personal use focus. |
8513.10.20.00 |
Flashlights (Portable Electric Lamps) | DO NOT USE (Misclassification Risk) |
Only if the deviceβs primary function is lighting, not ignition. |
8513.90.20.00 |
Parts of Flashlights | DO NOT USE (Misclassification Risk) |
Only if sold as spare parts for flashlights. |
π Important Warning:
- Do not classify USB lighters as8513(Flashlights) just because they use batteries or have an LED. The Primary Function Test dictates classification. If it lights a cigar or grill, itβs a lighter (9613), not a lamp (8513).
- Misclassification can lead to severe penalties, as the tax difference between9613and8513is massive.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Tax Analysis)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current rates apply (Note: Tariff structures are dynamic; verify before shipment)
π― 1. 9613.80.20.10 & 9613.80.20.90 ββ Electrical Lighters
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 Duty |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Under $800, eligible for Section 321 exemption, though 0% base rate makes this moot for duty, but still relevant for administrative clearance) |
π Explanation:
- Both9613.80.20.10(Multipurpose) and9613.80.20.90(Other) are classified under HS 9613, which is currently exempt from Section 301 tariffs and IEEPA additional tariffs.
- This makes USB/Electrical lighters one of the most tax-efficient categories for Chinese exporters to the US.
- Total Duty: 0%. This is a significant advantage compared to electronics or steel/aluminum products.
β 2. 8513.10.20.00 & 8513.90.20.00 ββ Flashlights & Parts (Misclassification Risk)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 12.5% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surcharge | N/A (Unless specific material triggers steel/aluminum tariffs, but typically 301 doesn't apply to 8513) |
Wait, Look at 8513.90.20.00 (Parts) |
Total Tax: 87.5% |
β οΈ CRITICAL WARNING:
- If you mistakenly classify a USB lighter as a "Flashlight" (8513), you face:
- Base Tax: 12.5%
- If classified as Parts (8513.90.20.00): 87.5% Total Tax!
- Base: 12.5%
- Additional (Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surcharge): 50%
- Other Add-ons: 25%
- Why? Some flashlights contain steel/aluminum components. If the customs officer determines your "USB Lighter" is actually a "Lighting Device" with metallic parts, the penalty is astronomical.π Key Takeaway:
- Correct Classification (9613): 0% Tax
- Incorrect Classification (8513): 12.5% to 87.5% Tax
- Do NOT confuse "Lighter" with "Flashlight".
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Electrical Lighter," "Arc Ignition," "USB Rechargeable," NOT "LED Lamp" or "Flashlight." |
| β Technical Diagram | βοΈ | Show the arc mechanism, battery compartment, and USB input. Prove it is for ignition. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the device in use (lighting a candle/grill). Avoid images that look like a flashlight beam. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe as: "USB Electric Arc Lighter for Cigarettes/Grills" DO NOT USE: "LED Flashlight," "Portable Lamp," "Lighting Device." |
| β HS Code Pre-ruling (Optional but Recommended) | βοΈ | Given the 0% vs 87.5% risk, a pre-ruling from CBP is wise for large shipments. |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm if any parts are steel/aluminum/copper to avoid accidental surcharges if misclassified. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Function is Ignition, Not Illumination! 9613 is Zero, 8513 is Zero-Pain!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Error If... |
|---|---|---|
| USB Arc Lighter (Personal Use) | 9613.80.20.90 |
Calling it a "Light" β 12.5%+ |
| USB Arc Lighter (Grill/Fireplace) | 9613.80.20.10 |
Calling it a "Flashlight" β 12.5%+ |
| Lighter Parts (e.g., replacement arc tips) | 9613.90 (Not in Data, but logical) |
Classifying as 8513.90 β 87.5% |
| Flashlight (True Illumination Device) | 8513.10.20.00 |
N/A (Correct) |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Flashlight-Lighter" Hybrid | If the device primarily emits light but can also produce an arc, CBP may classify it as 8513 (Flashlight). Recommendation: Design clearly as a lighter, with minimal lighting features. |
| LED Indicator Only | If the USB lighter has an LED to show battery level, it is still a lighter (9613). The LED is auxiliary. Do not let customs argue it's a flashlight. |
| Steel/Aluminum Body | Even if the lighter is made of aluminum, as long as itβs correctly classified as 9613, the 0% tax applies. The 50% surcharge for steel/aluminum only applies to specific headings (like 8513.90.20.00 in this data). Do not panic about material. |
| Shipping by Air | USB lighters contain lithium batteries. Ensure they comply with IATA DGR regulations. Separate batteries if required. This is a safety issue, not a tariff one. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9613.80.20.10 / .90 |
0.0% | FCC (if RF interference possible), UL (optional) | Best market due to 0% duty. |
| π¨π³ China | 9613.80 |
0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable) | Domestic duty varies. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9613.80 |
0% (if under β¬150 de minimis, otherwise varies) | CE, RoHS | High safety standards for battery devices. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9613.80 |
0% - 5% | UKCA, RoHS | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 9613.80 |
0% (Most FTA partners) | IC (Industry Canada) | Check CUSMA eligibility. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is extremely favorable for USB/Electrical Lighters due to the 0% total tariff rate.
- The biggest risk is misclassification. Do not let the word "LED" or "USB" trick you into using8513. Stick to9613.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons from Tears)
β Error 1: Using "LED Flashlight" in the commercial invoice description for a USB Lighter.
π Consequence: Customs flags it as 8513. Tax jumps to 12.5% - 87.5%.
β
Fix: Use "Electric Arc Lighter, USB Rechargeable."
β Error 2: Claiming the product is a "Camping Lantern" because it has a light.
π Consequence: If the primary function is lighting, itβs a lantern (8513). If you claim itβs a lighter but itβs primarily a lantern, youβre misrepresenting the product.
β
Fix: If itβs 70% light, 30% arc, classify as 8513. If itβs 70% arc, 30% light, classify as 9613.
β Error 3: Ignoring Lithium Battery Regulations.
π Consequence: Shipment rejected at US ports for safety violations, even if duty is 0%.
β
Fix: Ensure proper MSDS, UN38.3 testing, and air freight compliance.
β Error 4: Confusing "Multipurpose" vs. "Other".
π Consequence: Minor risk, but 9613.80.20.10 is for grills/fireplaces. If you market it for home use only, 9613.80.20.90 is safer. Both are 0%, but consistency matters.
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Maximized Profit!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Arc for Ignition = 9613 = 0% Duty!"
πΉ "LED for Light = 8513 = 12.5%+ Duty!"
πΉ "One Word Wrong = 87.5% Penalty!"
π Pro Tip:
- For large-volume imports, consider applying for a CBP Binding Ruling to confirm the 0% duty status for your specific model.
- Ensure your marketing materials clearly show the device being used to light a cigar, cigarette, or grill, not as a source of ambient light. This supports the 9613 classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Double-check your Invoice Description: "USB Electric Lighter" β | "USB Flashlight" β
π Ship with Confidence: With 0% duty, your profit margin is protected.
β¨ Stay Compliant: Avoid the 87.5% trap.
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Duty Bill Should Be $0, Not $87.50!
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.