Wireless Receiver
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8526910020 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8527994000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8527991500 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8517690000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8527195025 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π‘ Wireless Receiver: The Ultimate HS Code & Duty Clearance Guide (2026 Edition)
π Global HS Code Reference & Customs Strategy | 2026 Tax Regime Breakdown | High-Stakes Clearance Protocol
π I. Product Definition: What Exactly is a "Wireless Receiver"?
In the complex world of international trade, the term "Wireless Receiver" is a broad umbrella that covers devices ranging from simple radio tuners to sophisticated navigation aids and audio transmission systems. Misclassification is the #1 cause of customs delays and unexpected tax bills for these items.
Core Functional Categories: * Radio Navigation Aids: Devices strictly for receiving signals to assist in aircraft/ship navigation (e.g., GPS, ILS receivers). * Broadcast Receivers: Standard devices for receiving AM/FM/Shortwave radio waves for entertainment or information. * Data/Audio Receivers: Specialized equipment for receiving voice, image, or data streams (often used in industrial, military, or professional audio contexts).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- Navigation Only (No audio output, purely for position/signal) β 8526.91.00.20
- Broadcasting (Listening to radio stations) β 8527.99.40.00 / 8527.99.15.00
- General Data/Audio Transmission β 8517.69.00.00
- Specialized Low-Power Broadcasting β 8527.19.50.25
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Matrix (2026 Official Tax Regime)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8526.91.00.20 | Radio Receiver (Navigation Aid Only) | Aircraft, Marine, Land Navigation Systems | Matches "Navigation Aid" function definition only. |
| 8527.99.40.00 | Radio Receiver (Broadcasting) | Standard AM/FM/Shortwave Radio, Consumer Audio | Typical "Broadcasting" usage. |
| 8527.99.15.00 | Radio Receiver (General) | Standard Wireless Receivers matching exact classification | Fully consistent with "Radio Receiver" category. |
| 8517.69.00.00 | Audio Receiver (Data/Comms) | Voice, Image, or Data transmission systems | Professional/Industrial transmission. |
| 8527.19.50.25 | Audio Receiver (Broadcast/Portable) | Self-powered broadcasting equipment | No external power source required. |
π Expert Insight:
- 8526 covers Navigation only. If the device has any audio output capability for entertainment, it may fall under 8527.
- 8517 is for Communication/Data. If the "receiver" is part of a data network (e.g., 4G/5G modem receiver), this code applies.
- 8527.19.50.25 is a niche category for self-powered devices (e.g., crystal radios or specific low-power broadcast units).
π° III. 2026 Duty Rate Breakdown (US Market Focus)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Destination: United States (US)
β Effective Date: Current Regime (2026 Projection)
π― 1. High-Value Navigation & Broadcast Receivers
Codes: 8526.91.00.20, 8527.99.40.00, 8527.99.15.00, 8517.69.00.00
| Tax Component | Rate | Source of Law |
|---|---|---|
| MFN Base Duty | 0.0% | Standard Most Favored Nation rate |
| Section 301 (Add-on) | +25.0% | "Section 301 Tariffs" on Chinese Tech |
| Section 122 (Reciprocal) | +10.0% | "Section 122 Reciprocal Tariffs" |
| TOTAL DUTY | 35.0% | High Risk / High Cost |
π Explanation:
- These devices are classified as technology-intensive imports.
- The 25% is the standard "Section 301" punitive tariff for US-China trade friction.
- The 10% is the "Section 122" reciprocal tariff imposed in response to trade barriers.
- Result: You pay 35 cents for every $1.00 of CIF value.
- De Minimis Exemption: β NOT APPLICABLE. These items do not qualify for small package exemptions due to the nature of the tariffs.
π― 2. Specialized Low-Power Broadcasting Receiver
Code: 8527.19.50.25
| Tax Component | Rate | Source of Law |
|---|---|---|
| MFN Base Duty | 0.0% | Standard Most Favored Nation rate |
| Section 301 (Add-on) | 0.0% | Exempt from Section 301 (specific subheading) |
| Section 122 (Reciprocal) | +10.0% | "Section 122 Reciprocal Tariffs" applies |
| TOTAL DUTY | 10.0% | Moderate Risk / Cost |
π Explanation:
- This is a specialized exemption for "Broadcasting receiver equipment not requiring external power."
- While the base duty is 0%, the Section 122 Reciprocal Tariff (10%) still applies.
- Crucial Advantage: You save 25% compared to the standard navigation/broadcast codes!
- Requirement: The device must truly not require external power (e.g., solar, battery, or crystal powered) to qualify.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Strategy & Practical Advice
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Datasheet | βοΈ Mandatory | Must explicitly state Power Source (to qualify for 10% duty) or Function (Nav vs. Audio). |
| Function Diagram | βοΈ Mandatory | Proves if the device is a "Navigation Aid" (8526) or "Audio Receiver" (8527/8517). |
| Product Photos | βοΈ Mandatory | Show all ports, labels, and lack of external power inputs (if claiming 10% duty). |
| Bill of Materials (BOM) | βοΈ Recommended | Helps Customs verify if "external power" is truly absent. |
| Origin Certificate | βοΈ Mandatory | Confirms Chinese origin to apply the correct 301/122 rates. |
| FCC ID | βοΈ Recommended | US requires FCC certification for any wireless transmitting/receiving device. |
β 2. Classification Strategy: The "35% vs 10%" Pivot
π₯ Golden Rule: "Check the Power Source to Slash the Tax!"
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard FM Radio (Plug-in) | 8527.99.40.00 |
35% | Standard declaration. No optimization possible. |
| Aircraft Navigation Unit | 8526.91.00.20 |
35% | High precision required. Must match "Nav Aid" definition. |
| Solar-Powered Receiver | 8527.19.50.25 |
10% | OPTIMIZE! Declare strictly as "No External Power." |
| Data Link Receiver | 8517.69.00.00 |
35% | Treated as telecom equipment. |
β οΈ Warning:
- Do NOT claim8527.19.50.25for a device that has a DC input port for charging. Customs will reclassify it and charge 35% + Penalties.
- Do NOT classify a simple radio as a "Navigation Aid" just to try a different code; the functional description must be exact.
β 3. Common Pitfalls & Avoidance
β Error 1: Vague Naming
Input: "Wireless Receiver"
Result: Customs will guess the function β Likely8527.99.40.00(35%).
β Fix: Specify: "Solar-Powered AM/FM Radio Receiver, No AC Input."
β Error 2: Ignoring Section 122
Input: Assuming 0% duty.
Result: Surprise 10% + 25% bill.
β Fix: Always calculate 35% (for most) or 10% (for specific) in your margin.
β Error 3: Power Source Ambiguity
Input: "Battery operated" (but has charging port).
Result: Disqualified from8527.19.50.25.
β Fix: If it has a charging port, it is NOT "No External Power." Stick to8527.99.40.00.
π V. Global Market Snapshot (2026)
| Market | Primary HS Code | Duty Rate (China Origin) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8526.91.00.20 / 8527.99.x |
35% (Most) / 10% (Special) | FCC + 301/122 Compliance |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8527 Series |
6% (Standard) | CE + RoHS |
| π¨π³ China | 8527 Series |
0% - 10% | CCC Certification |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8527 Series |
0% - 5% | PSE Mark |
π Key Takeaway:
The USA is the most aggressive market for "Wireless Receivers," imposing 35% on 90% of standard products. The EU and Asia are significantly cheaper but require strict certification (CE/PSE).
π VI. Conclusion: Smart Classification Saves Money
π― Remember the Strategy:
πΉ "Function First, Power Second."
πΉ Navigation/Broadcast = 35% (Brace yourself).
πΉ Self-Powered/Niche = 10% (The Golden Opportunity).
πΉ Data/Comms = 35% (Standard Telecom).
Action Plan:
1. Audit your product's power source immediately.
2. Verify the functional definition against HS Code 8526 vs 8527.
3. Declare with precision: "Solar-powered," "Audio-only," or "Nav-Aid."
4. Prepare for the 35% duty or re-engineer for the 10% duty path.
π£ Final Warning:
"In the world of wireless receivers, a misclassified HS Code isn't just a paperwork errorβit's a 35% tax on your entire shipment. Precision is your profit margin!"
β¨ Expert Tip: For high-volume shipments, Pre-Apply for a Binding Ruling from US Customs to lock in the 10% or 35% rate before shipping!
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.