electric ear pick
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9018908000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9018909000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9018901000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9021904040 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𦻠Electric Ear Pick (Medical/Cosmetic Device)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is an "Electric Ear Pick"?
The Electric Ear Pick (also known as an Electric Ear Cleaner or Audio Suction Probe) is a handheld device used for earwax removal and auditory canal cleaning. In international trade, its classification hinges on its primary function and technical nature.
It falls under Chapter 90: Optical, Photographic, Cinematographic, Measuring, Checking, Precision, Medical or Surgical Instruments and Apparatus.
Key Distinctions for Classification: 1. Medical/Surgical Purpose: If marketed specifically for clinical use, diagnostic assistance, or therapeutic treatment of ear conditions β It may fall under 9018 (Medical Instruments). 2. Cosmetic/General Household Use: If marketed strictly for personal hygiene/cosmetic purposes without medical claims β It might still fall under 9018 depending on the specific mechanism, or potentially other chapters if deemed a general appliance (but 9018 is dominant for "pick-like" probes in this context according to the provided data).
β οΈ Critical Classification Point:
Based on the provided data, the product is categorized under 9018.90.80.00 as an "Other Electric ear pick". This implies it is viewed as a specialized instrument within the broader category of medical/surgical instruments, even if used for cosmetic purposes, due to its specific probe-based mechanism.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
9018.90.80.00 |
Other Electric ear picks | Personal hygiene, cosmetic ear cleaning devices with electric motor/vibration | β Electric, Specific "Ear Pick" function |
9018.90.10.00 |
Mirrors and reflectors (Optical instruments) | Ear mirrors (otoscopes) for visual examination | β Optical, Non-electric (usually) |
9018.90.90.00 |
Other instruments not elsewhere specified | Unusual medical devices not covered by other 9018 subheadings | β General catch-all |
9021.90.40.40 |
Parts and accessories for hearing aids | Spare parts for hearing aids | β Not applicable (unless it's a replacement part) |
π Focus on
9018.90.80.00:
The provided data explicitly lists "Other Electric ear picks" under this code. This is the most accurate classification for an electric device designed for ear cleaning, distinguishing it from manual picks or optical mirrors.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharge & Policy Additions)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From 2025-11-10 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9018.90.80.00 ββ Other Electric Ear Picks
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | 0.0% (No specific 301 footnote applied to this specific sub-code in the provided data) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0.0% (No additional IEEPA surcharge indicated for this code in the provided data) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β
Yes (Since total tax is 0%, it easily qualifies for de minimis treatment if applicable under current regulations, though the data shows 0.0% total tax) |
| Legal Basis Path | 9018.90.80.00 β Tax Detail: "Base Tariff: 0.0%, Additional Tariff: 0.0%" |
π Explanation:
- Zero Duty Advantage: Unlike many electronics or medical devices, electric ear picks under HS Code9018.90.80.00currently face 0% total tariff.
- No Surcharge: The provided data indicates no 25% USITC surcharge or 10% IEEPA surcharge applies to this specific subheading.
- Cost Efficiency: This makes electric ear picks a highly cost-effective product for import into the US from China, with no tariff burden.β οΈ Contrast with
9018.90.90.00:
For other unspecified medical instruments (9018.90.90.00), the tax information is listed as "Error" or "Failed to retrieve". This indicates a lack of clear tariff data, which poses a high risk of classification disputes. Always aim for9018.90.80.00if your product is strictly an "electric ear pick".
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Pitfalls Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Electric Ear Pick," voltage, frequency, power, and material of the probe. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing the electric motor, probe, and any packaging claims. |
| β Declaration of Intended Use | βοΈ | State if it is for "cosmetic/household use" or "medical use." This supports classification under 9018. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly use the term "Electric Ear Pick" or "Electric Ear Cleaner" to match HS Code 9018.90.80.00. |
| β Packaging List | βοΈ | Show contents: Device, charging cable, replacement probes. |
| β FDA Registration (If Applicable) | β οΈ Check | If marketed as a medical device, ensure FDA registration. For cosmetic/household use, FDA may not apply, but compliance with safety standards (UL/ETL) is crucial. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Be Specific, Avoid General Terms, Match the Code!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Ear Cleaner | "Electric Ear Pick, Model XYZ, for household earwax removal" | "Ear Cleaner" (Too vague) |
| Medical Ear Probe | "Medical Electric Ear Instrument for Auditory Canal Cleaning" | "Medical Part" (Too broad) |
| Hearing Aid Parts | "Accessory for Hearing Aid" | "Ear Pick" (Wrong category) |
| Ear Mirror | "Otoscopic Mirror, Optical" | "Electric Ear Pick" (Wrong mechanism) |
π Important:
- Do NOT declare as "Hearing Aid Accessory" (9021.90.40.40) unless it is a direct replacement part for a hearing aid.
- Do NOT declare as "Optical Mirror" (9018.90.10.00) if it is electric and used for cleaning, not just viewing.
- Stick to9018.90.80.00for clarity and to benefit from the 0% tariff.
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Dual-Use (Medical + Cosmetic) | Declare as "Electric Ear Pick" under 9018.90.80.00. Provide documents showing it is for general hygiene/cleaning to avoid unnecessary medical device scrutiny. |
| With Heating/Vibration Functions | Still falls under 9018.90.80.00 as "Other Electric." Clearly describe these functions in the spec sheet. |
| Replacement Probes Only | If selling only the replaceable tips, check if they are "parts" of the device. If considered parts, they may also fall under 9018.90. However, if they are generic, they might be classified elsewhere. Best to bundle with the main device for clearance simplicity. |
π V. Global Main Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9018.90.80.00 |
0.0% | UL/ETL (Safety) | Zero Duty! No surcharge. |
| π¨π³ China | 9018.90.80.00 |
0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable) | Low tariff. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9018.90.80.00 |
0% - 2% | CE + RoHS | Low tariff, strict safety. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 9018.90.80.00 |
0% - 5% | PSE + JCM | Varies by specific type. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most favorable market for this product due to the 0% total tariff.
- Ensure your declaration is precise to avoid misclassification into9018.90.90.00(unclear tax) or other chapters with higher duties.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring as "Hearing Aid Accessory" (9021.90.40.40)
π Consequence: Wrong classification. Even if tax is 0%, it creates confusion and potential FDA regulatory issues if not a genuine hearing aid part.
β Mistake 2: Declaring as "Optical Instrument" (9018.90.10.00)
π Consequence: Incorrect. If the device is electric and used for cleaning, not just viewing, it does not fit "Mirrors and Reflectors." Risk of penalty.
β Mistake 3: Using vague terms like "Ear Cleaning Device" without specifying "Electric"
π Consequence: Customs may not recognize it as 9018.90.80.00 and might classify it under a general basket with higher or uncertain tariffs.
β Correct Practice:
"Electric Ear Pick, Model XYZ, 110V, 60Hz, Plastic and Stainless Steel Probe, for Household Earwax Removal, FCC Certified"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Time-Saving, Cost-Efficient!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Electric Ear Pick goes to 9018.90.80.00 β Zero Duty!"
πΉ "Be Specific, Avoid General Terms, Stay at 0% Tax!"
πΉ "Don't mix with Hearing Aid Parts or Optical Mirrors!"
π Pro Tip:
If your electric ear pick has additional medical claims (e.g., "treats ear infections"), ensure you comply with FDA regulations for medical devices, even if the tariff remains 0%. The tariff benefit does not exempt you from health and safety regulations.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your customs broker + Provide clear product photos + Use the exact term "Electric Ear Pick" in commercial invoices.
π Let your Electric Ear Picks pass through customs smoothly, efficiently, and tax-free!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar 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.