walkman
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8519813010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8519812500 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ Walkman (Portable Audio Players)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Walkman"?
The term "Walkman" generally refers to portable audio playback devices. In the context of international trade and customs classification, the term itself is a brand name or generic descriptor, not a precise customs classification term. The correct HS Code depends entirely on the technology used to play the audio (Optical, Magnetic, or Semiconductor/Solid State).
For the purposes of this guide, we focus on the two most common technological forms found in the provided data: 1. Optical Disc Players: Devices that play CDs, DVDs, or Blu-rays. 2. Cassette Tape Players: Devices that play audio cassettes (magnetic tape).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the device plays CDs/Blu-rays β It is classified under Optical Disc Players.
- If the device plays Cassette Tapes β It is classified under Cassette Tape Players.
- Note: Modern digital MP3 players (Solid State) fall under different headings (e.g., 8519.81.91) which are not included in the specific provided. This guide strictly adheres to the constraints.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Media Type |
|---|---|---|---|
8519.81.30.10 |
Optical disc (including compact disc) players | CD players, portable DVD players, car audio CD units | β Optical |
8519.81.25.00 |
Cassette-type tape players: Other | Portable cassette players, boomboxes with cassette decks | β Magnetic (Tape) |
π Critical Reminder:
- Do not classify modern MP3/MP4 players (using flash memory) under these codes. They are typically classified under8519.81.91or similar semiconductor media headings.
- If your device can play both CDs and Cassettes, the primary function usually determines the classification, or it may be classified as a "multifunctional player," but for strict separation based on , we treat them distinctly.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Current 2025/2026 Trade Period
π― 1. 8519.81.30.10 ββ Optical Disc Players (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable for most direct imports from China under Section 301 |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:8519.81.30.10 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Explanation:
- Although the base tariff for optical disc players is nominally 0%, the 25% Section 301 tariff applies to goods originating from China.
- This is a very high effective rate for consumer electronics.
- Importers must budget for this 25% cost on top of shipping and insurance.
π― 2. 8519.81.25.00 ββ Cassette-Type Tape Players (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Applicable (if value < $800, subject to current CBP rules) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:8519.81.25.00 β No Section 301 Footnote |
π Explanation:
- This is a rare tariff advantage. Cassette players are classified under "Other" apparatus, and they are exempt from the 25% Section 301 tariff.
- The total tax burden is 0% for Chinese-origin goods.
- This makes cassette players significantly cheaper to import than CD players from a tariff perspective.
π οΈ IV. Practical Clearance Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Clearly state media type (e.g., "Plays Audio CDs Only" vs. "Plays Cassettes Only"). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the disc tray or cassette compartment. If it has only a CD slot, use HS 8519.81.30.10. If it has only a cassette deck, use 8519.81.25.00. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe the item accurately. Avoid vague terms like "Music Player." Use "Portable CD Player" or "Cassette Tape Player." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail items to ensure no mixed lots are declared incorrectly. |
| β Declaration Statement | βοΈ | Explicitly state: "This device is for sound reproduction only. It does not contain recording facilities." (Important for classification under 8519.81). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Optical Pays 25, Cassette Pays 0! Define the Media First!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Tariff Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Portable CD Player (No cassette slot) | 8519.81.30.10 |
25% (High Cost) |
| Portable Cassette Player (No CD slot) | 8519.81.25.00 |
0% (Low Cost) |
| Hybrid Player (CD + Cassette) | Consult Customs | Risk of classification dispute. May be classified under the principal function. Best to declare separately if possible. |
| MP3 Player (USB/Flash) | Not in | β Do not use above codes. Use 8519.81.91 (Check current rates). |
β 3. Special Situation Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Retro" Walkman Marketing | Even if marketed as "Vintage Style," if it plays CDs, it is 8519.81.30.10. If it plays Cassettes, it is 8519.81.25.00. The marketing name does not change the tariff. |
| Bundle Sales | If selling a "CD Player + Earphones," declare the CD Player as the primary good. Earphones are accessories. Do not split HS codes for a single transaction unless invoiced separately. |
| Multi-Format Players | If a device plays both CDs and Cassettes, US Customs may require classification based on the "principal function." If unclear, consult a customs broker. However, for maximum tariff savings, manufacturers often design separate SKUs. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8519.81.30.10 (CD) |
25% | High tariff due to Section 301. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 8519.81.25.00 (Cassette) |
0% | Tariff Advantage! |
| π¨π³ China | 8519.81.30.10 |
~0-5% | Check local import taxes. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8519.81 (General) |
~0-6% | EU tariffs on audio players are generally lower than US Section 301 rates. |
π Conclusion:
- For US Market, Cassette Players offer a significant tariff advantage (0%) over CD Players (25%).
- This has led to a resurgence in cassette player exports to the US, as the tariff savings make them competitive.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying all "Walkmans" under one generic code.
π Consequence: If you classify a CD player as a Cassette player to save 25% tax, Customs will audit, assess back taxes + penalties, and delay clearance.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the "Sound Reproducing Only" requirement.
π Consequence: If the device can record audio, it may fall under 8519 subheadings for "recording" apparatus, which have different rates. Ensure the device is Playback Only.
β Mistake 3: Using "MP3 Player" description for a CD Player.
π Consequence: Misdeclaration. Customs expects accuracy. If it plays CDs, say "CD Player."
β Correct Practice:
"Portable Audio CD Player, Playback Only, No Recording Function, Model XYZ, Origin China"
β Use HS8519.81.30.10β Expect 25% Tax."Portable Cassette Tape Player, Playback Only, Model ABC, Origin China"
β Use HS8519.81.25.00β Expect 0% Tax.
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "CDs Cost 25%, Cassettes Cost 0%! Know Your Media!"
πΉ "Walkman is a Brand, Not a HS Code! Define the Technology!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is a Digital Media Player (plays MP3/WMA from USB/SD card), do not use the codes above. They are for Physical Media (CD/Tape) only. Digital players are typically 8519.81.91 and have different tariff implications (often subject to 7.5% base + potential 301 tariffs depending on current updates). Always verify the media type first!
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker with clear product photos.
π Specify the Media Type on your Commercial Invoice.
π° Calculate the 25% tariff if shipping CD players, or enjoy the 0% rate for cassette players!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar Saved in Tariffs is Pure Profit!
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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.