Slightly OT: Harmonized system codes (HS codes)

[dingo]

To those of you that handle international shipping and have to deal with HS codes.. what would the HS code be for an A/D/A converter? Or even better would be a list of codes for common recording equipment, or a link thereto, for future reference. I've searched the code directory and so far have not found any category that fits.

[Sui_City]

This depends on where you are based.

Different countries classify things differently, even though there is meant to be a unified system. You need to dig around and if you are planning on importing or exporting something, try and find a category that works for you. Often, certain items in pro-audio are not specified in a category, and as such can fall into a number of categories.

This can all get very complex. And it is good to know a customs expert.

[dingo]

Thanks for the info. I'm in the US, btw.

Re-reading the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (2007) (Rev. 2), about the best I can figure is that a converter would belong somewhere in chapter 85, the closest I've found being 8517.62.00.50 (Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus/ Other) or 8517.69.00.00 (Other apparatus for transmission or reception of voice, images or other data, including apparatus for communication in a wired or wireless network [such as a local or wide area network]/ Other). They seem to fit somewhat, but perhaps there is a more appropriate category?

What are the consequences of assigning a a code that isn't exactly correct, or not the best choice? Customs delays, fees?

[Sui_City]

Originally Posted by dingo

Thanks for the info. I'm in the US, btw.

Re-reading the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (2007) (Rev. 2), about the best I can figure is that a converter would belong somewhere in chapter 85, the closest I've found being 8517.62.00.50 (Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus/ Other) or 8517.69.00.00 (Other apparatus for transmission or reception of voice, images or other data, including apparatus for communication in a wired or wireless network [such as a local or wide area network]/ Other). They seem to fit somewhat, but perhaps there is a more appropriate category?

What are the consequences of assigning a a code that isn't exactly correct, or not the best choice? Customs delays, fees?

Customs delays, fines and penalties. General government red tape.

[dingo]

Thanks again for the info, Sui_City.

Any US dealers lurking who ship internationally and would be willing to lend me a code?

[Sui_City]

Dingo

Are you wanting to ship out of the USA or into it?

[dingo]

Shipping out of the US, non-commercial.

It doesn't appear that the USPS actually requires an hs-code for outbound non-commercial shipments. Seems like Fedex does, though, at least using their online shipping system.

Perhaps I'm looking for cheerios in the feminine hygiene aisle?

[Sui_City]

check your pm.

[tonio]

For export its a schedule B number, for import its a harmonized tarrif.

For export you won't get fined or anything, its for statictical reasons on levying
tarrifs for trade etc etc.

For imports you need the correct tarrif, but couriers will just use anything (whether its right or wrong) just to get it through. A customs broker will try to get the correc t tariff no, but will question the consignee first. For non commercial they should be looking for the lowest tax/duty regimen no which applies.

T

[dingo]

Thanks for the info, tonio. You have me wondering, though, why Fedex would be asking for a harmonized tariff number when I'm claiming to be the shipper/exporter. But it's good to hear the process isn't as rigid or demanding as it reads.