HS 851711 Telephone sets, including smartphones and other telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks

Quick Answer: Smartphones and other telephones for cellular or wireless networks imported under HS 851711 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a duty-free rate under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This classification covers a wide range of mobile communication devices, including feature phones and advanced smartphones. While the UK and EU offer duty-free entry, importers into the US should be aware of potential exceptions or specific trade agreements that might influence the duty-free status. According to CustomTariffs data, the US also has a significant ad valorem duty rate of 35% for certain imports under this code, highlighting the importance of verifying the specific tariff treatment based on origin and product details.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517110000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517110000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517110000 Free — ["No."]

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 851711 cover?

This subheading covers telephone sets, including smartphones and other telephones designed for use with cellular networks or other wireless networks, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. Official interpretations from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes devices primarily intended for voice communication and data transmission over wireless infrastructure, such as mobile phones, feature phones, and satellite phones operating on cellular principles.

What falls outside HS 851711?

The following products are excluded from HS 851711: fixed-line telephones (classified under 8517.12), fax machines (8517.20), modems and other data transmission apparatus (8517.62), and smartwatches or wearable devices that are primarily communication devices but lack the primary functionality of a standalone telephone (often classified under 8517.62 or 8523 if primarily data storage). Devices that are solely for receiving wireless signals without the capability of transmitting are also excluded.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851711?

A common error is misclassifying devices that have secondary communication functions but are not primarily telephones. For instance, a tablet with cellular capability might be incorrectly entered under 8517.11 when its primary function is data processing and display, potentially falling under 8471.30. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods, which prioritizes the essential character, is crucial to avoid these mistakes.

How should importers classify products under HS 851711?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851711 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review explanatory notes from the WCO. Confirming that the device is designed for cellular or wireless network communication and has voice calling as a primary function is essential.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851711?

A specific model of smartphone, the "GlobalPhone X," with a declared customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $0.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 0% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8517.12.9000, which is a sub-classification often used for smartphones, demonstrating that many common mobile phones currently have no import duty in the US.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851711?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851711, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free duty rates for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating in certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's regulations.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 851714 HS 851712 HS 851713 HS 851761 HS 851771 HS 851762

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 851711 (smartphones and other mobile phones)?

Import duty rates for HS code 851711 vary significantly by country and trade agreements. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0.00%. In the EU, under the TARIC system, many smartphones may enter duty-free (0.00%), but specific models or features could be subject to different rates. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for many items under this code. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.

How is the import duty for HS code 851711 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS 851711 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit), or a combination. For instance, if a country applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty on smartphones and you import 100 smartphones valued at $500 each, the total value is $50,000. The duty would be 3.5% of $50,000, which equals $1,750. If there were also a specific duty, such as $5 per unit, the total duty would be ($1,750) + (100 units * $5/unit) = $1,750 + $500 = $2,250. Always verify the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) from the importing country's tariff schedule.

What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 851711?

HS code 851711 covers 'Telephone sets, including smartphones and other telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks.' The primary classification criteria are the device's function and its ability to connect to cellular or other wireless networks for voice and data transmission. This includes devices that can make and receive calls, send and receive messages, and access the internet wirelessly. Devices that are solely for wired networks (like traditional landline phones) or lack wireless network connectivity would typically fall under different HS codes.

What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 851711?

Standard import documentation for HS code 851711 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Additionally, specific countries may require proof of compliance with telecommunications standards (e.g., FCC certification in the US, CE marking in the EU) or safety certifications. Importers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents.

How do trade agreements, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), affect the duty rates for HS code 851711?

Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS code 851711. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), eligible smartphones originating from Canada or Mexico may enter the US duty-free. Similarly, many EU trade agreements grant preferential duty rates, often 0.00%, for mobile phones originating from partner countries. To benefit from these agreements, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the respective FTA and possess the necessary documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to substantiate the claim.