HS 851718 Other

Quick Answer: Telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks imported under HS 8517.18 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a 35% ad valorem duty rate under the MFN tariff. This residual classification, "Other," is for mobile phones and similar wireless communication devices not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings of 8517.18. Importers should verify specific product descriptions against the full tariff schedules of their destination countries, as this code captures a broad range of devices. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to avoid potential duty discrepancies.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517180000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517180000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
85171800 Free — —
8517180020 — — ["No."]
8517180010 — — ["No."]
8517180050 — — ["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 851718 cover?

This subheading covers "Other" telecommunication apparatus, specifically those not elsewhere specified within heading 8517. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes devices for the transmission or reception of voice, images, or other data that do not fit into more specific subheadings like mobile phones or base stations. For example, certain specialized data modems or communication devices for industrial applications might fall here if they are not explicitly covered by other codes.

What falls outside HS 851718?

The following products are excluded from HS 851718: telephones for wireless networks (HS 851712), facsimile machines (HS 851720), and base stations (HS 851762). Also excluded are devices primarily functioning as computers or data processing machines that incorporate telecommunication functions, which are typically classified under Chapter 84. For instance, a smartphone with advanced computing capabilities would not be classified here but under a more specific mobile phone code.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851718?

A common error is misinterpreting the "Other" designation as a catch-all for any telecommunication device. General Interpretative Rule 3(c) of the Harmonized System states that goods should be classified to the subheading which occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration. Importers often fail to exhaust all more specific subheadings within 8517 before resorting to 851718, leading to incorrect classifications for items that have a more precise classification elsewhere.

How should importers classify products under HS 851718?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851718 involves a thorough review of the product's primary function and features against the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules. Importers and customs brokers must first consult all preceding subheadings within heading 8517 to ensure the product does not fit a more specific category. If after this exhaustive review, the product remains unclassified, then 851718 becomes the appropriate designation.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851718?

A specific type of industrial data modem, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 7.0% × $500 = $35.00. This calculation is performed using the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8517.18.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851718?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851718, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries, potentially offering a reduced rate or Free entry. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 851769 HS 851779 HS 851829 HS 851519 HS 852719 HS 851771

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 8517.18, covering 'other' telephone sets?

HS code 8517.18, designated for 'other' telephone sets not specified elsewhere in heading 8517, often carries varied duty rates depending on the importing country's tariff schedule. For instance, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. In contrast, the UK's duty rate can be 35% ad valorem, though preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. The EU's TARIC system also provides specific rates, which can be found by consulting the TARIC database for the particular product and origin.

How is the import duty for HS 8517.18 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS 8517.18 typically depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For an ad valorem rate, the duty is calculated as: (Customs Value of Goods × Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if a shipment of 'other' telephone sets valued at $10,000 is imported into the UK with a 35% ad valorem duty rate, the import duty would be $10,000 × 0.35 = $3,500.

What classification criteria distinguish items falling under HS 8517.18 from other telephone sets in heading 8517?

HS code 8517.18 is a residual category for telephone sets that do not fit into more specific subheadings within 8517. Heading 8517 covers 'Telephone sets, including smartphones and other mobile phones; other apparatus for the transmission or reception of voice, images or other data, including apparatus for communication in wired or wireless networks (such as a local or cellular network) as well as other apparatus for transmission and reception in networks.' Items classified under 8517.18 are typically telephone sets that are not specifically listed or defined in other subheadings, such as cordless phones, video phones, or other specialized telephone equipment not covered elsewhere.

What documentation is commonly required for importing goods classified under HS 8517.18?

Standard import documentation for HS 8517.18 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value 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, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Importers should also ensure compliance with any specific product safety or telecommunications regulations mandated by the destination country, which might necessitate additional declarations or certifications.

Which trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 8517.18, and how can importers verify eligibility?

The eligibility for preferential duty rates for HS 8517.18 depends heavily on the specific trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States, the UK, or the EU may qualify for reduced or zero duties. To verify eligibility, importers and customs brokers must consult the text of the relevant trade agreement and ensure that the imported telephone sets meet the product-specific rules of origin. This often involves obtaining a Certificate of Origin from the exporter, which attests to the origin of the goods according to the FTA's criteria. For instance, if a product originates from a country party to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and meets its rules of origin, it could benefit from preferential rates when imported into the US, Mexico, or Canada.