HS 851762 Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus

Quick Answer: Machines for the reception, conversion, transmission, or regeneration of voice, images, or other data, including switching and routing apparatus, enter the UK and EU at 0.00% and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This HS code encompasses a wide array of networking equipment such as routers, switches, modems, and network interface cards. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity in the US, which can impact landed costs. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varied tariff treatments is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517620000 0.00 %

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517620000 0.00 %

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8517620010 ["No."]
85176200 Free
8517620020 ["No."]
8517620090 ["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?

What products does HS 851762 cover?

This subheading covers machines specifically designed for the reception, conversion, transmission, or regeneration of voice, images, or other data, including apparatus for switching and routing. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this includes devices such as network routers, network switches, modems, and wireless access points that facilitate data communication. These devices are integral to modern telecommunications and data networks, enabling the flow of information between different points.

What falls outside HS 851762?

The following products are excluded from HS 851762: devices that primarily perform other functions, even if they have data transmission capabilities, such as computers (HS 8471), mobile phones (HS 851712), or broadcast transmitters (HS 8525). Also excluded are simple cables or connectors (Chapter 85, other headings) or equipment solely for the reception of broadcast signals without data conversion or transmission capabilities. For instance, a simple antenna without active electronic components for data processing would not fall under this code.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 851762?

A common error is misclassifying integrated devices where the primary function is not data reception, conversion, transmission, or regeneration, or where the device is primarily a computer. For example, a laptop computer with Wi-Fi capabilities is classified under HS 8471, not 851762, as its primary function is data processing. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, which addresses composite goods, is crucial to ensure the correct classification based on the essential character of the product.

How should importers classify products under HS 851762?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 851762 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes, the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff), and any relevant national rulings. Key considerations include whether the apparatus's principal function is the reception, conversion, transmission, or regeneration of data, and whether it performs switching or routing functions.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 851762?

A Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switch weighing 5 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD would attract a US duty of $45.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($1,500 USD × 0.03 = $45.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8517.62.9000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 851762?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 851762, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

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 851762 in major markets like the US, EU, and UK?

Import duty rates for HS code 851762, covering machines for data transmission and switching, vary by country. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 0.00% ad valorem. The European Union, under the TARIC system, also generally applies a 0.00% duty rate for goods classified under 8517.62. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. However, these rates can be subject to change and may differ based on the country of origin and specific trade agreements. Always consult the latest official tariff schedules for the importing country.

How is the duty calculated for HS 851762 if a duty rate were applied, for example, a hypothetical 3.5% ad valorem rate?

The duty for HS code 851762 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of networking equipment classified under 851762 has a customs value of $10,000 and is subject to a hypothetical duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as follows: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350.00 (Duty Amount). It's crucial to use the correct customs value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of importation.

What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS 851762?

To be classified under HS code 851762, machines must be primarily designed for the reception, conversion, transmission, or regeneration of voice, images, or other data. This includes apparatus that perform switching and routing functions. Examples include network switches, routers, modems, and wireless access points. The core function must be data communication or network management. Devices that primarily perform other functions, even if they have some data transmission capabilities, would likely be classified elsewhere.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 851762?

Standard import documentation for HS 851762 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value and description of the goods, a packing list specifying the contents of each package, and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the equipment, additional documentation may be required. This could include a certificate of origin, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. For certain types of electronic equipment, compliance with local safety and telecommunications standards (e.g., FCC in the US, CE marking in the EU) might necessitate specific declarations or certifications.

How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect import duties for HS 851762?

Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS 851762, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For example, if equipment manufactured in a USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) member country qualifies under the agreement's rules of origin, it may be eligible for preferential duty rates, often 0.00%, upon importation into another USMCA country. Similarly, various Free Trade Agreements the EU has with third countries can offer reduced or zero duties. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin from the exporter to claim these preferential rates and ensure the goods meet all origin criteria.