HS 852341 Optical media
Quick Answer: Optical media imported under HS 852341 enters the US duty-free, the EU at 0.00%, and the UK at 0.00%. This classification covers recorded or unrecorded optical media, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs, intended for data storage or playback. Importers should note the significant duty disparity for the US market, where the rate is free, compared to the 0.00% rates in the EU and UK. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific product descriptions against the tariff schedule for accurate classification and duty assessment. Exporters should be aware of these varying import duties when planning shipments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8523410000 | — | — | — |
| 8523411000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8523413000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8523419000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8523410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8523411000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8523413000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8523419000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8523410000 | 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?
What products does HS 852341 cover?
This subheading covers prepared unrecorded optical media, specifically compact discs (CDs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs) that are not pre-recorded with data, sound, or images. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes blank CDs and DVDs intended for recording by the end-user. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this definition, focusing on the unrecorded nature of the media as the primary classification criterion.
What falls outside HS 852341?
The following products are excluded from HS 852341: pre-recorded optical media such as music CDs, movie DVDs, or software discs, which are classified under other subheadings within HS 8523. Also excluded are optical media that are not in a ready-to-use format, such as raw optical discs before they are coated or manufactured into a usable disc. Furthermore, magnetic media, flash memory drives, and solid-state drives, despite their data storage function, are classified under different HS headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 852341?
A common error is misclassifying pre-recorded optical media as unrecorded media, or vice versa. This often occurs when the content of the disc is not clearly identified. Another mistake involves classifying optical media that are not blank but have been partially or fully written to by the manufacturer for testing or demonstration purposes, which may still fall under this subheading if they are not considered "prepared" for commercial distribution of recorded content. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 852341?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 852341 involves a thorough examination of the product's characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the optical media is indeed unrecorded and intended for user recording. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, is essential. If the product is a blank CD or DVD, and it is not pre-recorded with any data, sound, or images, it should be classified under this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 852341?
A shipment of 1,000 blank CD-R discs, with a declared customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($200 USD × 0.05 = $10.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8523.41.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 852341?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 852341, 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, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries, often resulting in a Free duty rate. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and importing jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the general import duty rates for HS code 852341 (Optical media)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 852341 is typically Free for imports into the United States. However, specific duty rates can vary significantly depending on the country of origin and any applicable trade agreements. For instance, imports from countries that are not part of a preferential trade agreement may be subject to different tariffs. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most accurate and up-to-date rates based on the specific origin of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 852341 if a tariff applies?
If a duty rate applies to optical media under HS code 852341, it is typically calculated as either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the declared customs value) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a hypothetical specific duty of $0.50 per disc applies, and an importer brings in 1,000 discs, the total duty would be 1,000 discs * $0.50/disc = $500.00. If an ad valorem rate of 5% applies, and the declared customs value of the shipment is $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 * 5% = $500.00. Always verify the applicable duty calculation method with the relevant customs authority, such as USITC for the US.
What documentation is typically required for importing optical media under HS code 852341?
When importing optical media classified under HS code 852341, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as proof of shipment. Depending on the origin and nature of the optical media (e.g., pre-recorded content), additional certifications or declarations related to intellectual property rights or content may be necessary. Importers should consult the specific requirements of the importing country's customs authority, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the EU's TARIC system, to ensure full compliance.
Do trade agreements like USMCA or EU trade deals affect the duty rates for HS code 852341?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 852341. For example, if optical media originates from a country that is a party to a free trade agreement with the importing country (e.g., the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement - USMCA, or various EU trade agreements), it may qualify for preferential duty rates, often Free, provided that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Importers must obtain a Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim these preferential rates. Consulting the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff or the EU TARIC database, is essential to determine eligibility and applicable rates under relevant trade agreements.
What are the classification criteria for optical media under HS code 852341?
HS code 852341 specifically covers 'Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, 'smart cards' and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena, whether or not recorded, including matrices and masters for the production of discs, but excluding products of Chapter 37.' For optical media, this generally includes Compact Discs (CDs), Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), and Blu-ray discs, whether blank or containing pre-recorded data, audio, or video. The key is that they are designed for optical reading. If the media uses a different recording technology (e.g., magnetic tape or solid-state flash memory), it would be classified under a different HS code. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides explanatory notes that can assist in precise classification.