HS 852871 Reception apparatus for television, whether or not incorporating radio-broadcast receivers or sound or video recording or reproducing apparatus

The import duty rates for HS code 852871, which covers 'Reception apparatus for television, whether or not incorporating radio-broadcast receivers or sound or video recording or reproducing apparatus' (specifically, 'Set-top boxes'), vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can also be 0.00% for goods originating from certain countries with preferential trade agreements. However, standard rates can be higher; for instance, a rate of 25% might apply in specific circumstances or for goods from countries without preferential access. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your goods and their origin.

The import duty for HS code 852871 is typically calculated based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a country applies a 5% ad valorem duty on set-top boxes (HS 852871) and the declared customs value of a shipment is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 5% of $10,000 = $500. If a specific duty of $10 per unit were applied, and you imported 100 units, the duty would be: $10/unit * 100 units = $1,000. It is crucial to identify whether the duty is ad valorem, specific, or a combination, and to use the correct customs value or quantity for the calculation.

When importing reception apparatus for television (HS 852871), standard import documentation is 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 for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially safety or compliance certificates (e.g., FCC certification in the US, CE marking in the EU) to ensure the goods meet local regulatory standards for electronic equipment. Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.

Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS code 852871 if the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For instance, if set-top boxes (HS 852871) are manufactured in a country that is part of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., goods originating in Mexico or Canada for the USMCA, or goods originating in an FTA partner country for the EU), and they satisfy the specific rules of origin (e.g., regional value content, tariff shift requirements), they may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00%. To claim these benefits, importers must typically provide a valid certificate of origin issued by the exporter or producer.

Yes, HS code 852871 specifically covers 'Set-top boxes'. Classification hinges on the primary function of the apparatus. A set-top box is an electronic device that receives a television signal (e.g., digital, cable, satellite) and converts it into a format that can be displayed on a television screen. It often incorporates tuners and decoders. If the apparatus's main purpose is to receive and process broadcast signals for display on a TV, it generally falls under this code. Apparatus that primarily perform other functions, even if they can receive TV signals as a secondary feature, might be classified elsewhere. For example, a smart TV with integrated streaming capabilities but whose primary function is displaying broadcast television would still fall under 8528. However, a standalone media player primarily for playing local files or streaming from the internet, without integrated TV tuners, would likely be classified under a different HS code.