All physical DMP products need to have a six digit Harmonization System (HS) Code defined when added to the CMS system. Since any future exporting may not be known at the time the product is released, the HS code should be assigned for all physical products. Sales literature and Marketing give aways also need to have an HS code. Software or other products delivered electronically do not need an HS code. The full HS number format is xxxx.xx.xxxx. DMP and the CMS system only store the first six digits xxxx.xx which can then be shown on a bill of lading or invoices. The last 4 digits are country specific and are typically supplied by the importer.
This link provides further HS code reference: https://www.trade.gov/harmonized-system-hs-codes
The HS code is part of the international Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) and is used to establish any tariff rates due when a DMP customer imports DMP goods into another country, or when DMP is the importer. DMP may be the importer in Canada when a DMP dealer purchases products and has their CMS Customer Master defaulted to pay in Canadian dollars. In this case DMP is the importer and must pay any import duties or tariffs collected by Canada due from the USA.
This link provides further HTS system reference: https://hts.usitc.gov
To determine the appropriate HS code for a DMP product select the proper category from the list below.
If the proper category does not exist, then a new HS code may need to be determined.
HS Codes based on Specific Products
For access control readers and hardware, the HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category of electrical machines and equipment used for security or access control.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.90:
- Other electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits, n.e.s. (not elsewhere specified).
- This can include access control readers, electronic locks, and related security control devices.
For a proximity or smart access card, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category for smart cards and similar devices.
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8523.51:
- Smart cards, including contactless smart cards
- Covers cards with embedded integrated circuits, including proximity cards used for access control, payment, identification, etc.
- If the card is a simple proximity card without an integrated chip (just RFID, for example), it may sometimes be classified under a broader heading for RFID devices, but most modern proximity access cards are smart cards with chips
For burglar alarm input expansion modules, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code generally falls under the broader category for security and alarm systems and their parts.
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.
However, since you're referring specifically to input expansion modules, which are electronic components or modules used within alarm systems (but not full systems themselves), they are more likely considered parts of electrical signaling apparatus.
More accurate HS Code (for parts):
HS Code 8531.90:
- Parts of electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms).
However, depending on the specific function of the output expansion module (e.g., if it’s a programmable logic controller, simple relay output, or interface module), it might also fall under a broader electronics category such as:
HS Code 8537.10:
- Boards, panels, consoles... for electric control or the distribution of electricity, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V
For Burglary Alarm Keypad, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category related to security or alarm systems.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- This code covers components used in burglar alarm systems, including keypads, motion sensors, and control panels.
Things to confirm:
- If the keypad is part of a larger alarm system and is not capable of functioning independently, this code is appropriate.
- If the keypad has telecommunication functions (e.g., GSM communication), classification might vary slightly, possibly under telecommunication apparatus (Heading 8517), though that's rare for simple keypads.
For burglary or fire alarm relay, the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code typically falls under the category related to security or alarm systems.
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms)
For burglar and fire alarm accessories, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under Heading 8531.
The most common HS Codes are:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- Use this for complete alarm systems or core components designed specifically for burglar or fire alarms.
HS Code 8531.20:
- Indicator panels incorporating liquid crystal devices (LCD) or light emitting diodes (LED)
- Suitable for display/control panels that are part of alarm systems.
HS Code 8531.90:
- This is used for accessories or spare parts that are components of burglar or fire alarm systems (e.g., sensors, detectors, mounting brackets, cables specific to the system, etc.).
To determine the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code for fire and burglary system metal conduit box accessories, it's important to consider:
- The material (metal),
- The function (conduit/accessory for wiring/safety systems),
- Whether it's an electrical fitting or part of a security system.
The most commonly used HS code generally falls under:
HS Code 8538.10:
- Boards, panels, consoles, desks, and other bases for the apparatus described in heading 8535, 8536, or 8537
Other HS codes to consider are:
HS Code 8538.90:
- Other parts (used in electrical apparatus)
- If the metal conduit box accessories are electrical fittings used for mounting or protecting electrical wiring, including for fire/burglary systems, this would likely apply.
Alternatively:
If the items are more generic conduit fittings (not necessarily tied to fire/burglar alarm systems), then:
HS Code 7307.21:
- Stainless steel pipe fittings (e.g., for conduits)
HS Code 7326.90:
- Other articles of iron or steel, not elsewhere specified
For plastic accessories for burglar and fire alarm systems under the HS (Harmonized System) code, you must consider both the material (plastic) and the use (accessories for security systems).
The most commonly used HS Codes are:
HS Code 3926.90:
- If the accessories are generic plastic parts
HS Code 8531.90:
- If the plastic accessories are specifically designed parts or accessories for alarm systems
- Parts of electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, burglar or fire alarms, etc.)
For a burglary alarm cellular antenna, the HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category related to antennas or parts for telecommunications.
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8529.10:
- Aerials and aerial reflectors of all kinds; parts suitable for use therewith
- Since the device is an antenna used for cellular communication in burglary alarm systems, this code fits well.
For a burglary or fire alarm system central monitoring hardware, the HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of electrical signaling equipment or security and alarm systems.
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), excluding those of heading 8512 or 8530.
- This code covers various alarm and signaling devices including central monitoring hardware for burglar or fire alarm systems.
For CO Detector used in an alarm system, the HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category of Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- Intruder alarms
- Fire detection systems
- Gas leak detection systems (like CO detectors)
- Similar alarm systems that alert through visual, audible, or electronic signals
- If the CO detector is integrated into an alarm system (e.g. part of a home or industrial safety alarm setup),8531.10 is the most suitable.
- If it's a standalone CO detector (e.g. a battery-operated household detector not part of a broader alarm system), it might still fall under 8531.10, but in some jurisdictions, 9027.10 (gas or smoke analysis apparatus) might be argued — though this is more for scientific instruments.
For security system coaxial wire, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category for coaxial cables and other telecommunications cables.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8544.70:
- Insulated (including enameled or anodized) wire, cable (including coaxial cable) and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors; optical fibre cables, made up of individually sheathed fibers.
- Coaxial cable and other coaxial electric conductors
- Since security system coax wire is a type of coaxial cable used for transmitting video or data signals, it fits well here.
For burglar alarm door contacts, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of electrical signaling or alarm devices.
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- This covers electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), excluding those incorporating an electric light.
- Burglar or fire alarms (including door contacts as part of the alarm system)
- These door contacts are typically treated as part of burglar alarm systems
For a security system enclosure lock and key, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically fall under other locks of base metal.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8301.40:
- Other locks (other than padlocks), of base metal, used for furniture, doors, etc.
- This typically includes locks for enclosures, panels, or security system housings.
For an ethernet swith, router or WAP, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code generally falls under machines for reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8517.62:
- Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus.
- Covers devices such as wireless routers, switches, hubs, and wireless access points, especially when they facilitate data transmission.
For fire alarm input/output expansion modules, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code typically falls under the broader category for electrical apparatus for signaling and safety systems.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms)
- Fire alarm control panels
- Expansion modules (input/output modules)
- Signaling relays, etc., related to fire safety
- Fire alarm I/O expansion modules
For a fire alarm keypad , the HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under categories related to electrical signaling apparatus for fire safety systems.
The most appropriate HS code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- If the keypad is part of a larger alarm system, it would likely still be classified under this heading, as part of the fire alarm signaling system.
- If the keypad is sold separately, and its use is specifically for fire alarm systems, is also is classified under this heading.
For a fire alarm pull station, the HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category for fire alarms and related devices.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms)
- A fire alarm pull station is considered an electric signaling apparatus used for fire alarms
For a burglary system glass break detector, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code would typically fall under the broader category of burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels), burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- Glass break detectors are used as part of a security/burglar alarm system. Since they serve a protective function by detecting break-ins, they fall under the category of burglar alarms.
For a lanyard and key ring, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of accessories or similar articles.
For Lanyard:
HS Code 5806.32:
- Narrow woven fabrics, other than goods of heading 5807; narrow fabrics consisting of warp without weft assembled by means of an adhesive (bolducs), of man-made fibers; other than embroidery.
For Key Ring:
- If metal, often classified under HS Code 8308.90:
- Watch straps, watch bands and watch bracelets, and parts thereof, of base metal; and parts thereof of base metal n.e.s. (including key rings).
- If plastic, it could be under HS Code 3926.90:
- Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914.
For 12V or 24V lead-acid batteries, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under other lead-acid storage batteries.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8507.20:
- Other lead-acid accumulators (excluding those of a kind used for starting piston engines)
- This includes sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries used in:
- Alarm systems
- Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
- Emergency lighting
- Solar backup systems
For lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries used in burglary alarm systems, the HS (Harmonized System) Code depends on the battery material.
Below are options for the HS Code:
For lithium-ion batteries used in a burglary or fire alarm system, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code would likely be:
HS Code 8507.60:
- Lithium-ion accumulators (including lithium-polymer), whether or not rectangular (including square)
- This is the standard international HS code used for lithium-based rechargeable batteries, regardless of their specific application (e.g., for alarm systems, laptops, tools, etc.).
For a lithium metal batteries used in a burglary or fire alarm system, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code would likely be:
HS Code 8506.50:
- Primary cells and primary batteries – Lithium
The correct Harmonized System (HS) Code for marketing giveaways like coffee cups, screwdrivers, golf balls, pocket levels, and hats depends on the material, use, and nature of the item — whether it's promotional or not doesn't typically change the code, unless it's clearly marked or packaged as a set for promotion.
Here's a breakdown of appropriate HS codes for each type of item:
Coffee Cups
- Ceramic: HS Code 6912.00 – Ceramic tableware
- Plastic: HS Code 3924.10 – Tableware and kitchenware of plastics
- Glass: HS Code 7013.49 – Glass table/kitchen articles (not lead crystal)
Screwdrivers
- Manual (hand) screwdrivers: HS Code 8205.40 – Screwdrivers and parts thereof
Golf Balls
- HS Code 9506.32 – Golf balls (under "Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics or athletics")
Pocket Levels
- HS Code 9031.80 – Measuring or checking instruments, appliances not specified elsewhere
Hats (Baseball caps, etc.)
- Depends on material:
- Cotton: HS Code 6505.00.30 – Hats made of cotton
- Synthetic fibers: HS Code 6505.00.90 – Hats of other textile materials
For a burglary system with motion detection, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code generally falls under burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms).
- Burglar alarms
- Fire alarms
- Motion detectors (when used in security systems)
- Intruder detection systems
- PIR (Passive Infrared) motion detectors for security
- Alarm panels
- Infrared motion sensors integrated into alarm systems
- If the system includes surveillance cameras, those components might fall under a different HS Code (like 8525.89 for video recording/transmitting).
For a 16-volt plug-in transformer, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category for electrical transformers.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8504.40:
- Static converters (e.g., rectifiers), including plug-in transformers and adapters.
- Often used in the U.S. for AC to DC plug-in power supplies.
- Can apply to transformers with a power output not exceeding a certain wattage.
- If it's an AC to DC adapter (like for small electronics): it's a static converter.
- If it's only stepping voltage up/down without converting AC to DC, it's a transformer.
For power supplies used in burglar or fire alarm systems, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code depends on how they're classified—either as power supplies or as parts/accessories of alarm systems.
Here are relevant options:
HS Code 8504.40:
- Power Supplies (Generic)
- Static converters (e.g., AC-DC converters, DC-DC converters)
- This is typically used for power supplies, including those that convert AC to DC or regulate voltage.
- The DC power supply is a general-purpose unit or not specifically tailored for an alarm system.
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
HS Code 8531.90:
- Parts of 8531.10 equipment
- if it's an integral component sold or installed specifically for an alarm system
For printed sales brochures and catalogs, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under trade advertising material, commercial catalogues and the like.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 4911.10:
- Printed sales brochures
- Commercial catalogs
- Trade advertising materials (e.g., flyers, pamphlets, booklets for promotion)
For burglar and fire alarm sirens and annunciators, the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) Code generally falls under electric burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus:
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus
- Fire and burglar alarm systems
- Sirens used in these systems
- Indicator panels
- Annunciators used to signal conditions in security or fire detection
For a fire alarm system smoke detector, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under the category for electric sound or visual signaling apparatus used for safety or warning purposes.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms)
- This code covers:
- Smoke detectors
- Fire alarms
- Fire alarm control panels (if part of the system)
- If the device is part of a complete system and includes features like both sound and light signaling, this code is still applicable.
For Software on Disc or Electronic, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code generally falls under recorded optical media for the recording of sound or other phenomena:
HS Code 8523.49:
- Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, smart cards and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena... Other: Software.
- For software, other than game software.
- If it's for operating systems or application software.
- For security software, depending on your local customs interpretation.
For Electronically Delivered Software:
- There is no HS code, because, it’s not a physical product and Customs declarations aren’t required for intangible goods in most jurisdictions.
For USB module with memory, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code typically falls under solid-state non-volatile storage devices.
HS Code 8523.51:
- Solid-state non-volatile storage devices including USB drives, SD Cards, SSDs
For burglary alarm video cameras, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code generally falls under the category of video surveillance equipment.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8525.89:
- Television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders
- This includes surveillance-type cameras, such as CCTV and burglar alarm video cameras.
For primarily a security system/server (with alarm, video analytics, intrusion detection), the correct HS (Harmonized System) Code typically falls under burglary alarm video analytics server
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
- Electrical apparatus for sound or visual signaling (bells, sirens, etc.) for protection against burglary or fire.
- Applicable if the device’s main function is security, not general computing.
- Devices marketed for surveillance and security (like NVRs or smart video analytics systems).
For burglary and fire alarm wire-in transformers, the HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of electrical transformers.
The most commonly used HS Code is:
HS Code 8504.31:
- Electrical transformers, static converters (for example, rectifiers) and inductors.
- Other transformers having a power handling capacity not exceeding 1 kVA
- Since these are wire-in transformers specifically designed for burglary and fire alarm systems, they would be categorized under electrical transformers, not under alarm systems themselves.
For wireless devices or receiver/repeaters, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the broader category of security or signaling apparatus.
The most common used HS Code is:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), bells, sirens, and other apparatus for burglar or fire alarms.
For burglary alarm system wiring harnesses, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code will depend on how they are classified—either as:
- Electrical wiring sets used in specific systems, or
- Parts/accessories of alarm systems
The most commonly used HS code is:
HS Code 8536.90:
- Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits... parts thereof
If these wiring harnesses are specifically designed for burglary (security) alarm systems, use one of the two codes below:
HS Code 8531.10:
- Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
HS Code 8531.90:
- If the harnesses are specifically identifiable as parts of burglary alarms