Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) System

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.

A commonly used HS code for access control readers and related hardware 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)."

More specifically:

• 8531.90.90 – 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 forsmart cards and similar devices.

The most commonly used HS code is:

HS Code: 8523.51

• Description: Smart cards, including contactless smart cards
• This heading 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, so 8523.51 is usually the best fit.

Summary:

• HS Code: 8523.51
• Description: Smart cards (including contactless)

For burglar alarm input expansion modules, the appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) generally falls under the broader category for security and alarm systems and their parts.

Suggested HS Code:

8531.10.00 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.

However, since you're referring specifically to input expansion modules, which are electronic components or modulesused within alarm systems (but not full systems themselves), they are more likely considered parts of electrical signaling apparatus.

More accurate HS Code (for parts):

8531.90.00 – Parts of electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms).

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What HS Code is appropriate for burglary alarm output expansion modules?

The appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for burglary alarm output expansion modules typically falls under the category of security or alarm system components.

A common HS Code that may apply is:

8531.10 – "Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus"

More specifically:

• 8531.10.00 – "Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus"

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:

• 8537.10 – "Boards, panels, consoles... for electric control or the distribution of electricity, for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V"

Decision Factors:

• If it is specifically marketed and used as part of a burglary or fire alarm system, 8531.10.00 is more accurate.
• If it functions more as a general electrical control unit (e.g., programmable output controller not tied directly to a burglar alarm), 8537.10.xxxx might apply.

The appropriate Harmonized Tariff (HT) code for a burglary alarm keypad typically falls under tariff codes related to security or alarm systems.

Most likely HTS code:

8531.10.00 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

Full classification:

• Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment
• Heading 8531: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, burglar or fire alarms)
• Subheading 8531.10.00: Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

Description:

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.

The appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code for a burglary or fire alarm relay typically falls under:

HS Code: 8531.10

Description: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms)

Breakdown:

• Chapter 85 – Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof
• Heading 8531 – Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus
• Subheading 8531.10 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for burglar and fire alarm system accessories typically falls underHeading 8531, which covers:

"Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530."

Common HS Codes for Burglar and Fire Alarm Accessories: 

✅ 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.

✅ 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.

✅ 8531.90

• "Parts"
• 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.
•  

Most appropriate HS code:

The most suitable HS code generally falls under:

8538.10 – Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading 8535, 8536 or 8537.

But more specifically, you may consider:

8538.90.90 – 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:

7307.21 – Stainless steel pipe fittings (e.g., for conduits)
or
7326.90.86 – Other articles of iron or steel, not elsewhere specified

Summary:

For electrical metal conduit box accessories specifically used in fire and burglary alarm systems, your best candidate is:

✅ HS Code: 8538.90.90 – "Other parts of electrical apparatus"

To classify plastic accessories for burglar and fire alarm systems under the Harmonized System (HS), you must consider both the material (plastic) and the use (accessories for security systems).

General Classification Guidance:

• If the accessories are generic plastic parts, they often fall under:
  • HS Code 3926.90 – Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 39.01 to 39.14, other.
• If the plastic accessories are specifically designed parts or accessories for alarm systems, they may fall under:
  • HS Code 8531.90 – Parts of electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, burglar or fire alarms, etc.).

Recommended HS Codes:

For a burglary alarm cellular antenna, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category related to antennas or parts for telecommunications.

The most relevant HS code is likely:

HS Code 8529.10 – "Aerials and aerial reflectors of all kinds; parts suitable for use therewith"

Explanation:

• 8529 covers antennas and parts of antennas.
• The subheading 8529.10 is specifically for aerials (antennas) and aerial reflectors.

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 appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of electrical signaling equipment or security and alarm systems.

The most relevant HS code is likely:

HS Code: 8531.10

Description: 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.

Summary:

• HS Code: 8531.10
• Description: Burglar or fire alarm signaling apparatus (electric sound or visual signaling apparatus)

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for a carbon monoxide (CO) detector used in an alarm system is generally:

8531.10.00 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

This category covers:

• Intruder alarms
• Fire detection systems
• Gas leak detection systems (like CO detectors)
• Similar alarm systems that alert through visual, audible, or electronic signals

Key Notes:

• If the CO detector is integrated into an alarm system (e.g. part of a home or industrial safety alarm setup),8531.10.00 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 8531.10.00, but in some jurisdictions, 9027.10.00 (gas or smoke analysis apparatus) might be argued — though this is more for scientific instruments.

Recommendation:

Use HS Code 8531.10.00 for most commercial CO alarm systems, especially if they are designed for safety alerts in homes or buildings.

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 common HS code for coaxial cables is:

HS Code: 8544.70
Description: "Insulated (including enamelled or anodised) wire, cable (including coaxial cable) and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors; optical fibre cables, made up of individually sheathed fibres."

More specifically:

• 8544.70 is for "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 code generally falls under the category of electrical signaling or alarm devices.

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."

Specifically:

• 8531.10.00 — 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, which fall under heading 8531.

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for security hold-up buttons—also commonly referred to as panic buttons or emergency alarm buttons—typically falls under the category of electrical signaling apparatus.

Suggested HS Code:

8531.10 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for a security system enclosure lock and key depends on the specific type of lock and its material or intended use. However, here are some of the most relevant HS codes you might consider:

🔒 1. For locks used in cabinets, enclosures, or similar applications:

HS Code: 8301.40

• Description: "Other locks (other than padlocks), of base metal, used for furniture, doors, etc."
• This typically includes locks for enclosures, panels, or security system housings.
• 8301.40.90 is commonly used for miscellaneous locks that don't fit specific categories.

The appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for an Ethernet Switch is typically:

HS Code: 8517.62

Description: Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus.

Full Code Breakdown:

• 85 – Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof
• 8517 – Telephone sets, including telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks
• 8517.62 – Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data (including routers and switches)

Notes:

• Ethernet switches fall under the broader category of networking equipment used in data communication.
• This HS code also includes devices like routers, hubs, modems, and similar network devices.

What HS code is appropriate for a wireless access point?

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for a wireless access point is typically:

8517.62

Full Description:

HS Code 8517.62 – Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus.

Breakdown:

• 8517 – Telephone sets, including smartphones and other telecommunication equipment.
• 8517.62 – Covers devices such as wireless routers, switches, hubs, and wireless access points, especially when they facilitate data transmission. 

The appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for fire alarm input/output expansion modules typically falls under the broader category for electrical apparatus for signaling and safety systems.

Here’s the most commonly used HS Code:

HS Code: 8531.10

Description: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530

This category includes:

• Fire alarm control panels
• Expansion modules (input/output modules)
• Signaling relays, etc., related to fire safety

Recommendations:

1. Primary Recommendation: Use 8531.10 for fire alarm I/O expansion modules.

The Harmonized Tariff (HT) code for a fire alarm keypad generally falls under categories related to electrical signaling apparatus for fire safety systems.

Most appropriate HTS code:

8531.10.0000 – "Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus."

This code is part of the broader category:

• Heading 8531: Electrical sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530.

Additional Notes:

• 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, 8531.10.0000 remains appropriate.

The appropriate HS code for a fire alarm pull station typically falls under the category for fire alarms and related devices. Based on the Harmonized System (HS) classification:

• HS Code 8531.10 — This covers "Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530." 

A fire alarm pull station is considered an electric signaling apparatus used for fire alarms, so it generally fits under 8531.10.

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.

Likely HS Code:

8531.10 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

Full Breakdown:

• HS Code: 8531.10
• Description: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels), burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

Explanation:

Glass break detectors are used as part of a security/burglar alarm system. Since they serve a protective function by detectingbreak-ins, they fall under the category of burglar alarms.

However, final classification may vary based on:

• Whether the detector is standalone or part of a complete system
• Its method of signal transmission (wired vs. wireless)
• Local customs interpretations in specific countries

For a lanyard and key ring, the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code generally falls under the category of accessories or similar articles.

Here are common HS code suggestions:

• Lanyard: Often classified under 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."

Key Ring (metal or plastic):

• 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:

HS Code: 8507.10

Full description:

8507.10 – Lead-acid accumulators, of a kind used for starting piston engines

This code is commonly used for starter batteries like those found in cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats.

If the batteries are not used for starting engines (e.g., for solar energy storage, UPS systems, backup power), the correct HS code is likely:

8507.20

Full description:

8507.20 – Other lead-acid accumulators

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What HS code would be appropriate for 12v or 24v lead acid batteries for alarm systems

The appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for 12V or 24V lead-acid batteries used in alarm systems (or other electronic backup systems) is typically:

8507.10

Description: Lead-acid accumulators, of a kind used for starting piston engines

However, if the batteries are not used for starting engines (i.e., they are deep cycle or backup/standby batteries), then the more appropriate code would be:

✅ 8507.20

Full Description: Other lead-acid accumulators (excluding those of a kind used for starting piston engines)
Common Use: This includes sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries used in:

• Alarm systems
• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
• Emergency lighting
• Solar backup systems

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code for lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries used in burglary alarm systems generally falls under:

🔋 HS Code: 8507.60

Description:

"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.).

 What HS code is appropriate for a lithium metal battery in a burglary of fire alarm system?

For a lithium metal battery used in a burglary or fire alarm system, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code would likely be:

HS Code: 8506.50

Description:

Primary cells and primary batteries – Lithium

 Explanation:

• "Primary" means non-rechargeable (as lithium metal batteries are, unlike lithium-ion batteries which are rechargeable).
• 8506 covers all primary batteries.
• 8506.50 specifically refers to lithium primary cells and batteries.

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

• Likely classified under measuring tools:
• 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 Code (Harmonized System Code) generally falls under:

HS Code: 8531.10

Full Description: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (e.g., bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530.

This category includes:

• Burglar alarms
• Fire alarms
• Motion detectors (when used in security systems)
• Intruder detection systems

Detailed Breakdown:

• Heading: 8531 — Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus
• Subheading: 8531.10 — Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

Examples of items under 8531.10:

• PIR (Passive Infrared) motion detectors for security
• Alarm panels
• Infrared motion sensors integrated into alarm systems

 Important Notes:

• 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. Based on the international HS classification system, a common code is:

HS Code: 8504.40

Description: Static converters (e.g., rectifiers), including plug-in transformers and adapters.

However, the full code may vary slightly depending on the country and additional sub-classifications. For example:

• 8504.40.85 – Often used in the U.S. for AC to DC plug-in power supplies.
• 8504.40.30 – Can apply to transformers with a power output not exceeding a certain wattage.

To be more precise, consider:

• 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.

Next Steps:

1. Determine power output (watts) and whether it's AC/AC or AC/DC.
2. Check your country’s customs tariff schedule for local subheadings.
3. Optionally consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes or use a customs database (e.g., HTSUS for the U.S., TARIC for the EU).

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ALSO: What HS code would be appropriate for burglary alarm plug-in transformers?

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for plug-in transformers used with burglary alarm systems generally falls under:

📦 HS Code: 8504.40

Description: Static converters (e.g., AC to DC adapters and plug-in power supplies)

However, depending on the specific function and design of the transformer, this could vary slightly.

🔍 More Specific Classification:

If it's a plug-in transformer designed to convert voltage for an alarm system and functions similarly to an AC adapter or power supply, then the full code might be:

• 8504.40.85 – Power supplies suitable for use with automatic data processing machines or units thereof (if clearly for that purpose)
• 8504.40.95 – Other static converters (this is more likely for generic or burglar alarm system use)

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for DC power supplies used in burglar or fire alarm systems depends on how they're classified—either as power supplies or as parts/accessories of alarm systems.

Here are two relevant options:

🔹 Option 1: 8504.40 — Power Supplies (Generic)

HS Code: 8504.40

• Description: Static converters (e.g., AC-DC converters, DC-DC converters)
• Use Case: This is typically used for power supplies, including those that convert AC to DC or regulate voltage.

Full code structure:

• 8504.40.XXXX — Further broken down by power rating, type, etc.

Use if: The DC power supply is a general-purpose unit or not specifically tailored for an alarm system.

🔹 Option 2: 8531.10 or 8531.90 — Alarm Systems and Parts

• HS Code: 8531.10
  • Description: Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
• HS Code: 8531.90
  • Description: Parts of 8531.10 equipment

Use if: The DC power supply is a specialized part of a burglar or fire alarm system (i.e., designed only to work with such systems).

✅ Recommendation:

• Use 8504.40 if it's a standalone DC power supply.
• Use 8531.90 if it's an integral component sold or installed specifically for an alarm system.

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for printed sales brochures and catalogs is:

HS Code: 4911.10

Full Description:

4911.10 – Trade advertising material, commercial catalogs and the like

This code covers:

• Printed sales brochures
• Commercial catalogs
• Trade advertising materials (e.g., flyers, pamphlets, booklets for promotion)

Notes:

• This is under Chapter 49 of the HS system: Printed books, newspapers, pictures, and other products of the printing industry.

For burglar and fire alarm sirens and annunciators, the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) Code generally falls under:

HS Code: 8531.10

Description: Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530.

 Breakdown:

• 8531 – Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus
• 8531.10 – Burglar or fire alarms and similar signaling apparatus 

This heading includes:

• Fire and burglar alarm systems
• Sirens used in these systems
• Indicator panels
• Annunciators used to signal conditions in security or fire detection

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for a fire alarm system smoke detector typically falls under the category for electric sound or visual signaling apparatus used for safety or warning purposes.

Recommended HS Code:

8531.10.00

Description:

Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms): Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus.

This code covers:

• Smoke detectors
• Fire alarms
• Fire alarm control panels (if part of the system)

Notes:

• If the device is part of a complete system and includes features like both sound and light signaling, this code is still applicable.

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) Code for alarm system software on a disc (e.g., CD, DVD) generally falls under:

HS Code: 8523.49

Description: Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, smart cards and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena... Other: Software.

More specifically:

• 8523.49.20 – For software, other than game software.
• 8523.49.40 – If it's for operating systems or application software.
• 8523.49.50 – For security software, depending on your local customs interpretation.

Notes:

• The actual 8- or 10-digit code may vary by country (since countries extend the 6-digit HS system for local classification).
• If the software is preloaded on hardware, then the classification might differ (e.g., it may be classified as part of the alarm system under 8531.10).
• If it's delivered digitally (via download, no physical media), it may not be subject to tariffs in many jurisdictions, but classification could differ

 For software delivered electronically (e.g. via download or streaming, not on a physical medium), Harmonized System (HS) codes generally do not apply because the HS system is designed for physical goods crossing borders, not for digital or intangible products.

For Electronically Delivered Software:

• There is no HS code, because:
  • It’s not a physical product.
  • Customs declarations aren’t required for intangible goods in most jurisdictions.

The appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code for a USB module with memory—such as a USB flash drive—typically falls under:

HS Code: 8523.51

Description:

"Solid-state non-volatile storage devices" (e.g., USB flash drives, memory cards)

Breakdown:

• 85 – Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof
• 8523 – Discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, smart cards, and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena
• 8523.51 – Solid-state non-volatile storage devices

The appropriate HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for burglary alarm video cameras generally falls under the category ofvideo surveillance equipment. Based on the Harmonized System (used internationally), the most commonly used HS Code is:

HS Code: 8525.89

• Description: "Television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders — Other"
• This includes surveillance-type cameras, such as CCTV and burglar alarm video cameras.

Breakdown:

• 8525.: Transmission apparatus for radio-broadcasting or television, whether or not incorporating reception apparatus or sound recording/reproducing apparatus; television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders
• 8525.89: Covers "Other" types not specifically listed, which is typically where surveillance/burglar alarm cameras are classified.

In some countries, customs authorities may use sub-headings or further digits (e.g., 85258910, 85258990) to distinguish between types of video cameras, especially if integrated with alarm systems.

Recommendations:

• Check with your local customs authority (e.g., U.S. CBP, EU TARIC, India ICEGATE, etc.) for precise classification and duty rates.
• If your camera is network-connected or IP-based, it might be subject to additional telecom or IT equipment classifications.
• If the product is part of a complete alarm system, you may also need to consider heading 8531 for "Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus 

What HS Code is appropriate for IP-based burglary alarm video cameras?

or IP-based burglary alarm video cameras, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) Code is typically:

HS Code: 8525.89

Full Description:

"Television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders; other than those specified in subheadings 8525.81 and 8525.82."

Key Points:

• 8525 covers transmission apparatus for radio-broadcasting or television.
• 8525.89 is the subheading for other video camera recorders, which includes:
  • IP-based security cameras, especially if they record and/or transmit video over a network.
  • Surveillance or CCTV systems that use IP connectivity.
  • Burglar alarm systems with video functionality, provided their primary role is video capture/transmission

To determine the correct HS Code (Harmonized System Code) for a burglary alarm video analytics server, you need to evaluate its primary function and classification rules. Here’s how it's typically approached:

🔍 Key Considerations:

• Primary function: Is it more a security system, or more like a general-purpose computer/server?
• Integrated features: Does it include video recording, analytics (AI), alarms, or sensors?
• Standalone or part of a larger system?

✅ Most Likely HS Code Options:

1. If it’s primarily a security system/server (with alarm, video analytics, intrusion detection):

• HS Code: 8531.10 – “Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus”
  • Full code: 8531.10.00
  • Description: 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.

2. If it functions primarily as a server (data processing device with AI for analytics):

• HS Code: 8471.50 – “Processing units other than those of subheading 8471.41 and 8471.49”
  • Full code: 8471.50.00
  • Use this if it’s essentially a computer server running analytics software.

🧠 Common Practice by Companies:

• Devices marketed for surveillance and security (like NVRs or smart video analytics systems) are usually classified under8531.10.
• If the item is just a server with pre-installed software, some declare it under 8471.50.

✅ Recommendation:

If your video analytics server is primarily designed for burglary detection and integrated into an alarm system, the most appropriate HS code is:

HS Code: 8531.10.00 – “Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus”

For burglary and fire alarm wire-in transformers, the appropriate HS code generally falls under the category of electrical transformers.

Based on the Harmonized System (HS) classification, transformers are classified under:

• HS Code 8504 — "Electrical transformers, static converters (for example, rectifiers) and inductors."

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.

More detailed breakdown:

• 8504.31 — "Other transformers having a power handling capacity not exceeding 1 kVA"
• 8504.32 — "Other transformers having a power handling capacity exceeding 1 kVA but not exceeding 16 kVA"
• 8504.39 — "Other transformers"

For customs classification purposes, the appropriate Harmonized Tariff (HT) code—also known as HS code—for a wireless burglary alarm system device generally falls under the broader category of security or signaling apparatus.

A commonly used HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code for such devices is: 

8531.10.00

Description: 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.

This would typically cover:

• Wireless motion sensors
• Wireless door/window sensors
• Wireless alarm control panels
• Wireless sirens and alert devices

For a burglary alarm system RF point receiver, the appropriate HS code generally falls under the category for electronic security or alarm systems.

The most relevant HS code would likely be under:

• HS Code 8531 — “Electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530; parts thereof.”

More specifically, the subheading:

• 8531.10 — “Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus”

Since an RF point receiver for a burglary alarm system is part of the alarm apparatus, it fits under this classification. 

Notes:

• If the device has integrated communication capabilities (e.g., it can send alerts via GSM, Wi-Fi, etc.), customs might scrutinize it more and consider other codes like those for telecommunications equipment, but 8531.10.00 is still the most applicable for general alarm components.

For burglary alarm system wiring harnesses, the most appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code will depend on how they are classified—either as:

1. Parts/accessories of alarm systems, or
2. Electrical wiring sets used in specific systems. 

🔍 Likely HS Code:

HS Code: 8536.90
Description: Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits... parts thereof

• 8536.90.85 (or similar subheading depending on the country):
  Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading 8535, 8536 or 8537 (e.g., wiring harnesses)

If these wiring harnesses are specifically designed for burglary (security) alarm systems, you may also consider: 

Alternative (if sold as part of or specific to burglar alarms):

HS Code: 8531.10
Description: Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus

• If the harnesses are specifically identifiable as parts of burglary alarms, use:
  8531.90 – Parts of the apparatus of 8531
  (i.e., parts for burglar alarms, including wiring harnesses) 

✅ Suggested Final Codes (for most jurisdictions like U.S., EU):

• 8531.90.9000 – Parts of burglar alarm systems (best if clearly alarm-specific)
• 8536.90.8500 – Electrical wiring harnesses (generic use)