Mobile phones have become a part of everyday life, and with them comes a wide range of accessories ranging from chargers, earphones, cases, and screen protectors to Bluetooth devices and power banks. If you have ever thought of importing or exporting these accessories, then you must have heard about something called the HS Code.
Now, if you are wondering what exactly the HS Code for mobile phone accessories is and why it matters, relax. In this post, we are going to discuss what HS code is all about and list all the HS codes for mobile phone accessories. Let’s get started!
HS Code for Mobile Phone Accessories
The HS Code stands for Harmonised System Code; it is a set of numbers developed by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to classify goods in international trade. What happens is that every product has its own HS Code. However, the first 6 digits in the HS code are universal, while countries may add extra digits for their own tariff and tax purposes.
Now, when it comes to mobile phone accessories, they don’t all share one single HS Code. Different accessories fall under different classifications. This means that since there are different mobile phone accessories, the HS codes vary depending on the type of mobile phone accessories. For example:
- The HS Code for mobile phone chargers/USB charging cables is 8504.40 or 8544.42 (depending on if it’s an adapter or cable).
- The HS Code for earphones/headphones (with or without mic) is 8518.30.
- The HS Code for protective cases/covers is 3926.90 (if it is made of plastic/silicone) or 4202.99 (if it is made of leather/fabric).
- The HS Code for Screen Protectors (Glass/Plastic) is 7007.29 (for tempered glass).
- The HS Code for Bluetooth Devices (earbuds, speakers) is 8518.22 or 8518.30.
- The HS Code for power banks is 8507.60
From the above, you can see that when we say “HS Code for mobile phone accessories”, we are not talking about one fixed number. Instead, each accessory has its own specific HS Code.
Importance of HS Code for Mobile Phone Accessories
Why should you even care about the HS Code for mobile phone accessories? Well, the reasons why HS Codes for mobile phone accessories are important are detailed below:
- It is essential for importers and exporters to avoid unnecessary fines and delays at customs
- It is needed for customs clearance
- It is essential for international trade
- To enhance uniformity in the importation and exportation of mobile phone accessories.
HS Code 8517 and Mobile Phone Accessories
When talking about HS Codes for mobile phone accessories, one number that comes up a lot is 8517. Now, let’s clear the confusion around this.
What Does HS Code 8517 Cover?
The HS Code 8517 is officially described as “Telephone sets, including smartphones, and other apparatus for the transmission or reception of voice, images, or other data, including apparatus for communication in a wired or wireless network.”
In simple terms, this category is all about:
- Mobile phones themselves (smartphones and feature phones).
- Networking equipment like routers, modems, and base stations.
- Communication devices that transmit or receive data.
Subcategories under HS Code 8517
- 8517.12 for mobile phones (smartphones, cell phones).
- 8517.62 for machines for receiving, converting, and transmitting data (like routers).
- 8517.70 for parts and accessories of telecom apparatus.
Where Do Accessories Fit In?
Some people assume that all mobile phone accessories fall under 8517, but that’s not correct.
- If the accessory is an essential telecom part, like antennas, original circuit modules, or other components used directly in communication, then it usually falls under 8517.70.
- But if it’s a general accessory, like a charger, cable, phone case, or power bank, it goes under its own HS Code (like 8504, 8544, 3926, 8507, etc.).
Common HS Codes for Popular Mobile Phone Accessories
The table below summarizes different HS codes for popular mobile phone accessories.
| S/N | HS Code | Accessory | Description |
| 1. | 9620.00 | Selfie Sticks/Mounts | Monopods and similar accessories |
| 2. | 7007.29 | Screen Protectors (Glass) | Safety glass, toughened/tempered |
| 3. | 4202.99 | Phone Cases (Leather/Fabric) | Other containers (bags, cases, etc.) |
| 4. | 3926.90 | Phone Cases (Plastic) | Articles of plastics |
| 5. | 8507.60 | Power Bank | Lithium-ion battery for portable charging |
| 6. | 8518.30 | Bluetooth Earbuds | Wireless earphones |
| 7. | 8518.22 | Bluetooth Speakers | Multiple loudspeakers, mounted in enclosure |
| 8. | 8518.30 | Earphones/Headphones | Headphones and earphones |
| 9. | 8504.40 | Phone Charger/Adapter | Power supply for electronic devices |
| 10. | 8544.42 | USB Charging Cable | Insulated electric wire with connectors |
HS Code for Mobile Phone Accessories in USA
The HS Code for Mobile Phone Accessories in the USA is 8517.13.00.00. So, if you want to import phone accessories into the US, the HS code that you will use is 8517.13.00.00.