HS code for car charger
The U.S. HS code for a car charger is usually 8504.40.95.80 (12v usb), with no general duty and an estimated total of 12.5% from China and 12.5% from Vietnam once additional duties are added.
Estimates use tariff data as of October 22, 2026. The China and Vietnam estimates include Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%). From China, Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply, up to 37.5% in total. Classifications and duty estimates are guidance based on the published HTSUS. The importer of record is responsible for the final classification.
Codes by variant
| Variant | HTS code | General duty | Est. from China |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12V USB | 8504.40.95.80 | Free | 12.5% |
- 8504.40.95.80: Static converters / Other
What decides the code
A 12V USB car charger is a static converter that changes vehicle voltage to a USB output, classified under heading 8504, specifically 8504.40.95.80.
- The device converts voltage rather than storing or generating power, so it falls in heading 8504 as a static converter.
- It plugs into a 12V vehicle socket and outputs USB power, which keeps it in the static converter subheading 8504.40.
- It is a finished unit with no separate housing or assembly step, so it takes the residual line 8504.40.95.80.
Common mistakes
- Classifying it under 8504.40.95.80 as a power supply for a laptop is wrong because the output is USB, not a regulated DC supply for a computer.
- Putting it in 8536 as a plug or socket is wrong because the device converts voltage, not just connects a circuit.
- Classifying it under 8544 as a cable is wrong because the charger is a converter unit, not a length of insulated wire.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 37.5%.
- Vietnam
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 8504.40.95.80, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for a car charger?
The U.S. HTS code for a car charger is usually 8504.40.95.80 (12v usb). The first six digits, 8504.40, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on a car charger from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 8504.40.95.80 is Free. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 12.5% of customs value. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 12.5%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
Related products
Codes checked against the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule retrieved October 22, 2026. Additional duties reviewed October 22, 2026. This is an estimate: the importer of record is responsible for classification.