HS code for headphones
The U.S. HS code for headphones is usually 8518.30.20.00 (bluetooth over-ear), 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth over-ear | 8518.30.20.00 | Free | 12.5% |
| Wired | 8518.30.20.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 8518.30.20.00: Other
- 8518.30.20.00: Other
What decides the code
Headphones, wired or Bluetooth, are classified as headphones and earphones under heading 8518, in subheading 8518.30.20.00.
- The product is a headphone or earphone, so it falls in heading 8518, which covers headphones and earphones whether or not combined with a microphone.
- Both the Bluetooth over-ear and wired versions take 8518.30.20.00, so the wireless connection does not move the item to another line.
- A set of a microphone and one or more loudspeakers also stays in heading 8518, so a headset with a boom microphone remains in this heading.
Common mistakes
- Classifying Bluetooth headphones under 8517 as wireless network equipment is wrong because heading 8518 names headphones directly.
- Putting headphones in 8518.21 or 8518.22 is wrong because those lines cover single and multiple loudspeakers, not headphones.
- Treating a headset with a microphone as a separate microphone under 8518.10 is wrong because heading 8518 covers headphones combined with a microphone.
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 8518.30.20.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Bluetooth over-ear
- CN 8518 30 00, Free
- Wired
- CN 8518 30 00, Free
EU Combined Nomenclature 2026, third-country (erga omnes) duty. Preferential rates and EU trade remedy duties are not included.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for headphones?
The U.S. HTS code for headphones is usually 8518.30.20.00 (bluetooth over-ear). Other versions use 8518.30.20.00 for wired. The first six digits, 8518.30, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on headphones from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 8518.30.20.00 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
- 8518.30.20.00Other
- Heading 8518Microphones and stands therefor; loudspeakers, whether or not mounted in their enclosures; headphones and earphones, whether or not combined with a microphone, and sets consisting of a microphone and one or more loudspeakers; audio-frequency electric amplifiers; electric sound amplifier sets; parts thereof
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.