Heading 8518

Microphones 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

16 declarable lines

Heading 8518 covers microphones, loudspeakers, headphones and earphones, audio-frequency electric amplifiers, electric sound amplifier sets, and their parts. The heading splits by article type first, then by whether the goods are for telecommunication use, mounted in an enclosure, or are parts. Most lines in this heading carry a general (MFN) duty rate of Free.

Products in this heading

Handheld dynamic microphone
Microphone stand
Single loudspeaker mounted in its enclosure
Bluetooth over-ear headphones
Wired earbuds with inline microphone
Audio-frequency electric amplifier
Electric sound amplifier set
Replacement printed circuit assembly for a loudspeaker

How to choose the right subheading

Article type: microphone, loudspeaker, headphone or earphone, amplifier, amplifier set, or part.
For microphones and loudspeakers, whether the goods are for telecommunication use with the size and frequency limits stated in the subheading text.
For loudspeakers, whether single or multiple units, and whether mounted in the same enclosure or without a housing.
For headphones and earphones, whether the article is a line telephone handset or another type.
For parts, whether the item is a printed circuit assembly and which finished article it serves.

Often confused with

Smartphone
Telephone sets for cellular networks are classified in heading 8517, not as microphone or headphone goods.
Heading 8517
Smart speaker with a network voice assistant
When the network communication function gives the article its essential character, it falls in 8517 rather than 8518.
Heading 8517
Car radio or home radio receiver
Reception apparatus for radio broadcasting is classified in heading 8527.
Heading 8527
Video camera recorder
Cameras that record video are in heading 8525, even when they include a microphone.
Heading 8525
Recorded audio tape or disc
Media for recording sound is classified in heading 8523, separate from the playback hardware.
Heading 8523

Frequently asked questions

What is the HTS code for Bluetooth headphones?

Headphones and earphones, including wireless models, are classified under 8518.30.20.00 at a general (MFN) rate of Free.

What is the duty on a single loudspeaker mounted in its enclosure?

Single loudspeakers mounted in their enclosures fall under 8518.21.00.00, with a general (MFN) rate of Free.

How do I classify a spare part for a microphone or loudspeaker?

Parts not covered by the printed circuit assembly lines of 8518.90.20.00 or 8518.90.60.00 are classified under 8518.90.81.00 at a general (MFN) rate of Free.

Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.