Analysis
HTS 8531.80.15 covers doorbells, chimes, buzzers and similar apparatus under heading 8531 (electric sound or visual signaling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator…).
Neighbouring lines carry rates from duty-free to 1.3%, so the exact line matters. The widest gap is with 8531.90.90 (other: other), at duty-free: a product that belongs there but is entered here, or the reverse, changes the duty by 1.3 percentage points.
The general duty rate is 1.3% of the customs value, which is in the middle of the rates in chapter 85 (59th percentile of 624 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $130 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
The column 2 rate, for countries without normal trade relations, is 35%, 26.9 times the general rate.
Goods that qualify under GSP, the Australia FTA, the Automotive Products Trade Act, the Bahrain FTA, the civil aircraft agreement, and 14 others can enter duty-free instead of paying 1.3%. It is also eligible under GSP, the developing-country programme, which Congress has to renew; check whether GSP is in force on the entry date.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 8531.10.00 | Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus | 1.3% |
| 8531.20.00 | Indicator panels incorporating liquid crystal devices (LCD's) or light emitting diodes (LED) | Free |
| 8531.80.90 | Other apparatus: other | Free |
| 8531.90.15 | Of the panels of subheading 8531.20 | Free |
| 8531.90.30 | Printed circuit assemblies: other | Free |
| 8531.90.75 | Of the panels of subheading 8531.20 | Free |
| 8531.90.90 | Other: other | Free |