Earbuds HS Code — Wireless vs Wired Classification Guide

The classification split

Wireless earbuds with Bluetooth classify under HS 8517.62 — machines for the reception, conversion, and transmission of voice, images, or other data. The wireless radio is the principal function under GRI 3(b).

Wired earbuds and headphones classify under HS 8518.30 — headphones, earphones, and combined microphone/speaker sets. No radio, no communication apparatus classification.

Duty rates by country

The classification difference hits your margin directly.

• US: 8517.62 is 0% base duty. 8518.30 is 4.9%. On a $5 FOB earbud, that's $0.245/unit.
• EU: 8517.62 is 0%. 8518.30 is 2%. Smaller gap but still adds up at volume.
• UK: 8517.62 is 0%. 8518.30 is 2%.
• Canada: 8517.62 is 0%. 8518.30 is 0%. Canada zeroes both — no difference there.

Common edge cases

TWS (True Wireless Stereo) earbuds with a charging case: classify the earbuds, not the case. The case is an accessory.

Gaming headsets with a USB dongle (not Bluetooth): these use a proprietary wireless link. Still classify under 8517.62 — the radio function is the same regardless of protocol.

Earbuds sold with a wired cable AND Bluetooth: classify by principal function. If the product is marketed and used primarily as wireless, it's 8517.62.

Bone-conduction headphones with Bluetooth: 8517.62. The transducer type doesn't change the classification — the wireless radio does.

Compliance requirements

Any Bluetooth device entering the US needs an FCC ID. The manufacturer handles testing and registration, but you need proof at the border. Check the FCC Equipment Authorization database for your model before shipping.

For Section 301: most wireless audio from China faces 7.5–25% additional duty on top of the base rate. Check the current USTR exclusion list for 8517.62.

Frequently asked questions

Are AirPods classified under 8517 or 8518?

AirPods are wireless (Bluetooth) and classify under 8517.62. The same applies to all TWS earbuds regardless of brand.

What about noise-cancelling headphones?

ANC doesn't change the classification. Wireless ANC headphones are 8517.62. Wired ANC headphones are 8518.30. The radio determines the code.

My earbuds have both Bluetooth and a 3.5mm cable option. Which code?

The essential character is wireless — 8517.62. The cable is a secondary input option.