What are the HS codes and tariffs for LED lights from China?
Hisuper HernándezShare
China produces 30% of the world's LED lights. Every year, many people, especially from North America and the EU, import LED lighting from Chinese factories for resale or home use. However, first-time visitors often have concerns about importing LED lights from China. These are the three main concerns they often have.
What are the HS codes and tariffs for LED lights from China?
HS Import Code for LED Lights
Internationally, LED lights are primarily classified under HS codes 8539, 8541, and 9405. Additional digits are added to more precisely specify product characteristics and uses. Below are the classifications and descriptions from hts.usitc.gov (the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule).
Import tariffs on LED lights from China may vary depending on the type of LED lighting and the importing country's tax policies. To find the correct tariff, check the HS codes for LED lights with your supplier or consult your country's official customs website. Let's take the United States as an example.
HS Import Code for LED Lights
Typically, US import tariffs on LED lights from China range from 2% to 8%, with some products exempt from tariffs. Two examples are shown below.
HS code 8539.52.00 applies to LED lamps, which have a tariff rate of 2%.
HS code 9405.31.00 refers to lighting fixtures that use only LED light sources, such as chandeliers or wall sconces, with a tariff rate of 8%.
Additionally, the U.S. imposes Section 301 tariffs on certain products imported from China, including LED lights. These tariffs are divided into four lists, and the additional tariff depends on which list your product belongs to; for example, List 3 adds 25% and List 4, 7.5%. To find out the exact tariff for your LED lights, we recommend consulting a customs broker for precise information.
What are the safety certifications and compliances for LED lighting?
In the European market
LED lights imported into Europe must bear the CE marking (UKCA in the UK). Specific tests depend on the type of lighting:
Low voltage DC lights: EMC testing is usually sufficient.
Mains powered AC lights: require EMC + LVD testing.
Lights with WiFi or Bluetooth: require RED (Radio Equipment Directive) testing.
On the other hand, LED lights must comply with RoHS, ERP (Energy-Related Products Directive), and MSDS standards. For outdoor lights, IP water and dust resistance testing is required.
In the US market
FCC Compliance
Regular lights: FCC-SDoC.
Lights with WiFi or Bluetooth: Requires FCC ID.
DOE Certification
Mandatory energy efficiency certification for products such as LED bulbs and power supplies.
ETL or UL Certification (for Amazon)
Both ETL and UL are not mandatory. However, if you want to list your LED lighting product on Amazon US, you can opt for the ETL or UL test report (with no annual fees or factory inspections required).
In the Australian market
SAA Certification: Focuses on safety and performance.
C-Tick Certification: Guarantees electromagnetic compatibility.
In the Japanese market
PSE certification is mandatory for electrical products to meet Japanese safety standards.
Alibaba vs. JingSourcing: Which is better for importing LED lights?
Finding LED lighting suppliers on Alibaba is undeniably easy. However, the real challenge lies in finding a reliable supplier, something that's especially difficult for those new to the industry. For example, one of our clients previously purchased dimmable pendant lights with remote control from an Alibaba supplier but encountered several quality issues:
The inner packaging was too tight, causing the rectangular accessories to become deformed.
The lamp covers had circular holes.
The wave-style designs lacked metal components.
The lamp tubes were not properly embedded in the frames.
With 10 years of experience in LED lighting wholesale and customization, we have served many satisfied international customers, including but not limited to:
New sellers are just beginning to shine in businesses, like Amazon store owners.
Successful LED lighting retailers and commercial companies are looking to optimize their supply chains to achieve better prices and quality.
Advertising agencies and design firms get large-scale festive and landscape lighting.
Star-rated hotels and villa complexes purchase a variety of lighting fixtures, mostly crystal LED chandeliers.
Foreign lighting factories repeatedly request complete kits for local production.
General merchandise wholesalers purchase standard household lighting fixtures in bulk.
Whether you're purchasing lighting for your home renovation or business, whether in the initial stages or during expansion, we can help you quickly find reliable lighting manufacturers and secure truly competitive prices. This is based on our in-depth knowledge of LED materials and luminaires, as well as production workmanship.
Thanks to our in-depth knowledge of the lighting industry, we can accurately inspect the quality and details of lighting products, some of which are often overlooked by inexperienced customers or third-party inspectors. Throughout the quality control process, we maintain transparent communication by sharing photos, videos, or live video calls with you. We will resolve any identified issues without re-inspection fees.
Once everything is confirmed to be in order, we arrange the logistics, ensuring that all the accessory parts fit perfectly in both the structure and the packaging size.
