1. The relevant chapters
Chapter 85
Motors, generators, transformers, batteries, household appliances, telecommunications equipment, electronic components.
Chapter 90
Optical, photographic, measuring, checking and medical instruments.
Chapter 84
Data processing machines, which brings in computers and some devices that look like electronics but are not classified with them.
2. The three questions that decide it
Finished article or part
A finished article is classified by its function. A part follows the notes.
Electrical device or instrument
Primarily electrical function: chapter 85.
Primarily measuring, checking or display function: often chapter 90.
Stand-alone or incorporated
An electrical component incorporated into a machine is generally classified with the machine. Presented separately, it is classified on its own.
3. Examples of the differences
A mobile phone falls in chapter 85.
A tablet computer falls in chapter 84, as a data processing machine.
A monitor falls in chapter 90.
Batteries and cables fall in chapter 85.
4. The common errors
Classifying by brand or trade name. Two products with the same name but different functions land in different headings.
Ignoring the exclusions that separate chapters 85 and 90.
Inferring a part’s classification from the finished machine’s.
Ignoring multi-function status, which requires the essential character test.
5. Why this category goes wrong so often
Electronics change faster than classification habits.
A product that looks like last year’s model may perform a function that belongs to a different heading.
6. A working habit
Keep a classification file for each product with its function, parameters and rationale.
When a new model is released, redo the classification rather than carrying over the old code.
7. Closing view
Electronics is the category where “it looks similar” is most likely to be wrong.
The difference in function is the difference in heading.
*This article is based on the notes to chapters 84, 85 and 90 of the Harmonized System. Exporters should confirm classification with China Customs.*