Why Electronics Imports Are Complex
Electronics face more regulatory agencies than almost any other product category:
FCC (Federal Communications Commission)
- • All RF-emitting devices need FCC approval
- • Requires Declaration of Conformity or FCC ID
- • Non-compliant = seizure + destruction + fines
- • Applies to phones, laptops, routers, smart devices
CPSC (Consumer Product Safety)
- • Tracking labels required (manufacturer, date, batch)
- • Children's electronics need CPC certification
- • Safety testing for lithium batteries (UN 38.3)
- • UL or equivalent safety certification often required
Lithium Battery Regulations
- • UN 38.3 testing documentation required
- • Special dangerous goods declarations
- • Watt-hour capacity limits (100Wh airline limit)
- • IATA packing requirements for air freight
Section 301 Tariffs on Chinese Tech
- • 7.5-25% additional tariffs on Chinese electronics
- • Applies to phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches
- • Some exclusions available (must apply proactively)
- • Changes frequently - expert monitoring required
Reality Check: 40% of first-time electronics importers face delays from missing FCC/CPSC docs. Average delay: 5-10 days. Average cost: $5,000-15,000 in demurrage and lost sales.
Electronics Clearance Pricing
| Shipment Type | Value Range | Broker Fee | Typical Total |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Section 321 (Small Tech)
Sample products, small orders
|
Under $800 | $35 - $65 |
$35 - $65
No duties/MPF
|
|
Standard Electronics
Most tech shipments
|
$800 - $50,000 | $125 - $150 |
$175 - $200+
+MPF +duties +Sec301
|
|
High-Value Tech
Large commercial orders
|
$50,000+ | $150 - $175+ |
$210 - $235+
+MPF +duties +Sec301
|
Electronics Cost Example:
Shipment: $30,000 of wireless headphones from China
Broker Fee: $150
MPF: $51.84
Base Duty (4.9%): $1,470
Section 301 (7.5%): $2,250
Total Cost: $3,921.84
✓ With Section 301 Exclusion (if eligible):
$150 broker + $51.84 MPF + $1,470 duty = $1,671.84 total
Savings: $2,250 — We monitor exclusion opportunities for all clients!
Electronics Import FAQs
What are the FCC requirements for electronics imports? +
Do electronics face Section 301 tariffs? +
Can I import lithium battery products? +
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