The Harmonized System (HS) code for a signal bulb, which falls under the category of electric lamps, is 8539. This classification specifically covers the bulb (lamp) itself, distinguishing it from the equipment it might be part of.
Understanding HS Codes
HS codes are an international standardized system of names and numbers for classifying traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), they are used by customs authorities worldwide to identify products for duties and taxes and to collect trade statistics.
Detailed HS Code Classification for Signal Bulbs
A signal bulb, often used as an indicator or warning light, is fundamentally an electric lamp. Therefore, its classification aligns with headings that describe lamps and lighting components.
Heading 8539: Electric Filament or Discharge Lamps
This is the primary and most accurate HS code for the signal bulb itself. Heading 8539 encompasses electric filament or discharge lamps, including sealed beam lamp units, as well as ultra-violet or infra-red lamps and arc-lamps. A signal bulb, whether it's an incandescent, LED, or other type of lamp designed to emit a signal, fits precisely into this category.
Distinction from Heading 8512: Electrical Lighting or Signalling Equipment
It's important to differentiate a signal bulb from the equipment it operates within. Heading 8512 covers electrical lighting or signalling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539), windscreen wipers, defrosters, and demisters, of a kind used for cycles or motor vehicles. This heading typically applies to the complete assembly or apparatus, such as a turn signal assembly or a complete dashboard indicator unit, but it explicitly excludes the lamps (bulbs) themselves if they fall under 8539. If the item in question is merely the replaceable bulb, 8539 is the correct classification.
The table below illustrates these classifications:
| HS Code | Description | Application for Signal Bulbs |
|---|---|---|
| 8539 | Electric Filament Or Discharge Lamps, Including Sealed Beam Lamp Units And Ultra-Violet Or Infrared Lamps; Arc-Lamps | This code is for the signal bulb (lamp) itself, regardless of its specific use (e.g., automotive indicator, industrial warning light). |
| 8512 | Electrical Lighting Or Signalling Equipment (Excluding Articles Of Heading 8539), Windscreen Wipers, Defrosters And Dem | This code is for the equipment that uses the signal bulb (e.g., a complete turn signal assembly for a vehicle), but it specifically excludes the bulb itself if it's classified under 8539. |
| 85129000 | Parts | This code applies to parts of the equipment classified under 8512, but not to the bulb if it is primarily classified under 8539. |
Practical Application
For customs declarations, if you are importing or exporting just the light source (the bulb), the HS code will be under 8539. For example, a replacement automotive indicator bulb or an LED warning light bulb for industrial machinery would use this classification. If you are dealing with a complete lamp assembly that includes the housing, wiring, and other components, its classification might fall under 8512 if it's considered "equipment" and does not primarily constitute just a lamp.
Understanding this distinction ensures accurate customs declarations, compliance with international trade regulations, and proper calculation of duties and taxes.
