About HS Code 852321
This HS code specifically covers magnetic stripe cards, whether they are blank or pre-recorded, playing a crucial role in various sectors globally. These cards are fundamental to banking, access control, and identification systems, facilitating secure transactions and data storage. Major importers include financial institutions, security companies, and large corporations that issue employee IDs or loyalty cards, often located in developed economies with robust digital infrastructures. Exporters are typically specialized manufacturers of card technologies, often found in East Asia and Europe. Key aspects of trade involve the security features embedded in these cards, compliance with international standards (e.g., ISO/IEC 7811), and the increasing competition from chip-based and contactless payment solutions. Despite newer technologies, magnetic stripe cards remain widely used due to their cost-effectiveness and established infrastructure.
Products Under This Code
Credit cards (unencoded), Debit cards (unencoded), Hotel key cards, Access control cards, Loyalty program cards, Gift cards (magnetic stripe), Employee ID cards
Real World Examples
Visa credit card (blank), Mastercard debit card (blank), Hilton hotel key card, HID access card, Starbucks loyalty card
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from 852352 (Smart cards) which incorporate an integrated circuit, and 852329 (Other magnetic media) which covers bulk magnetic tapes or discs.
Products Classified Under 8523.21
Industry
This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.
Trade Overview
China, Germany, and the USA are key players in both the export and import of these magnetic stripe cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 852321?
HS code 852321 covers: Magnetic media; cards incorporating a magnetic stripe, whether or not recorded, excluding products of Chapter 37. This HS code specifically covers magnetic stripe cards, whether they are blank or pre-recorded, playing a crucial role in various sectors globally. These cards are fundamental to banking, access control, and identification systems, facilitating secure transactions and data storage. Major importers include financial institutions, security companies, and large corporations that issue employee IDs or loyalty cards, often located in developed economies with robust digital infrastructures. Exporters are typically specialized manufacturers of card technologies, often found in East Asia and Europe. Key aspects of trade involve the security features embedded in these cards, compliance with international standards (e.g., ISO/IEC 7811), and the increasing competition from chip-based and contactless payment solutions. Despite newer technologies, magnetic stripe cards remain widely used due to their cost-effectiveness and established infrastructure.
What products fall under HS code 852321?
Credit cards (unencoded), Debit cards (unencoded), Hotel key cards, Access control cards, Loyalty program cards, Gift cards (magnetic stripe), Employee ID cards
What are common misclassifications for HS code 852321?
This code is distinct from 852352 (Smart cards) which incorporate an integrated circuit, and 852329 (Other magnetic media) which covers bulk magnetic tapes or discs.
How is HS code 852321 structured?
HS code 852321 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (23) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.