About HS Code 853400

This HS code covers Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), which are the foundational platforms for nearly all modern electronic devices. PCBs provide mechanical support and electrical connections for electronic components through conductive tracks etched onto a non-conductive substrate. The international trade in PCBs is enormous, driven by the global electronics manufacturing industry's demand for these essential components. Importers are electronics assembly plants across virtually every sector, including consumer electronics, automotive, industrial, and medical devices. Exporters are predominantly specialized PCB fabrication houses, with a significant concentration in East Asia. Key considerations in this trade include the number of layers, material type (e.g., FR-4, flexible), and manufacturing precision, which directly impact the performance and reliability of the final electronic product.

Products Under This Code

Single-sided PCBs, double-sided PCBs, multi-layer PCBs, flexible PCBs, rigid-flex PCBs, HDI PCBs, metal-core PCBs

Real World Examples

FR-4 PCBs, Rogers high-frequency PCBs, DuPont Pyralux flexible circuits, TTM Technologies PCBs

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with populated PCBs (PCBA) which fall under the heading of the complete apparatus (e.g., 8517 for telecommunication), or with raw PCB materials like copper clad laminates (7409, 3920).

Products Classified Under 8534.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.

Trade Overview

China, Taiwan, and South Korea are dominant exporters; USA, Germany, and Japan are major importers for electronics assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 853400?

HS code 853400 covers: Circuits; printed. This HS code covers Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), which are the foundational platforms for nearly all modern electronic devices. PCBs provide mechanical support and electrical connections for electronic components through conductive tracks etched onto a non-conductive substrate. The international trade in PCBs is enormous, driven by the global electronics manufacturing industry's demand for these essential components. Importers are electronics assembly plants across virtually every sector, including consumer electronics, automotive, industrial, and medical devices. Exporters are predominantly specialized PCB fabrication houses, with a significant concentration in East Asia. Key considerations in this trade include the number of layers, material type (e.g., FR-4, flexible), and manufacturing precision, which directly impact the performance and reliability of the final electronic product.

What products fall under HS code 853400?

Single-sided PCBs, double-sided PCBs, multi-layer PCBs, flexible PCBs, rigid-flex PCBs, HDI PCBs, metal-core PCBs

What are common misclassifications for HS code 853400?

Can be confused with populated PCBs (PCBA) which fall under the heading of the complete apparatus (e.g., 8517 for telecommunication), or with raw PCB materials like copper clad laminates (7409, 3920).

How is HS code 853400 structured?

HS code 853400 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (34) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.