HS Code for Carbon arc lamp

The carbon arc lamp is classified under HS code 8539.41. This classification is determined by the product's nature as an electric discharge lamp. Chapter 85 of the Harmonized System covers electrical machinery and equipment, and heading 8539 specifically addresses electric filament or discharge lamps. Within this heading, subheading 8539.41 is explicitly designated for arc-lamps. These devices function by creating an electric arc between two carbon electrodes, which produces an extremely bright and intense light. This technology, while older, is still utilized in specific industrial, scientific, and cinematic applications. The classification is based on the physical mechanism of light generation—the electric arc—rather than the specific end-use of the lamp, ensuring that all arc-based lighting units are grouped together for tariff purposes.

Products Included

• Cinema projector carbon arc lamps
• High-intensity searchlight arc lamps
• Laboratory arc-discharge lamps
• Industrial ultraviolet arc lamps
• Vintage theatrical spotlight arc units

Common Misclassification

Carbon arc lamps are sometimes misclassified under HS code 9405, which covers lamps and lighting fittings. However, 9405 is for the fixtures or housings, whereas 8539 is for the actual light-producing bulb or unit. Additionally, they may be confused with 8539.31 (fluorescent lamps) or 8539.32 (mercury or sodium vapor lamps), but 8539.41 is the specific and correct code for all arc-lamps regardless of the gas or electrode type used to sustain the arc.

FAQ

What is the HS code for carbon arc lamp?

The HS code for a carbon arc lamp is 8539.41, which specifically covers arc-lamps within the electric discharge lamp category.

Are LED lamps classified under this same code?

No, LED lamps are classified under HS code 8539.50 (or 8539.52/8539.51 depending on the version of the HS nomenclature), as they use light-emitting diode technology instead of an electric arc.