HS Code for Christmas lights

Christmas lights, specifically those not utilizing LED technology, are classified under HS code 9405.39. This classification is part of Chapter 94, which includes furniture, bedding, and luminaires. Heading 9405 covers luminaires and lighting fittings not elsewhere specified. Within this heading, the 9405.3x series is reserved for lighting strings of a kind used for Christmas trees. While 9405.31 is designated for LED light sources, 9405.39 covers \"other\" lighting strings, primarily those utilizing incandescent or filament bulbs. The classification is functional, based on the intended use for Christmas tree decoration. Even if the lights are used for other festive purposes, such as decorating a porch or a window, their design as \"lighting strings of a kind used for Christmas trees\" dictates their placement here. This code ensures that decorative lighting is distinguished from standard household lamps or industrial lighting systems, which carry different safety standards and tariff rates.

Products Included

• Incandescent Christmas tree light strings
• Filament-bulb fairy lights for festive use
• Miniature bulb strings for indoor Christmas trees
• Outdoor-rated incandescent festive light strings
• Replacement bulb sets for non-LED Christmas strings

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is using 9405.31, which is exclusively for LED light sources. With the global shift toward energy efficiency, many importers default to the LED code without verifying the bulb type. Another error is using 9505.10 (Christmas decorations); while lights are decorative, the HS nomenclature gives precedence to the lighting heading (9405) for electric light strings. Finally, individual bulbs imported separately should be classified under 8539 rather than as part of a light string.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Christmas lights?

For non-LED Christmas tree light strings, the HS code is 9405.39. For LED versions, use 9405.31.

Does this code include battery-operated lights?

Yes, as long as the light strings are of a kind used for Christmas trees and do not use LED bulbs, they fall under 9405.39 regardless of the power source.