Networking Equipment Imports

Networking equipment – switches, routers, firewalls, access points – classifies under HTS 8517.62. Base MFN duty-free under MFN. Section 122 stacks; Section 301 List 3 at 25% applies for China-origin. Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Aruba, Fortinet, Palo Alto Networks the major vendors.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for networking equipment.

For SMB importers in this category, the practical questions are HTS classification, applicable Section 232/301/122 stacks, FTA opportunities, and regulatory overlay (FDA/USDA/EPA/CPSC where relevant).

HTS classification basics

Routers, switches, firewalls HTS 8517.62.0010 (other apparatus for transmission of voice, data, etc.).

Tariff stack and rates

Base 0% + Section 122 (15%) + Section 301 (25% if China-origin).

Country of origin considerations

China assembly dominant historically. Vietnam, Malaysia, Mexico assembly growing. Cisco mostly in Mexico/China; Arista in Malaysia.

Regulatory overlay

FCC certification. BIS export controls for encryption capabilities. UL listing.

Mitigation opportunities

Mexican USMCA qualification. Vietnam diversification. Encryption export controls separately.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical effective duty rate?

Depends on origin and HTS classification. China-origin: 22-42% effective when Section 301 + Section 122 stack. USMCA-qualifying Mexican production: often 0-3%. Vietnam, India, Korea: 15-17% with Section 122.

Can I qualify under USMCA?

Possible if production occurs in U.S., Mexico, or Canada and meets rules of origin (typically 60% RVC under transaction value or 50% net cost). USMCA-qualifying goods are exempt from Section 122.

Are IEEPA refunds available?

Yes – for entries between April 5, 2025 and February 24, 2026 that paid IEEPA duty. Filed through CBP’s CAPE portal. We file claims on contingency for filings above $50k.

What about Section 232 exposure?

Specific to product type. Steel and aluminum derivatives expansion brought some downstream products into scope. Component-level analysis identifies actual coverage.

How do you help with this category?

Tariff exposure assessment ($2,500-$7,500), classification audit, USMCA qualification, refund recovery, audit response. Independent of any customs brokerage.