Chapter 85 covers electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles. This chapter covers an extremely wide range of goods, from household appliances to precision electronic components, but excludes mechanical apparatus of Chapter 84, optical and medical equipment of Chapter 90, etc. Within the chapter, headings are arranged by function or use, and 8532 covers fixed, variable or adjustable capacitors. Heading 8532 covers fixed capacitors, variable or adjustable capacitors, and parts thereof. Fixed capacitors are further subdivided by dielectric material into paper, plastic, ceramic, electrolytic, etc. Among ceramic dielectric capacitors, multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors, due to their laminated structure, small size and high capacitance, are widely used in surface mount circuits and are classified under 8532.21. Code 853221 is a six-digit subheading: the first two digits 85 indicate Chapter 85, i.e., electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; digits 3-4, 32, constitute heading 8532, referring to fixed, variable or adjustable capacitors; digits 5-6, 21, constitute the subheading, indicating multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors. The fifth digit 2 represents ceramic dielectric capacitors, and the sixth digit 1 specifically refers to the multilayer structure, distinguishing it from single-layer ceramic capacitors (8532.23), etc. This product is a multilayer ceramic fixed capacitor, with core characteristics of ceramic dielectric, multilayer laminated structure, and fixed capacitance value. 8532.21 explicitly names 'multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors,' so this code is given priority. 8532.23 covers single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors, and 8532.24 covers other fixed capacitors with ceramic dielectric, neither of which meets the 'multilayer' characteristic.
Chapter
Chapter 85 covers electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles. This chapter covers an extremely wide range of goods, from household appliances to precision electronic components, but excludes mechanical apparatus of Chapter 84, optical and medical equipment of Chapter 90, etc. Within the chapter, headings are arranged by function or use, and 8532 covers fixed, variable or adjustable capacitors.
Heading
Heading 8532 covers fixed capacitors, variable or adjustable capacitors, and parts thereof. Fixed capacitors are further subdivided by dielectric material into paper, plastic, ceramic, electrolytic, etc. Among ceramic dielectric capacitors, multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors, due to their laminated structure, small size and high capacitance, are widely used in surface mount circuits and are classified under 8532.21.
Digit Breakdown
Code 853221 is a six-digit subheading: the first two digits 85 indicate Chapter 85, i.e., electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof; digits 3-4, 32, constitute heading 8532, referring to fixed, variable or adjustable capacitors; digits 5-6, 21, constitute the subheading, indicating multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors. The fifth digit 2 represents ceramic dielectric capacitors, and the sixth digit 1 specifically refers to the multilayer structure, distinguishing it from single-layer ceramic capacitors (8532.23), etc.
Classification Basis
This product is a multilayer ceramic fixed capacitor, with core characteristics of ceramic dielectric, multilayer laminated structure, and fixed capacitance value. 8532.21 explicitly names 'multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors,' so this code is given priority. 8532.23 covers single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors, and 8532.24 covers other fixed capacitors with ceramic dielectric, neither of which meets the 'multilayer' characteristic.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The standard name of the declared goods should be 'Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor' to avoid classification ambiguity caused by abbreviations. Brand Type: Fill in the brand of the capacitor; if there is no brand, fill in 'no brand,' which must be consistent with the product label. Model: Fill in the specific model or specification code used to distinguish multilayer ceramic capacitors of different capacitance, voltage, and size. Dielectric Material: Clearly state ceramic dielectric, and further specify the ceramic type (e.g., NP0, X7R, Y5V, etc.). Structure: State multilayer structure, typically formed by alternately stacking and firing ceramic dielectric layers and metal electrode layers. Rated Voltage: Fill in the rated working voltage of the capacitor in volts (V), which affects its application scenarios and classification determination. Capacitance: Fill in the nominal capacitance and unit (e.g., pF, nF, μF), which is the core parameter of the capacitor. Use: Describe the application field of the capacitor, such as consumer electronics, communication equipment, automotive electronics, etc. Product Name: Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor; Brand Type: No Brand; Model: GRM188R71H104KA93D; Dielectric Material: Ceramic (X7R); Structure: Multilayer; Rated Voltage: 50V; Capacitance: 100nF; Use: Used in filter circuits of consumer electronics products. Mistakenly classifying multilayer ceramic capacitors under 8532.23 (single-layer ceramic), ignoring the 'multilayer' structural characteristic. Failing to state 'fixed' capacitor during declaration, which may be mistaken as variable capacitors under 8532.30. Inconsistency between brand type and model entry, leading to customs questioning the authenticity of the product.
Product Name
The standard name of the declared goods should be 'Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor' to avoid classification ambiguity caused by abbreviations.
⚠️ Misreporting as 'ceramic capacitor' or 'chip capacitor,' failing to reflect the 'multilayer' and 'fixed' characteristics.
Brand Type
Fill in the brand of the capacitor; if there is no brand, fill in 'no brand,' which must be consistent with the product label.
⚠️ Mistaking the manufacturer name for the brand, or omitting the brand, leading to subsequent review issues.
Model
Fill in the specific model or specification code used to distinguish multilayer ceramic capacitors of different capacitance, voltage, and size.
⚠️ Incomplete model entry or use of internal codes that customs cannot identify.
Dielectric Material
Clearly state ceramic dielectric, and further specify the ceramic type (e.g., NP0, X7R, Y5V, etc.).
⚠️ Vaguely filling in 'ceramic' without distinguishing single-layer or multilayer, leading to classification errors.
Structure
State multilayer structure, typically formed by alternately stacking and firing ceramic dielectric layers and metal electrode layers.
⚠️ Omitting the 'multilayer' description, which may result in misclassification as single-layer ceramic capacitors.
Rated Voltage
Fill in the rated working voltage of the capacitor in volts (V), which affects its application scenarios and classification determination.
⚠️ Incorrect or omitted voltage value, which may affect customs judgment of product characteristics.
Capacitance
Fill in the nominal capacitance and unit (e.g., pF, nF, μF), which is the core parameter of the capacitor.
⚠️ Unit confusion, such as mistaking nF for μF, resulting in parameter errors.
Use
Describe the application field of the capacitor, such as consumer electronics, communication equipment, automotive electronics, etc.
⚠️ Overly broad use description, such as 'used in circuits,' lacking specificity.
Example： Product Name: Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor; Brand Type: No Brand; Model: GRM188R71H104KA93D; Dielectric Material: Ceramic (X7R); Structure: Multilayer; Rated Voltage: 50V; Capacitance: 100nF; Use: Used in filter circuits of consumer electronics products.
Common Mistakes：
Mistakenly classifying multilayer ceramic capacitors under 8532.23 (single-layer ceramic), ignoring the 'multilayer' structural characteristic.
Failing to state 'fixed' capacitor during declaration, which may be mistaken as variable capacitors under 8532.30.
Inconsistency between brand type and model entry, leading to customs questioning the authenticity of the product.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core basis for classification is the description of 8532.21 in the Import and Export Tariff and the HS Explanatory Notes: multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors. The following must all be satisfied: 1) the capacitor has a fixed capacitance value; 2) the dielectric is ceramic; 3) a multilayer laminated structure is used. None of the three can be absent. If it is single-layer ceramic, it is classified under 8532.23; if it is another ceramic dielectric fixed capacitor, it is classified under 8532.24. 853223 Single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors: Single-layer ceramic capacitors have only one layer of ceramic dielectric, while multilayer ceramic capacitors are formed by alternately stacking and firing multiple layers, resulting in smaller size and higher capacitance. The core difference lies in the number of structural layers. 853224 Other fixed capacitors with ceramic dielectric: This subheading covers ceramic dielectric fixed capacitors with non-multilayer structures, such as disc-type, tubular, and other single-layer or simple structures, which do not meet the definition of 'multilayer.' 853225 Fixed capacitors with paper or plastic dielectric: The dielectric material is different; paper or plastic dielectric capacitors are classified under this subheading, which is fundamentally different from ceramic dielectric. 853229 Other fixed capacitors: This is a residual subheading applicable to fixed capacitors not elsewhere specified, such as mica, glass dielectric, etc. Multilayer ceramic capacitors are already specifically named and are not classified here. 853230 Variable or adjustable capacitors: Variable capacitors have adjustable capacitance values, while multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors have fixed capacitance values, with different functions and working principles. Confirm whether the capacitor has a fixed capacitance value, rather than being variable or adjustable. Confirm whether the dielectric material is ceramic, rather than paper, plastic, electrolytic, etc. Confirm whether the structure is multilayer laminated, rather than single-layer or simple structure. Verify whether the model and specifications are consistent with the declared elements. Confirm whether it falls within the specifically named scope of 8532.21, avoiding misclassification into other subheadings.
Basis
The core basis for classification is the description of 8532.21 in the Import and Export Tariff and the HS Explanatory Notes: multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors. The following must all be satisfied: 1) the capacitor has a fixed capacitance value; 2) the dielectric is ceramic; 3) a multilayer laminated structure is used. None of the three can be absent. If it is single-layer ceramic, it is classified under 8532.23; if it is another ceramic dielectric fixed capacitor, it is classified under 8532.24.
Confused Codes：
853223 - Single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors
Single-layer ceramic capacitors have only one layer of ceramic dielectric, while multilayer ceramic capacitors are formed by alternately stacking and firing multiple layers, resulting in smaller size and higher capacitance. The core difference lies in the number of structural layers.
853224 - Other fixed capacitors with ceramic dielectric
This subheading covers ceramic dielectric fixed capacitors with non-multilayer structures, such as disc-type, tubular, and other single-layer or simple structures, which do not meet the definition of 'multilayer.'
853225 - Fixed capacitors with paper or plastic dielectric
The dielectric material is different; paper or plastic dielectric capacitors are classified under this subheading, which is fundamentally different from ceramic dielectric.
853229 - Other fixed capacitors
This is a residual subheading applicable to fixed capacitors not elsewhere specified, such as mica, glass dielectric, etc. Multilayer ceramic capacitors are already specifically named and are not classified here.
853230 - Variable or adjustable capacitors
Variable capacitors have adjustable capacitance values, while multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors have fixed capacitance values, with different functions and working principles.
Self-Check：
✓ Confirm whether the capacitor has a fixed capacitance value, rather than being variable or adjustable.
✓ Confirm whether the dielectric material is ceramic, rather than paper, plastic, electrolytic, etc.
✓ Confirm whether the structure is multilayer laminated, rather than single-layer or simple structure.
✓ Verify whether the model and specifications are consistent with the declared elements.
✓ Confirm whether it falls within the specifically named scope of 8532.21, avoiding misclassification into other subheadings.
❓ FAQ
How to determine whether a capacitor is a multilayer ceramic fixed capacitor? First check whether the capacitance value is fixed, then check whether the dielectric is ceramic, and finally check whether the structure is formed by alternately stacking and firing multiple layers of ceramic dielectric and metal electrodes. Common chip capacitors are mostly multilayer ceramic, while disc-type ceramic capacitors are usually single-layer. What is the difference in classification between multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors and single-layer ceramic capacitors? Multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors are classified under 8532.21, and single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors are classified under 8532.23. Both have ceramic dielectric, but the number of structural layers differs, and they must be strictly distinguished during classification. How to fill in brand type and model during declaration? For brand type, fill in the product brand; if there is no brand, fill in 'no brand.' For model, fill in the specific specification code, which should be consistent with the product label. Avoid mistaking the manufacturer name for the brand. If a multilayer ceramic capacitor is used in automotive electronics, does the classification change? Classification does not change based on use; it is still classified under 8532.21. However, the use should be truthfully declared to facilitate customs statistics and subsequent supervision. How to check the import tariff rate for 8532.21? Tariff rates are adjusted according to national policies. It is recommended to obtain real-time rates through the General Administration of Customs website, China International Trade Single Window, or the latest Import and Export Tariff, and avoid relying on outdated information. What are the common aliases for multilayer ceramic capacitors? Common aliases include MLCC, chip capacitor, ceramic capacitor, etc. However, the standard name 'Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor' should be used during declaration to avoid classification disputes caused by aliases. If a multilayer ceramic capacitor has leads, does it affect classification? No. Classification is based on dielectric material, structure, and fixed capacitance value. The lead form (SMD, through-hole) does not change its essential classification under 8532.21. What are the common review priorities for customs declaration of multilayer ceramic capacitors? The focus is on reviewing whether elements such as product name, model, dielectric material, structure, rated voltage, and capacitance are complete and accurate, and whether they are consistent with the actual goods. Avoid vague declarations that lead to classification errors.
Q: How to determine whether a capacitor is a multilayer ceramic fixed capacitor?
A: First check whether the capacitance value is fixed, then check whether the dielectric is ceramic, and finally check whether the structure is formed by alternately stacking and firing multiple layers of ceramic dielectric and metal electrodes. Common chip capacitors are mostly multilayer ceramic, while disc-type ceramic capacitors are usually single-layer.
Q: What is the difference in classification between multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors and single-layer ceramic capacitors?
A: Multilayer ceramic fixed capacitors are classified under 8532.21, and single-layer ceramic fixed capacitors are classified under 8532.23. Both have ceramic dielectric, but the number of structural layers differs, and they must be strictly distinguished during classification.
Q: How to fill in brand type and model during declaration?
A: For brand type, fill in the product brand; if there is no brand, fill in 'no brand.' For model, fill in the specific specification code, which should be consistent with the product label. Avoid mistaking the manufacturer name for the brand.
Q: If a multilayer ceramic capacitor is used in automotive electronics, does the classification change?
A: Classification does not change based on use; it is still classified under 8532.21. However, the use should be truthfully declared to facilitate customs statistics and subsequent supervision.
Q: How to check the import tariff rate for 8532.21?
A: Tariff rates are adjusted according to national policies. It is recommended to obtain real-time rates through the General Administration of Customs website, China International Trade Single Window, or the latest Import and Export Tariff, and avoid relying on outdated information.
Q: What are the common aliases for multilayer ceramic capacitors?
A: Common aliases include MLCC, chip capacitor, ceramic capacitor, etc. However, the standard name 'Multilayer Ceramic Fixed Capacitor' should be used during declaration to avoid classification disputes caused by aliases.
Q: If a multilayer ceramic capacitor has leads, does it affect classification?
A: No. Classification is based on dielectric material, structure, and fixed capacitance value. The lead form (SMD, through-hole) does not change its essential classification under 8532.21.
Q: What are the common review priorities for customs declaration of multilayer ceramic capacitors?
A: The focus is on reviewing whether elements such as product name, model, dielectric material, structure, rated voltage, and capacitance are complete and accurate, and whether they are consistent with the actual goods. Avoid vague declarations that lead to classification errors.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.