Determine the proper HS classification for your tablet or display screen
The HS code is a standardized system used by customs officials to classify and assess duties on imported goods. To determine the correct HS code for your tablet or display screen, you can refer to the HS database or consult an import-export specialist.
Obtain FCC certification to avoid customs and risks. If your tablet or display screen emits radio frequency (RF) energy or has wireless functionality, it must be certified by the FCC. This process involves submitting form 740 to the FCC, listing relevant information such as the product's trade name, model type, and commercial description, as well as having the device tested and certified at an authorized testing facility.
Comply with FDA regulations. If your tablet or display screen is intended for use in medical or diagnostic applications, it must be registered with the FDA and meet certain safety and performance standards. This may involve submitting a premarket notification (510(k)) or a premarket approval application, depending on the specific characteristics of the device.
FCC Certification
Follow other import requirements. In addition to FCC and FDA regulations, tablets and display screens are also subject to other important requirements such as customs bonds (required for goods valued over $2,500), country-of-origin labeling, and flammability standards. Be sure to check with the relevant government agencies and trade experts to ensure that you are meeting all the requirements.
To import and sell tablets in the US, the tablets must go through the FCC certification process. This process involves submitting the tablets for testing at an FCC-authorized lab and then submitting the testing results and device specifications, along with the proper labels, to the FCC for approval.
The tablets will need to be labeled with a compliance label and an FCC ID, which can be obtained using a grantee code and a product code. Consumers do not need an FCC license to use tablets, as they are classified as "non-licensed, low-power transmitters."
FDA Regulations
Tablets and screens are also subject to regulation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because they contain lasers, LED, or Intense Pulsed Lights which emit potentially harmful radiation. Manufacturers and importers of these products must test and certify that they meet FDA standards, although the FDA does not technically approve these products.
Some products, such as medical devices, will require importers to submit reports through the FDA's eSubmitter site, and the FDA will issue an accession number to certify that the product can be marketed commercially.
Importers must also submit a Form FDA 2877 with the accession number and importing paperwork to Customs and the FDA imports office when their shipment arrives in the US. As long as the products are labeled and certified properly and the necessary paperwork is in order, the importing process should proceed smoothly.
Flat panel screens using Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) or plasma displays do not emit potentially harmful radiation, so they are not subject to FDA regulation. Only tablets and screens that contain lasers, LED, or Intense Pulsed Lights are subject to FDA regulation because they emit potentially harmful radiation.