Speaker import procedure

Are you looking for the latest information on speaker import procedures to prepare for your 2025 business plan? Regulations on the import and export of electronic devices are always subject to important changes and updates. Don’t let complicated procedures delay your shipment! Hai Dang Logistics, with solid experience, will give you a comprehensive view of the Latest Speaker Import Process & Procedures 2025, helping all shipments to clear customs smoothly and efficiently

speaker-import-procedure

Legal policies on importing speakers into Vietnam

When carrying out procedures for importing speakers or any other items, understanding the relevant legal policies is a key factor to help businesses avoid risks and ensure a smooth customs clearance process. For audio speakers, the current regulations are clearly reflected in the important legal documents that Hai Dang Logistics has updated the latest for 2025:

  • Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC (dated 25/3/2015) and Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC (dated 20/04/2018) of the Ministry of Finance, guiding customs procedures.
  • Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP (dated 15/05/2018) of the Government, detailing a number of articles of the Law on Foreign Trade Management.
  • Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP (dated 14/4/2017) of the Government, regulating goods labels.
  • Decree 128/2020/ND-CP (dated 19/10/2020) of the Government, stipulating penalties for administrative violations in the field of customs.
  • Circular No. 18/2022/TT-BTTTT (dated 29/11/2022) and Circular No. 04/2023/TT-BTTTT (dated 31/05/2023) of the Ministry of Information and Communications, regulating the quality management of information and communication technology products.

According to the above documents, sound speakers are not on the list of goods banned from import. However, to ensure that the import process takes place in accordance with the law and effectively, businesses need to pay special attention to the following points:

  • Used electronic goods: Absolutely not imported. Used audio speakers are on the list of prohibited imports, deliberate violations can lead to strict sanctions.
  • Bluetooth (wireless) speakers: It is mandatory to carry out quality inspection according to the provisions of Circular 18/2022/TT-BTTTT of the Ministry of Information and Communications. This is an important requirement to ensure product safety and quality before being put on the market.
  • Labeling of goods: Imported speakers need to strictly comply with the regulations on labeling according to Decree 43/2017/ND-CP. The label must be fully informative in Vietnamese and affixed to the correct specifications.
  • Determine the correct HS Code: This not only helps you calculate the correct taxes (import tax, VAT) but also avoids unnecessary penalties due to errors in the classification of goods.

Strict compliance with these regulations not only helps the speaker import procedure to take place smoothly and quickly, but also protects businesses from legal risks, contributing to building a reputation in the market.

HS code and import tax of the speaker

In the process of importing loudspeakers, accurately determining the HS code and understanding the applicable taxes are two key factors to help businesses optimize costs and avoid legal risks. As an SEO specialist of Hai Dang Logistics, I will explain these aspects in detail.

HS Code of Speakers: Commodity Classification Platform

HS (Harmonized System) is an international classification system for goods, widely used globally to standardize the description and coding of products in international trade. Although countries can add the last digits for detailing, the first 6 digits of the HS code for the same product will usually be uniform across the globe.

To make it easier for you to look up, here is a table of popular HS codes for speakers that Hai Dang Logistics would like to share. However, determining the most accurate HS code should be based on the specific specification, power, and functionality of each type of speaker:

STT Description of goods Reference HS Code Notes
1 Speakers and sound amplifiers (except those that can be installed in the vehicle) 8518.21.00 Single speaker, one frequency band.
2 Multi-band speakers (such as 2-way, 3-way speakers) 8518.22.00 The speaker has multiple sub-speakers (treble, mid, bass) in one barrel.
3 Speaker systems (e.g., 5.1 speaker sets, home theater systems) 8518.29.00 Includes speakers and accompanying devices that form the system.
4 Bluetooth Speaker (wireless) 8518.29.00 Often classified as another group of speakers, it is necessary to carefully check the main function.
5 Speaker parts and accessories 8518.90.00 Drivers, magnets, enclosures, etc.

Important: The table above is for reference only. To ensure absolute accuracy and avoid tax risks, it is recommended to provide detailed technical documentation of the product to the customs authorities or consult with a classification expert.

speaker-import-procedure

Import tax on speakers (wired, Bluetooth) when carrying out procedures for importing speakers

When carrying out procedures for importing audio speakers, tax obligations are mandatory responsibilities that the importer must complete. Goods are cleared only after these taxes have been paid in full.

The main taxes that apply to imported speakers include:

  • Import Duty: Calculated based on the dutiable value of the goods and the tax rate applicable to the corresponding HS code.
    • Formula: Import tax = CIF Value (Cost, Insurance, Freight) x % tax rate.
    • CIF value: The total value of goods at the first border gate of import of Vietnam, including the purchase price, insurance costs and international freight to the first port/airport.
  • Import VAT: 10% is usually applied to most items.
    • Formula: Import VAT = (CIF Value + Import Tax) x % VAT rate.

The import tax rate of audio speakers depends greatly on the HS code and especially the certificate of origin (C/O) of the shipment:

  • Preferential Tax Rate (MFN): This is the basic tax rate applied to goods from countries/territories that have normal trade relations with Vietnam (for example, from China, the United States if there is no special preferential C/O).
  • Special preferential tax rates (FTA Tax Rates): If the speaker is imported from countries that have signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Vietnam and has a valid certificate of origin (C/O), the business can enjoy a special preferential tax rate, usually 0% or very low. This significantly reduces the cost of imports.
    • For example, if you import speakers from ASEAN countries (with C/O form D), Korea (with C/O form AK/KV), Japan (with C/O form AJ/JV), or China (with C/O form E),… enterprises need to submit C/O to enjoy incentives.

Identifying the correct HS code and preparing sufficient documents of origin is extremely important to optimize tax costs and ensure that the customs clearance process takes place effectively.

speaker-import-procedure

Documents required when carrying out procedures for importing loudspeakers

To ensure a smooth customs clearance process, the preparation of a complete and accurate set of documents is an indispensable step in the procedure for importing loudspeakers. These documents are detailed in Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC and Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC of the Ministry of Finance.

Here are the important documents that businesses need to have in the speaker import dossier:

  • Customs declaration: The  electronic version has been successfully declared and transmitted on the system.
  • Sales Contract: Proof of a sale transaction between the importer and the exporter.
  • Commercial Invoice: Details of the value of the goods and payment terms.
  • Packing List: Lists in detail the quantity, weight, and packaging of each package.
  • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: A document of carriage of goods, confirming that the goods have been dispatched.
  • Certificate of Origin (C/O): Not required, but if you have a valid C/O from a country that has a free trade agreement with Vietnam, you will enjoy a special preferential tax rate (usually 0%), which significantly reduces import costs.
  • Certificate of quality inspection or Certificate of conformity: Mandatory application for Bluetooth (wireless) speakers according to the regulations of the Ministry of Information and Communications.
  • Catalogue and technical documents of products: Help customs authorities and specialized inspection agencies easily determine the characteristics and functions of loudspeakers, serving the classification of HS codes and quality inspection.
  • Other documents: Depending on the specific requirements of the customs office or the specific nature of the shipment.

Among the above documents, customs declarations, commercial invoices, and bills of lading are the three basic and mandatory documents for every import shipment. Missing or misleading information on any document can lead to delays or unexpected costs incurred during customs clearance.

Detailed procedure for importing loudspeakers

The process of carrying out procedures for importing speakers in particular and other electronic devices in general is specifically guided in Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC (amended and supplemented by Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC). Hai Dang Logistics will summarize the main steps for you to easily visualize and prepare:

Step 1: Prepare Documents & E-Customs Declaration

  • Collect all necessary documents: Sales Contract, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading/Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin (C/O – if any), notification of arrival from the shipping line/airline, and especially accurately determine the HS code of the audio speaker.
  • Enter the declared information into the e-customs system through specialized software (e.g. VNACCS/VCIS).

Step 2: Open a Customs Declaration

  • After transmitting the declaration, the customs system will automatically respond to the results of the declaration channeling (Green, Yellow, or Red channel).
  • The enterprise prints the declaration and brings the import dossier to the sub-department of customs where it is registered to take steps to open the declaration and compare documents (for the Yellow channel) or physically inspect the goods (for the Red channel).

Step 3: Customs clearance of goods

  • Customs officers will check the dossier and/or physically inspect the goods. If there are no problems and all requirements have been met, the declaration will be accepted for customs clearance.
  • Enterprises shall fully pay taxes (import tax, VAT) and customs fees as prescribed to fulfill financial obligations.

Step 4: Shipping & Using Goods

  • After the declaration is cleared, the enterprise carries out procedures for liquidation of the declaration and arranges means to transport goods from the port/airport to its warehouse.

For specific types of speakers such as wireless Bluetooth speakers, additional mandatory quality checks are required. Goods are only fully cleared after obtaining a valid quality certificate from the authorities.

Wireless Speaker Quality Inspection Process when Importing Speakers

Wireless speakers, especially Bluetooth speakers with a frequency range of 25 MHz to 2000 MHz, are products under the specialized management of the Ministry of Information and Communications (Ministry of Information and Communications). Therefore, when carrying out the procedure for importing wireless speakers, the importer is required to register for quality inspection.

Step 1: Prepare the Quality Inspection Registration Dossier

  • Required documents include: Commercial Contract, Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Packing List, Copy of Customs Declaration (registered), Certificate of Origin (C/O), Certificate of Quality (C/Q) or Test Report from the foreign manufacturer (if any).
  • In addition, it is necessary to fill in all information in the application form for quality inspection of imported goods as prescribed.

Step 2: Submit Application and Register

  • The importer shall submit a dossier of registration for quality inspection at the competent agency designated by the Ministry of Information and Communications.
  • After the dossier is received and valid, the inspecting agency will issue a certificate of registration for quality inspection. This paper is required so that you can proceed to the next steps in the speaker import procedure.

Step 3: Sampling and Inspection of Actual Goods

For products under the Ministry of Information and Communications, the product samples will be sent to designated Inspection Centers (e.g. Technical Center of the Radio Frequency Authority or other units recognized by the Ministry of Information and Communications) to conduct testing of technical indicators related to frequency,  capacity, radiation safety…

Step 4: Notification of Results & Issuance of Certificates

  • After the inspection process, the authorities will notify the results in writing.
  • If the goods meet the requirements of quality and technical standards, a certificate confirming that the goods meet the standards will be issued. This deed is an important legal basis for you to complete the procedure for importing the speaker and the shipment is cleared from customs.

Labeling Goods When Importing Loudspeakers: Regulations and Risks

The labeling of imported goods is a mandatory legal requirement and has been strictly regulated, especially since the introduction of Decree 128/2020/ND-CP on sanctioning administrative violations in the field of customs. The main purpose of labeling is to strengthen state management, transparency of product information, clearly identify the origin and responsibilities of stakeholders.

Contents of Speaker Labels in Speaker Import Procedures

According to the provisions of Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP, the label of the imported speaker needs to include the following basic information, expressed in Vietnamese or English (for imported goods without Vietnamese sub-label):

  • Merchandise Name: For example, “Audio Speaker”, “Bluetooth Speaker”, “Speaker System”.
  • Name and address of the organization or individual responsible for goods in Vietnam: Usually the name and address of the importer.
  • Origin of goods: Specify the country of manufacture (e.g. “Made in China”, “Made in Vietnam”,…).
  • Information about the exporter (if any): Name and address of the manufacturer/exporter.
  • Basic specifications: Model, power, frequency range, voltage used, size, serial number (if any),…
  • Year of manufacture.
  • Safety warnings (if applicable): Safety instructions for use, special precautions.
  • Language: You can use English or the language of the original exporting country. However, if the speaker product is sold to the Vietnamese market, it is mandatory to have a sub-label in Vietnamese showing all the necessary information. Hai Dang Logistics recommends that you prioritize using Vietnamese or English to ensure clarity and compliance.

Labeling Placement on the Speaker

Labels need to be affixed or printed in a highly visible, hard-to-erase location on the packaging of goods or directly on the product. Typically, the label will be placed on:

  • The carton containing the product.
  • Wooden bales (for large shipments).
  • Directly on the speaker body (if appropriate and does not compromise aesthetics/functionality).

Labeling in a reasonable position not only makes it easy for customs authorities to inspect, but also facilitates the process of warehouse management and circulation of goods.

Risks of not labeling in accordance with regulations

If the imported goods do not comply with the labeling regulations, the importer may face the following unfortunate risks and sanctions:

  • Administrative sanctions: According to the provisions of Decree 128/2020/ND-CP, enterprises may be fined and forced to remedy the consequences if they violate the regulations on goods labels.
  • Not eligible for tax incentives: If the information on origin is unclear or does not have a valid label, businesses may not be entitled to special preferential tax rates, leading to an increase in import costs.
  • Goods are temporarily seized, returned or not cleared from customs: In serious cases, customs authorities may request re-export, forcibly destroy or not allow customs clearance of shipments, causing great economic and time losses to businesses.

To avoid these risks, businesses need to pay special attention to labeling and always update the latest regulations on import labels when carrying out procedures for importing loudspeakers.

Important Notes When Importing Speakers

To ensure that the process of importing loudspeakers takes place effectively, quickly and in compliance with the law, businesses need to pay special attention to the following important points:

  • Ensuring Product Origin & Quality: Prioritize the selection of reputable suppliers with a clear history, and commitment to product quality. This not only affects business reputation but is also directly related to quality inspection regulations in Vietnam.
  • Fully comply with Tax Regulations: Understand the applicable taxes (import tax, VAT), how to calculate and pay taxes. This helps avoid late payment penalties and ensures that goods are cleared on time.
  • Accurate identification of HS Codes: This is a key factor affecting tax rates and specialized inspection requirements. Please provide full technical information of the speaker to look up the HS code in the most accurate way, or consult an expert.
  • Prepare complete documents and documents: Thoroughly review the import dossier according to the checklist stated. Any omissions or misrepresentations may cause significant delays.
  • Special Note for Wireless Speakers: For wireless Bluetooth speakers, it is necessary to understand the regulations on the operating frequency range (from 25 MHz to 2000 MHz) and be prepared for the mandatory quality inspection process of the Ministry of Information and Communications. Goods are only cleared after obtaining an inspection certificate.
  • Strictly comply with the Regulations on Labeling of Goods: Labels must have full information in Vietnamese or have Vietnamese sub-labels according to Decree 43/2017/ND-CP and Decree 128/2020/ND-CP. The labeling location must be clear and easy to see.
  • Careful storage of documents: All dossiers and documents related to the shipment need to be carefully kept to serve the post-clearance inspection of customs offices or other authorities.

Complying with the above notes will help businesses import speakers efficiently, safely and legally, thereby optimizing the supply chain and developing their business.

Mastering the procedures for importing loudspeakers not only helps businesses comply with the law but also optimizes costs and shortens customs clearance time. From HS codes, tax policies, quality inspection procedures to labeling considerations, every step is important for your shipment to reach its destination safely. If you need professional assistance to simplify this complicated speaker import process, don’t hesitate to contact Hai Dang Logistics right away. We are always ready to bring a comprehensive logistics solution to your business!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *