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ICT & TELECOM EQUIPMENT · MODEM
IMPORT PROCEDURE GUIDE FOR MODEMS
For modem imports, the key risk is not the trade name but the technical nature of the device: wired modem, Wi‑Fi modem, 4G/5G modem, gateway or CPE. Incorrect HS classification, missing conformity documents, inconsistent model information or improper C/O handling may trigger customs inspection, additional compliance dossiers, loss of preferential treatment and unplanned DEM/DET. This guide provides an E2E map for HS code, duty, VAT, sectoral policy, customs documents and pre‑ETA controls.
QUICK FACT TABLE
| Control item | Application to modem |
|---|---|
| Product controlled | Imported modem only; not automatically applicable to router, access point, mesh, CPE or ONT/ONU. |
| Related product group | Data transmission/reception equipment under ICT and telecommunications equipment. |
| Reference HS code | 8517.62.41 for modems/cable modems/modem cards; Wi‑Fi/router/4G/5G gateway functions must be reviewed separately. |
| Sectoral policy | May fall under group-2 ICT/telecom goods requiring conformity certification/declaration depending on model and radio parameters. |
| Proposed tax view | MFN import duty 0%; ordinary duty reference 5%; VAT 10% basis or 8% if eligible under the valid VAT reduction policy. |
| Core risks | Wrong HS between pure modem and wireless/router device; missing test report; model mismatch; labeling risks. |
Legal note
This content is an operational review framework and is not an official classification ruling. The importer should verify the actual model, datasheet, purpose of import and valid regulations at declaration time.SCOPE OF APPLICATION
Applicable
Modems whose principal function is modulation/demodulation of data signals, including wired modems, cable modems, xDSL modems and modem cards.
Not automatically applicable
Routers, access points, mesh Wi‑Fi devices, CPE, ONT/ONU, gateways, firewalls and mobile-network terminals must be reviewed separately.
New, used, refurbished, sample, warranty, project, EPE/FDI or factory imports may trigger different policies. Wireless modules, encryption, adapter, battery and software license must be checked separately.
Review must be based on catalogue, datasheet, model and actual import purpose.
CLASSIFICATION & TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION
Principal function
Confirm whether the device is a pure modem or also performs routing, Wi‑Fi broadcasting, switching, firewall or mobile terminal functions.
Technical configuration
Review WAN/LAN/DSL/coaxial/USB/SIM/optical ports, DOCSIS/xDSL/LTE/5G standards and Wi‑Fi bands if any.
Condition & purpose
Identify new, used, refurbished, sample, warranty or project goods and the import purpose.
| Technical criterion | Document to check | Risk if wrongly described | Suggested goods description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model and hardware version | Catalogue, datasheet, label, manufacturer website | Generic “network device” may trigger query | Data modem, model…, brand…, for wired/wireless network connection per technical documents |
| Principal function | User manual, connection diagram | Confusion with router/AP/CPE/ONT | State modem/cable modem/xDSL modem/4G modem only if supported |
| Transmission standard and ports | Datasheet | Wrong HS or policy if optical/SIM/Wi‑Fi exists | Mention main interface/standard |
| Radio band and power | RF specs, test report | Missing conformity basis | Declare Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth/LTE/5G if any |
| Goods condition | Invoice, photos, serial list | Used/refurbished policy risk | Declare new or actual condition |
Operational warning
Generic names such as “network device” or “router modem” may lead to incorrect HS, wrong sectoral policy, QCVN/TCVN mismatch, licensing risk and labeling issues.HS CODE – DUTY – C/O
HS classification must follow the principal function, structure and technical documents. HS 8517.62.41 is only a reference for modem/cable modem/modem card.
REFERENCE HS CODE TABLE
| Reference HS code | Application condition | Risk if wrong | Documents to verify |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8517.62.41 | Modem/cable modem/modem card whose principal function is data signal modulation/demodulation, and which has not been identified as a router, access point, or independent wireless network device. | Incorrect HS classification may occur if the device has routing, Wi‑Fi, LTE/5G, or a primary gateway function. | Catalogue, datasheet, user manual, label photos, model list, and functional description on the manufacturer’s website. |
| 8517.62.51 or another code under heading 8517.62 | Only consider this when the modem has wireless LAN/Wi‑Fi functionality or the product is, in substance, a radio transceiver/router/access point. | Incorrect ICT conformity policy, incorrect tariff code, and possible explanation request under Yellow/Red customs channels. | Frequency-band specifications, transmission power, Wi‑Fi standard, connection diagram, and testing dossier. |
| Other codes outside 8517.62 | When the goods are in substance ONT/ONU, optical CPE, mobile network terminal equipment, a transmission module, or a specialized converter. | The reference HS code may be rejected, prolonging classification and customs clearance. | Detailed technical documents, operating principle, interface ports, principal function, and intended use. |
PROPOSED TAX TABLE
| HS code | Controlled description | Ordinary import duty | MFN duty | Proposed VAT | Special preferential duty with valid C/O | Application note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8517.62.41 | Modulators/demodulators (modems), including cable-connected and card-type modems. | 5% | 0% | Baseline 10%; review possible 8% VAT if the goods are not listed in the exclusion appendices of the VAT reduction policy at the time of importation. | May be 0% under many FTAs if the C/O is valid and the origin rules are satisfied. | Tariff rates must be reconfirmed against the applicable tariff schedule and VNACCS before customs declaration. |
| 8517.62.51 | Wireless LAN device – only when the product is in substance a Wi‑Fi device/access point/wireless router, not a pure modem. | 5% | 0% | Baseline 10%; review 8%/10% treatment against the exclusion appendices. | Depending on the C/O form and origin. | Do not use this as a substitute for a pure modem if the technical documents do not prove independent Wi‑Fi functionality. |
| Other code according to classification result | ONT/ONU, CPE, gateway, mobile network terminal equipment, or specialized transmission equipment. | According to the tariff schedule at the time of declaration. | According to the tariff schedule at the time of declaration. | According to the VAT policy at the time of importation. | According to the relevant agreement if a valid C/O is available. | Must be finalized based on the catalogue, model, principal function, and classification result. |
APPLICABLE SECTORAL POLICY
Modems are ICT/telecom equipment and may fall under group-2 goods. Wireless, Bluetooth, LTE/5G or other radio modules may change the compliance path.
| Goods situation | Possible policy | Documents to check | Authority/portal if determined | Recommended timing | Risk note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure wired modem | Review HS 8517.62.41, goods labeling, ordinary import conditions, and quality requirements if the product falls under the Group 2 list. | Catalogue, datasheet, original label, user manual, and model code. | Customs; specialized authority under the ICT list if applicable. | 5–7 working days before ETA. | Do not conclude conformity exemption until the model and applicable appendices have been fully checked. |
| Modem with Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth/SRD | May require conformity certification/declaration under the corresponding radio and ICT/telecom technical regulations. | Test report, frequency-band specifications, transmission power, Wi‑Fi standard, and label sample. | Ministry of Science and Technology/specialized public-service portal; designated certification/testing bodies. | Review before the shipment leaves the port of export. | The key risk is that the device integrates multiple radio modules while the dossier only describes it as a “modem”. |
| 4G/5G/LTE modem or mobile CPE | May fall under terminal/mobile network transceiver equipment; review licensing, conformity, frequency bands, and relevant technical regulations. | LTE/5G specifications, IMEI if any, radio module, and manufacturer certificates. | ICT/telecom management authority and Customs. | Before booking or before ETA. | Do not mechanically apply 8517.62.41 if the principal function is mobile network terminal equipment. |
| Modem with dedicated encryption/security/VPN functionality | May require additional review under civil cryptography or network information security policy if the product falls under the regulated list. | Security datasheet, encryption/VPN/firewall functions, model, and software license. | Government Cipher Committee/network information security authority if within scope. | Before signing the purchase contract. | Distinguish ordinary security functions from civil cryptography products listed for management. |
| Power adapter, battery, and included accessories | Review labeling, electrical safety, lithium battery transport, packing, and description of included items. | Packing list, battery MSDS if any, adapter specifications, and Vietnamese sub-label. | Customs, airline/carrier, and specialized authority if applicable. | Before transport booking. | Incorrect accessory description may affect policy treatment or transport cost. |
| Used/refurbished goods | Review regulations on used goods, equipment age, import purpose, and project conditions if any. | Contract, condition confirmation, year of manufacture, serial list, and actual photos. | Customs; line ministry if the goods fall under a restricted list. | Before purchasing the goods. | Do not assume these can be imported under the same conditions as new goods. |
LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW
| Document group | Document name/number | Issuing authority | Effective status/application time | Role in procedure | Article/appendix to note | Review note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law | Law on Customs 2014 | National Assembly | In force; amendments should be checked if any. | Legal basis for customs declaration, inspection, and supervision. | General rules on dossiers, inspection, and customs clearance of goods. | Generally applicable to import shipments. |
| Law | Law on Foreign Trade Management 2017 | National Assembly | In force; implementing documents should be checked. | Legal basis for management of prohibited, restricted, and conditional goods. | Check lists of goods prohibited/restricted from importation. | Important for used/refurbished goods or goods with special functions. |
| Decree | Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP | Government | Effective from 15 May 2018; amendments should be checked if any. | Provides detailed regulations for the Law on Foreign Trade Management. | Appendices on lists of prohibited, restricted, and conditional goods. | Do not self-conclude import eligibility for used or special-function goods. |
| Decree | Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP and Decree No. 111/2021/ND-CP | Government | Currently applied; timing of circulation should be checked. | Regulates goods labeling and Vietnamese sub-labels. | Mandatory contents on labels of imported goods. | Goods name, model, origin, and manufacturer must match the documents. |
| Circular | Circular No. 29/2025/TT-BKHCN | Ministry of Science and Technology | Issued on 13 November 2025; effective from 31 December 2025. | List of Group 2 products and goods in the ICT and telecommunications sector. | Appendices I/II and management principles under the corresponding technical regulations. | Current document to prioritize for modem/network device review after 31 December 2025. |
| Circular | Circular No. 02/2024/TT-BTTTT | Ministry of Information and Communications | Recorded as replaced; used for checking the period before the new document takes effect. | Former Group 2 ICT list. | Management principles for Group 2 goods and cases involving multiple integrated devices. | Do not rely on it alone for declarations made after the replacing document takes effect. |
| Tariff schedule | Current import-export tariff schedule; Decision No. 15/2023/QD-TTg on ordinary import duty rates | Government/Ministry of Finance | Must be checked at the time of customs declaration. | Determines MFN duty, ordinary duty, VAT, and FTA duty. | HS code 8517.62.41 and related codes. | Do not enter into the declaration until the latest tariff schedule is checked. |
VIEW / DOWNLOAD ORIGINAL LEGAL DOCUMENTS
Enterprises should cross-check the document number on the legal document portal, the Government portal or the issuing authority website before applying.
CUSTOMS CLEARANCE DOSSIER
| Dossier group | Required document | Used for | Prepared by | Common error | Pre-ETA check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial documents | Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Sales Contract/PO, Bill of Lading/AWB | Opening the declaration and determining customs value, quantity, and delivery terms. | Importer/Docs/Sales logistics | Goods name/model/quantity/unit price differs across documents. | Cross-check each model line, unit of measure, serial, and origin before ETA. |
| Origin documents | C/O when claiming preferential duty; self-certification where allowed by the agreement. | Applying FTA preferential duty. | Shipper/Exporter/Importer | Wrong form, origin criterion, goods description, or HS code. | Check the form, goods description box, origin criterion, and authorized signature/stamp. |
| Technical documents | Catalogue, datasheet, user manual, model list, and photos of original labels. | HS classification and sectoral policy determination. | Manufacturer/shipper/importer | Catalogue does not clearly show Wi‑Fi/4G/5G or routing functionality. | Request the official datasheet for the exact model. |
| Sectoral-policy dossier | Test report, conformity certificate, conformity declaration, testing dossier, and quality inspection registration if applicable. | Handling ICT/telecom policy requirements. | Compliance team/forwarder/certification body | Processing after ETA may lead to storage/demurrage/detention. | Finalize whether it is required or not before the goods arrive. |
| Goods labeling | Original label, Vietnamese sub-label content, manufacturer/origin/model information. | Circulation of goods and post-clearance audit. | Importer/Compliance | Label does not match Invoice/Catalogue/C/O. | Review label photos before shipment and prepare Vietnamese sub-label if required. |
DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT
| Decision point | Question to answer | Evidence | Consequence if unclear | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Is the HS code sufficiently supported? | Pure modem or wireless network device/router/CPE? | Catalogue, datasheet, user manual, and port photos. | May be routed for inspection or required to undergo classification analysis. | Finalize principal function and HS code before issuing the Invoice. |
| Does the model match across all documents? | Is the model consistent across Invoice, Packing List, C/O, catalogue, and label? | Commercial documents and technical dossier. | C/O preference may be denied or document amendment may be required. | Prepare a model checklist before ETA. |
| Does the product have a radio module? | Does it have Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth/SIM/LTE/5G/SRD? | RF specification, test report | Missing conformity certification/declaration or incorrect sectoral policy. | Do not rely solely on the trade name “modem”. |
| Does the product have special security functions? | Does it have dedicated encryption/VPN/firewall? | Security datasheet and software license. | Additional civil cryptography/network information security review may arise. | Separate ordinary security functions from products on regulated lists. |
| Is the product new or used? | 100% new, refurbished, or used? | Invoice, actual photos, serial list, and year of manufacture. | Clearance may be suspended if the goods fall under restricted categories. | Do not purchase/ship used goods before policy review. |
PRACTICAL E2E PROCESS
Step 1
Pre-ETA review: HS, policy, duty, C/O, label and conformity requirement.
Step 2
Lock commercial documents and technical documents.
Step 3
Handle sectoral compliance or conformity dossier if applicable.
Step 4
Open customs declaration and prepare for Green/Yellow/Red channel queries.
Step 5
Clear cargo, deliver inland, complete labeling/conformity and archive post-clearance dossier.
PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST
| Risk | Consequence | Pre-ETA prevention | Document to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overly generic goods description | Customs may not be able to distinguish a pure modem from a Wi‑Fi/router device and may request additional catalogue documents. | Describe the goods by function, model, connection standard, and condition. | Invoice, Packing List, catalogue, datasheet. |
| Wrong HS classification between 8517.62.41 and 8517.62.51 | Wrong duty, wrong sectoral policy, and C/O impact. | Finalize the principal function using technical documents before declaration. | Datasheet, user manual, product photos, and manufacturer description. |
| Missing conformity dossier/test report | Shipment may be held at port, causing storage/demurrage/detention. | Determine whether Wi‑Fi/4G/5G is present before the shipment leaves the port of export. | Test report and conformity certification/declaration if applicable. |
| C/O with wrong goods description or origin criterion | Preferential duty may be denied; additional duty payment or C/O amendment may be required. | Check the C/O draft before official issuance. | C/O, Invoice, Packing List, HS code, and origin criterion. |
| Vietnamese sub-label not reviewed | Risk during circulation and post-clearance audit. | Prepare Vietnamese sub-labels by model and manufacturer/origin information. | Original label photos, catalogue, and import documents. |
| Used/refurbished goods not identified early | May face import conditions, explanation request, or re-export requirement. | Review product condition from the sale contract stage. | Contract, invoice, actual photos, year of manufacture, and serial list. |
FAQ
Does modem import require a license?
It depends on model, functions, radio modules and applicable ICT/telecom group-2 lists.
Is a Wi‑Fi modem treated the same as a wired modem?
No. Wireless functions may trigger conformity certification/declaration and a different HS review.
Can HS 8517.62.41 be used for all modems?
No. It is a reference code for pure modems/cable modems/modem cards only.
Can C/O reduce duty?
Yes if form, origin criterion, description and HS are valid. MFN may already be 0% for some lines.
Is Vietnamese sub-label required?
It may be required for circulation in Vietnam and must match import documents.
Are sample/warranty goods the same as commercial goods?
Not automatically; import purpose and dossiers may differ.
NEED TO REVIEW IMPORT PROCEDURES OR A SHIPPING PLAN?
Send us the product name, shipping route, current dossier, or implementation request in advance so we can suggest a suitable approach that is practical, focused, and aligned with your shipment.
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