Import procedures for SRD modules

SRD MODULE · ICT / SHORT RANGE RADIO DEVICE

Import procedures for SRD modules

An SRD module (Short Range Device module) is commonly imported as an embedded radio module for IoT devices, sensors, remote control equipment, telemetry, electronic locks, industrial devices or low-power data transmission equipment. The key risk is not the word “module”, but the operating frequency, transmission power, antenna type, transceiver function and test documentation. A generic goods description may lead to incorrect HS Code, missing ICT conformity dossiers, incorrect labeling, loss of C/O preferential duty or DEM/DET cost. This article provides an E2E (End-to-End) checklist covering HS code, tax, specialized policy, customs dossier, clearance process and risks to block before ETA.

QUICK FACT

ItemQuick reviewControl point
Product scopeSRD module used for short-range radio data transmission, remote control, telemetry or low-power device connectivity.Do not automatically apply this conclusion to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC modules or complete devices with different specifications.
Reference HS code8517.62.59 for other wireless data receiving, converting and transmitting equipment/modules; 8517.79.99 if the goods are only parts without an independent transceiver function.Confirm based on completed function, construction, import condition and technical documents.
Tax proposalReference MFN 0%; reference ordinary duty 5%; VAT control scenario 10%; FTA may be 0% if C/O is valid.Do not finalize cost without checking the tariff schedule at the declaration date.
Specialized policyMay fall under ICT group-2 / short-range radio device control, requiring conformity certification/declaration, test reports and permitted frequency review.Pay special attention to SRD, LPWAN, LoRa, sub-GHz, 40–246 GHz and external/integrated antenna.
LabelingOriginal label and Vietnamese supplementary label for circulation; conformity mark if applicable.Goods name, model, origin, manufacturer and technical parameters must match the dossier.
Illustration for Import procedures for SRD modules
Illustration of the product group and document review before customs clearance.
Legal note: This content is for operational reference. The actual shipment must be reviewed against the catalogue, datasheet, model, frequency band, transmission power, antenna type, software/firmware, import purpose and policy effective at the customs declaration date.

SCOPE OF APPLICATION

Applicable to:
SRD modules imported as short-range radio modules or circuit boards for IoT, sensors, remote control, telemetry, low-power data transmission or industrial equipment.
Not automatically applicable to:
Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth modules, Zigbee modules, NFC modules, complete gateways, access points, routers, LPWAN gateways or devices integrating multiple radio standards if the catalogue shows different functions.
Goods condition:
New goods, samples, warranty replacements, project goods, refurbished or used goods may require different documentation treatment.
Items requiring separate review:
Frequency band, transmission power, modulation type, antenna type, firmware, encryption/security functions, battery, adapter, development kit and accessories.

CLASSIFICATION & TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION

An SRD module should be identified by technical configuration rather than commercial name only. The minimum documents should include catalogue, datasheet, user manual, test report, actual photos, original label, model list and application description. A generic name such as “electronic module” or “wireless module” may cause incorrect HS classification, specialized policy, QCVN/TCVN compliance and labeling.

Criterion to checkDocuments to compareRisk if described incorrectlySuggested goods description
Operating frequency bandDatasheet, RF test report, declaration of conformityConfusion with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Zigbee/NFC or other telecom devices.SRD module, model…, frequency band…, for short-range data transmission.
Transmission power and modulationRF specification, test report, user manualIncorrect technical regulation and additional testing requests.State transmission power and modulation standard where available.
Antenna typeDatasheet, photos, module diagramExternal antenna modules may require different review from integrated antenna modules.SRD transceiver module with integrated/external antenna interface.
Completed functionCatalogue, BOM, application noteConfusion between complete equipment and parts.If it is a part: “module/part for integration into…”.
Goods conditionInvoice, packing list, photos, contractUsed/refurbished goods may be detained for verification.New SRD module, unused, model…, manufacturer…

HS CODE – DUTY – C/O

The HS code must be determined based on transceiver/data transmission function, module construction and import condition. If the module has an independent radio transceiver function, heading 8517.62 is a key review direction. If it is only a part without completed function, the corresponding parts heading must be reviewed. C/O (Certificate of Origin) provides preferential duty only when the form, origin criterion, goods description, HS code and transport requirements under the relevant FTA are valid.

Reference HS codeCondition of applicationRisk if misclassifiedDocuments to compare
8517.62.59Other wireless data receiving, converting, transmitting equipment/modules with SRD function under the datasheet.Wrong HS if the goods are actually Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Zigbee/NFC modules or another complete device.Datasheet, catalogue, RF test report, module diagram, photos, model list.
8517.79.99Only when the goods are parts/components of telecom equipment without independent transceiver function.Incorrect duty/policy if the module is still a complete transceiver.BOM, function description, assembly documents, manufacturer confirmation.
Other code subject to actual configurationWhen the module has special functions or is imported with complete equipment.May trigger different specialized policy.Catalogue, import purpose, kit configuration, accessories.

PROPOSED TAX TABLE

Tax itemReference rateCondition of applicationPre-ETA control point
MFN import dutyReference 0% for HS 8517.62.59 / relevant data transmission equipment line.Applicable when the origin is eligible for MFN and HS code is confirmed.Check Decree 26/2023/ND-CP and amendments at declaration date.
Ordinary import dutyReference 5% when MFN/FTA is not applicable.Applied under Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg or the current ordinary tariff schedule.Do not finalize cost before checking the 8-digit HS code.
VAT10% as a safe control scenario.VAT reduction, if any, must be checked against exclusion appendices; ICT/transmission devices need careful review.Review Decree 174/2025/ND-CP and relevant appendices.
Special preferential duty under C/OMay be 0% or an FTA preferential rate.Valid C/O, correct form, origin criterion, description and HS code.Review Form E/D/AK/VJ/VC/EUR.1 or relevant C/O before ETA.

SPECIALIZED POLICY MATRIX

Goods situationPossible policyDocuments to checkAuthority/portal if identifiableRecommended timingRisk note
Standard SRD moduleReview ICT group-2, conformity certification/declaration if listed.Catalogue, datasheet, test report, model list.Public service portal / competent ICT-telecom authority.Before ETA.Do not conclude exemption without frequency and power details.
LPWAN/LoRa/sub-GHz moduleMay fall under LPWAN or SRD technical regulations by frequency band.RF test report, frequency plan, antenna specification.Designated/accredited testing body and competent authority.Before purchase or before ETA.Wrong band may prevent circulation.
SRD 40–246 GHzReview QCVN 123:2021/BTTTT under Circular 10/2021/TT-BTTTT if within scope.Test report under relevant ETSI/technical standard, datasheet.Specialized regulator and testing body.Before ETA.Confirm 61/122/244 GHz bands if applicable.
Encryption/security functionMay require civil cryptography or cybersecurity review if the model/function is listed.Security datasheet, firmware, encryption description, VPN/secure element features.Relevant specialized authority if applicable.Before import.Do not assign this policy automatically; review actual dossier.
Sample/R&D/project goodsDocumentation may differ from commercial circulation goods.PO, contract, import purpose, internal-use undertaking if any.Customs and specialized authority as needed.Before ETA.Do not assume exemption if goods will later circulate in the market.
Used/refurbished goodsReview used-goods import conditions and possible verification.Photos, serial list, year of manufacture, goods condition.Customs/specialized authority if triggered.Before purchase.High detention risk if description is unclear.

LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW

Document groupDocument name/numberIssuing authorityEffective timingRole in the procedureKey appendix/clause if anyReview note
TariffDecree 26/2023/ND-CP and amendmentsGovernmentFrom 15 July 2023; check current amendmentsBasis for MFN duty by HS code.Chapter 85 tariff linesDo not finalize tax without 8-digit HS confirmation.
Ordinary dutyDecision 15/2023/QD-TTgPrime MinisterFrom 15 July 2023Basis for ordinary duty.Ordinary tariff listUsed when MFN/FTA is not applicable.
VATDecree 174/2025/ND-CPGovernmentFrom 01 July 2025Review VAT reduction and exclusions.Relevant appendicesICT devices need careful checking.
LabelingDecree 43/2017/ND-CP; Decree 111/2021/ND-CPGovernment01 June 2017; amendments from 15 February 2022Basis for original label and Vietnamese supplementary label.Mandatory label contentsModel, origin and manufacturer must match the dossier.
ICT/telecomCircular 29/2025/TT-BKHCNMinistry of Science and TechnologyFrom 31 December 2025List of potentially unsafe ICT/telecom goods.Product list appendicesReview HS, description and applicable QCVN.
SRD QCVNCircular 10/2021/TT-BTTTT issuing QCVN 123:2021/BTTTTMinistry of Information and CommunicationsFrom 01 July 2022Technical regulation for SRD in 40–246 GHz band if within scope.Scope and appendicesNot automatically applicable to all SRD; check frequency band.
LPWANCircular 38/2020/TT-BTTTT issuing LPWAN 920–923 MHz QCVNMinistry of Information and CommunicationsFrom 01 July 2021Review LPWAN modules in 920–923 MHz band.Scope and test methodsOnly applicable if the model falls within the specified band and scope.

VIEW / DOWNLOAD ORIGINAL LEGAL DOCUMENTS

Enterprises may search by document number on official legal document portals, the Government portal or the issuing authority’s website. Enterprises should cross-check with official legal portals or the issuing authority’s website before applying any regulation.

CUSTOMS DOSSIER

Commercial documents

  • Commercial Invoice.
  • Packing List.
  • Bill of Lading/Air Waybill.
  • Sales Contract/Purchase Order if any.
  • C/O if preferential duty is claimed.
  • Catalogue, datasheet, product photos, original label and model list.

Specialized documents if applicable

  • Quality inspection registration if listed.
  • Conformity certification/declaration.
  • RF test report, EMC/Safety report if required.
  • Labeling dossier and conformity mark.
  • Technical dossier on frequency, power and antenna.
  • Civil cryptography/cybersecurity dossier if the model/function is listed.
Dossier groupRequired documentUsed forPrepared byCommon errorPre-ETA check
CommercialInvoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, contract/PODeclaration, value and quantity verificationImporter, shipper, forwarderIncorrect goods name, model, quantity, originCompare each line with catalogue and original label.
TechnicalCatalogue, datasheet, user manual, model listHS and specialized policy reviewManufacturer, procurement, complianceMissing frequency/power/antenna detailsRequest full datasheet before arrival.
ConformityTest report, conformity certificate/declaration if applicableClearance/circulation after importCompliance team, testing bodyReport not matching model or standardCheck model and hardware/firmware version.
OriginRelevant C/O formFTA duty preferenceShipper, exporterWrong HS, description or origin criterionPre-check draft C/O against invoice and declaration.
LabelOriginal label, Vietnamese supplementary label, conformity mark if applicableMarket circulationImporter, warehouse, complianceMissing manufacturer, origin, modelPrepare label content before delivery.

DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT

Decision pointQuestion to answerEvidenceConsequence if unclearRecommended handling
HS CodeIs the module an independent transceiver or only a part?Datasheet, module diagram, test reportExplanation request, channel inspection or tax adjustment.Finalize HS before ETA with technical dossier.
Frequency/powerDoes it fall under SRD/LPWAN/QCVN control?RF specification, test reportSpecialized dossier request.Obtain full RF specifications from manufacturer.
Model consistencyDo invoice, packing list, catalogue and test report share the same model?Model list, original labelConformity dossier may be rejected.Standardize model names before documents are issued.
C/OIs the form, description and HS correct?C/O, invoice, B/LLoss of preferential duty.Pre-check draft C/O before ETA.
Label/conformityIs supplementary label or conformity mark required?Original label, conformity documentsGoods may not be eligible for circulation.Prepare label and conformity plan before arrival.

PRACTICAL E2E PROCESS

Step 1 – Pre-ETA review: finalize HS, policy, tax, C/O, label, frequency, power, new/used status and possible conformity dossier.
Step 2 – Lock documents & technical files: finalize Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, model list, test report and original label.
Step 3 – Specialized registration if applicable: prepare quality inspection, conformity certification/declaration, test report and label dossier before arrival.
Step 4 – Customs declaration: manage Green/Yellow/Red channel, customs value, HS, goods name, model, C/O, catalogue and specialized policy.
Step 5 – Clearance & post-clearance control: deliver goods, affix label/conformity mark if applicable, archive shipment dossier and prepare post-clearance explanation files.

PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST

RiskConsequencePre-ETA blocking actionDocument to check
Generic goods nameWrong HS and policy.State SRD module, frequency, power and model.Invoice, packing list, datasheet.
Missing RF test reportInsufficient conformity/explanation basis.Request model-specific test report before arrival.RF test report, DoC, datasheet.
Model mismatchDocument supplement request or rejection of C/O/conformity dossier.Use one model list for all documents.Invoice, catalogue, label, test report.
Wrong C/O form or HSNo FTA duty preference.Pre-check draft C/O before ETA.C/O, invoice, B/L.
Unclear used/refurbished statusDetention for verification or ineligibility.Confirm condition in contract and invoice.Contract, photos, serial list.
No supplementary label/conformity planDelay in circulation after clearance.Prepare label and marking plan before arrival.Original label, conformity dossier.

FAQ

Does importing an SRD module require a permit?
No absolute conclusion should be made. Frequency, power, transceiver function and the effective specialized list must be reviewed.
Is conformity certification/declaration required?
It may be required if the model is listed as ICT/telecom group-2 goods or falls within an applicable QCVN.
Which HS code is used for SRD modules?
8517.62.59 is a reference direction for wireless data transceiver modules; 8517.79.99 may be reviewed for incomplete parts.
Can C/O reduce duty?
Yes, where the relevant FTA grants preference and the C/O is valid in form, origin criterion, description, HS code and transport requirements.
Are samples/R&D goods processed like commercial goods?
The declared purpose may differ, but HS, specialized policy and circulation conditions still need review.
What if the invoice model differs from the test report?
Request document correction or model equivalence confirmation before customs declaration.
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