Tiếng Việt
中文 (中国)
MACHINERY • INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT • CONTROLLER
IMPORT PROCEDURES FOR INDUSTRIAL CONTROLLERS
Industrial controllers used with machinery may be misclassified if the goods are described only as controller or control unit without voltage, function, panel/cabinet configuration, PLC, motor controller, DCS or specialized-control details. Incorrect description may lead to wrong HS code, wrong duty, used-machinery policy issues, missing labeling file, or additional customs explanation. This article provides an E2E map for HS, duty, C/O, specialized policies, documents and pre-ETA risks.
QUICK FACT
| Item | Review content | Operational note |
|---|---|---|
| Commodity | Industrial controller integrated with machinery, such as control panel, programmable controller/PLC, motor controller, distributed control unit or controller installed in an electrical cabinet. | Applies only to controller; it does not automatically cover electric motors, inverters, complete electrical cabinets or ICT equipment. |
| Reference HS | Mainly 8537.10.xx if voltage is not exceeding 1,000V; consider 8537.20.xx if voltage exceeds 1,000V. | Verify catalogue, datasheet, voltage, control/distribution function and installed apparatus. |
| Reference duty | Common line 8537.10.99: MFN 15%, ordinary duty 22.5%, VAT 8%/10% depending on policy at declaration date. | Other 8-digit codes must be checked at declaration date and against C/O. |
| Key policies | Labeling, C/O, used-machinery rules where applicable, specialized inspection if explosion-proof/special equipment or wireless/encryption modules are present. | Do not conclude “no permit” without model and datasheet review. |
| Website category IDs | VI 2846 / EN 2874 / ZH 2876 | Final category under Import-export procedures by product. |
Legal note:Review catalogue, datasheet, model, voltage, import purpose, goods condition and actual function before concluding HS/policy.
SCOPE OF APPLICATION
Applies to
Controllers imported separately or with industrial machinery, used to control electrical/logic operation of machines, production lines or equipment assemblies.
Does not automatically apply to
Electric motors, inverters, complete distribution cabinets, telecom equipment, smart home hubs, SAN controllers or vehicle-specific controllers.
Requires separate review
Used goods, explosion-proof equipment, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/4G/5G modules, encryption functions, battery/adapter sets or project cargo.
Review according to catalogue, datasheet, model and actual import purpose.
CLASSIFICATION & TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION
The controller should be identified by control function, voltage, I/O configuration, installation form, attached modules and relationship with the main machine. Generic naming may lead to wrong HS, policy and labeling.
TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION CRITERIA
| Criteria | Documents to check | Risk if misdescribed | Suggested goods description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated voltage | Catalogue, datasheet, nameplate | Wrong distinction between ≤1,000V and > 1,000V | Industrial controller, input/output voltage 24VDC/220VAC |
| Control function | Manual, wiring diagram, I/O list | Confusion between PLC, motor controller, DCS, control panel or machine part | Programmable controller/PLC for industrial machine |
| Installation form | Product photos, drawing, panel layout | Confusion between standalone controller and complete electrical cabinet/panel | Control unit, mounted in machine cabinet |
| Attached modules | Datasheet, BOM, wireless specification | ICT/cybersecurity policy may arise if Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/4G/5G or encryption exists | Controller without wireless module / with Bluetooth module |
| Goods condition | Contract, photos, serial, year of manufacture | Used goods may trigger Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg | Brand new industrial controller, year of manufacture… |
HS CODE – DUTY – C/O
This section separates HS classification from tax impact so the importer can control landed cost by exact 8-digit code, C/O and declaration date.
REFERENCE HS CODE TABLE
| Reference HS code | Applicability | Risk if misclassified | Documents to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8537.10.12 | Control panel equipped with programmable processor, voltage not exceeding 1,000V. | Confusion with standalone PLC, DCS controller or controller installed in machinery. | Catalogue, datasheet, CPU/programming function, I/O, photo. |
| 8537.10.19 | Other switchboard/control panel, voltage not exceeding 1,000V. | Wrong if actually a distribution cabinet, inverter, PLC or specialized motor controller. | Panel layout, wiring diagram, component list. |
| 8537.10.30 | Programmable logic controller for automatic machines used for moving, handling or clamping molds for semiconductor devices. | Narrow code; use only when function and industry application match. | Datasheet, integration document, semiconductor equipment file. |
| 8537.10.40 | Motor controller with output voltage 24V to 120VDC and current 300A to 500A. | Confusion with inverter, servo drive or motor controller with different rating. | Electrical rating, output current, motor-control specification. |
| 8537.10.92 | Type suitable for distributed control systems, voltage not exceeding 1,000V. | Confusion with general PLC or other control panel. | DCS architecture, system diagram, controller module datasheet. |
| 8537.10.99 | Other controller/control or distribution apparatus, voltage not exceeding 1,000V. | Common fallback code but risky if goods are PLC/DCS/specialized motor controller. | Catalogue, wiring diagram, nameplate, invoice, packing list. |
| 8537.20.xx | Consider only if voltage exceeds 1,000V. | Wrong if voltage is not checked. | Nameplate, high-voltage technical spec. |
REFERENCE DUTY – VAT – C/O TABLE
8537.10.12
Reference MFNReference 5%.
Ordinary dutyReference 7.5% based on 150% of MFN.
VATBaseline 10%; review 8% only if a VAT reduction policy is valid at declaration date and the goods are not excluded.
C/O / FTASpecial preferential duty may apply if C/O is valid.
Landed cost noteFor control panels fitted with a programmable processor; match catalogue, CPU/programming function and I/O.
8537.10.19
Reference MFNCheck directly at declaration date; do not automatically use the rate of 8537.10.99.
Ordinary dutyOrdinary duty is determined by the corresponding MFN x 150%.
VATBaseline 10%; review any VAT reduction if applicable.
C/O / FTAPreferential duty depends on C/O and FTA schedule.
Landed cost noteDo not use this code if the product is a PLC, DCS controller or special-purpose controller with a separate code.
8537.10.30
Reference MFNReference 10%.
Ordinary dutyReference 15%.
VATVAT 10%.
C/O / FTAMay be 0% or lower than MFN under an FTA if C/O is valid.
Landed cost noteNarrow code for programmable logic controllers used with automated semiconductor machinery; may trigger MoIT Group 2 quality inspection.
8537.10.40
Reference MFNReference 15%.
Ordinary dutyReference 22.5%.
VATBaseline 10%; review any VAT reduction if applicable.
C/O / FTASpecial preferential duty depends on valid C/O.
Landed cost noteUse only when voltage/current specifications match the motor-controller code description.
8537.10.92
Reference MFNCheck the DCS-controller line at declaration date; do not borrow another rate without tariff confirmation.
Ordinary dutyOrdinary duty is determined by the corresponding MFN x 150%.
VATBaseline 10%; review VAT reduction if applicable.
C/O / FTAC/O/FTA depends on origin, description and HS code.
Landed cost noteDatasheet and system architecture should prove the DCS nature.
8537.10.99
Reference MFNReference 15%.
Ordinary dutyReference 22.5%.
VATBaseline 10%; review 8% only if eligible at declaration date.
C/O / FTAMay be 0% or lower under EVFTA/UKVFTA/ATIGA/ACFTA/AKFTA/VKFTA/RCEP/CPTPP if C/O is valid.
Landed cost noteCommon reference for other controllers; still confirm the exact 8-digit code.
8537.20.xx
Reference MFNCheck the high-voltage code for equipment over 1,000V.
Ordinary dutyCheck the tariff schedule at declaration date.
VATUsually reviewed at 10%, subject to VAT policy.
C/O / FTASpecial preferential duty depends on valid C/O.
Landed cost noteRated voltage is the landed-cost decision point.
C/O – FTA CHECK TABLE
| C/O scenario | Import duty impact | Conditions to check | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| No C/O or invalid C/O | MFN or ordinary duty may apply if preference is not accepted. | Invoice, B/L/AWB, packing list, origin marking. | Higher landed cost; difficult to fix after arrival. |
| EVFTA/UKVFTA/ATIGA/ACFTA/AKFTA/VKFTA/AIFTA/AANZFTA/CPTPP/RCEP | Special preferential duty may apply, many routes may reach 0% or below MFN. | C/O form, origin criteria, goods description, HS code and direct transport. | Generic “controller” description may lead to rejection. |
| C/O inconsistent with model or description | Preference may be rejected. | Compare C/O with invoice, packing list, catalogue and label. | Explanation or amendment may be required. |
Landed cost note:Do not calculate import cost by MFN alone. Consider exact HS, C/O, VAT, inspection/certification cost if any, storage, DEM/DET and document-amendment cost.
SPECIALIZED POLICY MATRIX
| Scenario | Potential policy | Documents to check | Authority/portal | Recommended timing | Risk note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New standard controller without special functions | Normal customs procedure, labeling, HS, tax and C/O. | Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, label. | Customs. | Before ETA. | Do not make absolute conclusions without model review. |
| Used goods under Chapter 85 | Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg may apply if imported for production. | Year of manufacture, inspection certificate if required, technical file, import purpose. | Customs/designated inspection organization. | Before shipment. | Risk of age/technical-document non-compliance. |
| Explosion-proof/hazardous-area equipment | Quality/conformity management may arise under Industry and Trade management. | Certificate, test report, Ex marking, explosion-proof standard. | Ministry of Industry and Trade/designated body if listed. | Before ETA. | Do not treat as normal goods without review. |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/4G/5G modules | ICT/telecom conformity policy may arise. | Radio module datasheet, frequency, power, test report. | Relevant specialized authority depending on list. | Before purchase. | Wireless module changes policy. |
| Encryption/security function | Cybersecurity/civil cryptography policy may arise if in scope. | Security datasheet, encryption description. | Specialized authority depending on function. | Before import. | Do not apply unless actual function falls in scope. |
| Adapter/power supply/battery included | Review labeling, electrical safety and battery transport requirements if any. | Adapter spec, battery MSDS, packing declaration. | Customs/carrier/specialized authority if listed. | Before booking. | Battery may trigger transport requirements. |
LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW
| Document group | Legal document | Issuing authority | Effective/applicable date | Role | Key point | Review note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tariff | Decree 26/2023/ND-CP; Decree 199/2025/ND-CP | Government | Decree 26 effective 15/07/2023; Decree 199 effective 08/07/2025 | MFN tariff and amendments. | Heading 8537, subheading 8537.10. | Check at declaration date. |
| VAT | VAT Law 48/2024/QH15; Decree 181/2025/ND-CP; Decree 174/2025/ND-CP if VAT reduction applies; Decree 359/2025/ND-CP; Decree 144/2026/ND-CP | National Assembly; Government | New VAT framework from 01/07/2025 | Determine import VAT. | Review 8%/10% and exclusion list. | Do not hard-code if VAT reduction changes. |
| Labeling | Decree 43/2017/ND-CP; Decree 111/2021/ND-CP | Government | Decree 43 effective 01/06/2017 | Original label and Vietnamese supplemental label. | Mandatory label contents. | Review before arrival. |
| Used machinery | Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg | Prime Minister | Effective 15/06/2019 | Criteria and procedures for used machinery/equipment import. | Applies to Chapter 84/85 goods where in scope. | Only when used goods are involved. |
| Specialized management | Decision 1182/QD-BCT and relevant lists if explosion-proof/special equipment | Ministry of Industry and Trade | Check current validity | Review explosion-proof or listed goods. | Applicable appendix/list if any. | Do not apply to ordinary controllers without basis. |
| Foreign trade | Decree 69/2018/ND-CP | Government | Effective 15/05/2018 | General foreign trade management framework. | Prohibited/restricted goods if any. | Review for special or used goods. |
VIEW / DOWNLOAD ORIGINAL LEGAL DOCUMENTS
Enterprises may search by document number on official legal portals, the Government portal or the issuing authority’s website. Enterprises should cross-check the legal portal or the issuing authority’s website before applying.
CUSTOMS DOCUMENT SET
Commercial file
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- B/L or AWB
- Contract/PO
- C/O if preferential duty is claimed
- Catalogue/datasheet, product photos, original label
Specialized file if any
- Used-goods inspection certificate
- Test report/certificate if explosion-proof
- Wireless/encryption module file if any
- Vietnamese supplemental label
Matching rule
Goods name, model, voltage, serial, origin and technical specifications must match 100% across commercial documents, catalogue, label, specialized file and customs declaration.
OPERATIONAL DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
| File group | Required documents | Used for | Prepared by | Common error | Pre-ETA check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial | Invoice, Packing List, Contract/PO, B/L/AWB | Declaration, value, classification | Importer/shipper/forwarder | Generic description “controller” | Match model, brand, voltage, function. |
| Technical | Catalogue, datasheet, wiring diagram, nameplate, I/O list | HS, policy, inspection | Supplier/technical team | Voltage/function not shown | Request datasheet before booking. |
| Origin | C/O if preferential duty is claimed | FTA preferential import duty | Shipper/exporter | Wrong HS, description or origin | Pre-check draft C/O. |
| Labeling | Original label, Vietnamese supplemental label draft | Clearance/circulation | Importer | Missing model, origin, importer | Approve label before ETA. |
| Special goods | Used-good inspection certificate, test report, certificate if explosion-proof/wireless | Specialized policy | Importer/supplier/lab | Prepared after ETA causing storage cost | Review scope before shipment. |
CLEARANCE DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT
| Decision point | Question | Evidence | Consequence if unclear | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | Is the device for ≤1,000V or > 1,000V? | Nameplate, datasheet | Wrong 8537.10/8537.20 group | Finalize rated voltage before declaration. |
| Function | Is it PLC, DCS, motor controller, panel or other controller? | Catalogue, wiring diagram, BOM | Wrong 8-digit code | Prepare technical identification matrix. |
| New/used | Is it used equipment? | Contract, photos, serial, year of manufacture | Decision 18 risk | Review before shipment. |
| Special module | Does it have wireless/encryption/explosion-proof function? | Datasheet, certification, markings | Missing specialized file | Request written supplier confirmation. |
| C/O | Does C/O match HS/description/model? | C/O draft, invoice, packing list | Preference denied | Pre-check C/O before departure. |
E2E OPERATIONAL WORKFLOW
Pre-ETA review
Finalize HS, voltage, function, model, new/used status, policy, duty, C/O and label.
Lock documents and technical file
Lock Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, wiring diagram, nameplate and C/O draft.
Prepare specialized file if any
For used, explosion-proof, wireless, encryption or battery/adapter cases, prepare file before ETA.
Customs declaration
Be ready to explain HS, value, model, voltage, C/O, goods condition and specialized policy.
Clearance, delivery and recordkeeping
Apply supplemental label where needed, deliver domestically, archive shipment file and prepare post-clearance explanations.
PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST
| Risk | Impact | Pre-ETA control | Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic goods description | Wrong HS or customs explanation | State controller type, voltage, function, model | Catalogue, datasheet, invoice |
| Confusion with inverter/cabinet/PLC/DCS | Wrong duty and policy | Compare by function | BOM, wiring diagram, I/O list |
| Used condition not reviewed | May fail import conditions | Confirm new/used before purchase | Year of manufacture, inspection certificate |
| Missing label file | Supplementation/post-clearance risk | Approve label before ETA | Label, product photos |
| C/O HS/description mismatch | No special preferential duty | Pre-check draft C/O | C/O, invoice, B/L |
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does importing an industrial controller require a permit? | Ordinary goods may follow normal customs procedures, but model-specific review is required; explosion-proof, wireless, encryption or used goods may trigger separate policy. |
| What is the HS code for a controller? | Usually review 8537.10.xx if voltage does not exceed 1,000V; exact code depends on PLC, DCS, motor controller or other type. |
| What duties apply? | Common 8537.10.99 reference: MFN 15%, ordinary 22.5%, VAT 8%/10%; exact 8-digit code must be checked. |
| Can used controllers be imported? | Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg, inspection file and import purpose may need review. |
| Is Vietnamese supplemental labeling required? | Yes when circulated in Viet Nam; label should show product name, model, origin, responsible organization and required information. |
| Can C/O reduce duty? | Possibly, if C/O form, origin, description, HS and transport conditions are valid. |
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