US import duty on game consoles
Video game consoles are duty-free under HTS 9504.50 — Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, handhelds all read zero tariff. Fees still apply, and China-origin consoles (most of them) carry the 35%+ overlay stack on the hardware.
Consoles duty rates at a glance
| Item | HTS code | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| Home console | 9504.50.00 | Free |
| Handheld console | 9504.50.00 | Free |
| Board game | 9504.90.60 | Free |
| Arcade machine (coin-operated) | 9504.30.00 | Free |
Key facts
- Video game consoles (HTS 9504.50.00): Free
- Coin-operated arcade machines (HTS 9504.30): Free
- Board & table games (HTS 9504.90): Free
- Most consoles are China-origin — IEEPA +10% and Section 301 +25% still stack
Don't forget the fees
- MPF processing fee: from $2.69 (informal entry)
- Carrier brokerage: USPS flat $9.35; UPS/FedEx/DHL vary
- Country-of-origin surcharges stack on top of MFN rates
Consoles duty by origin country
FAQs
If consoles are duty-free, why do people get charged?
Origin and fees. A China-made console carries IEEPA +10% and Section 301 +25% despite the Free MFN line — and the carrier's brokerage fee applies either way. On a $400 console from Japan, expect roughly $10–$35 in fees plus the 10% forced-labor overlay.
Do digital games go through customs?
No — digital downloads aren't imported goods, so no duty or customs fees. You may owe state sales tax at checkout instead.
Are controllers and accessories dutiable?
Accessories made for a specific console generally classify with 9504.50 as parts — Free. Generic third-party peripherals can land elsewhere in the schedule, so check if the value is high.