Find HS Code and trade information for HEATPATCHES

Heat Patches

Heat patches are self-adhesive, disposable pads that provide localized, low-level heat for pain relief and muscle relaxation. They utilize exothermic chemical reactions to generate warmth.

Material & Mechanism:

The core component of most heat patches is a mixture containing iron powder, activated carbon, salt, and water. When exposed to oxygen in the air, the iron undergoes oxidation (rusting), releasing heat as a byproduct. Activated carbon acts as a catalyst, accelerating the reaction. The salt aids in moisture retention, promoting the oxidation process. The patch itself is typically constructed with a non-woven fabric backing and an adhesive layer. Newer formulations may incorporate materials like chili extract (capsaicin) for additional therapeutic effects.

Purpose & Function:

Heat patches are primarily used for:

• Muscle Pain Relief: Soothes sore muscles, strains, and sprains.
• Joint Pain Relief: Alleviates discomfort associated with arthritis, lower back pain, and other joint conditions.
• Menstrual Cramps: Provides warmth and comfort to the lower abdomen.
• Post-Exercise Recovery: Aids in muscle recovery by increasing blood flow and reducing stiffness.
• General Warmth: Can be used for temporary relief from cold temperatures.

The heat generated by the patches increases blood circulation to the affected area, which helps to relax muscles, reduce pain signals, and promote healing. Some patches also offer a mild analgesic effect.

Usage Scenarios:

• Athletic Training: Applied to muscles before or after exercise.
• Home Use: For chronic pain conditions or temporary discomfort.
• Travel: Provides portable pain relief during long journeys.
• Workplace: Used by individuals with physically demanding jobs.
• Post-Injury: Supports recovery from minor strains and sprains.

Common Types:

• Regular Heat Patches: Provide consistent heat for 8-12 hours. These are the most common type.
• Long-Lasting Heat Patches: Designed to provide heat for up to 24 hours.
• Medicated Heat Patches: Contain ingredients like capsaicin, menthol, or other analgesics for enhanced pain relief.
• Adhesive Size Variations: Available in different sizes to accommodate various body parts.
• Wrap-Around Patches: Specifically designed for joints like the knee or elbow, offering a more secure fit.
• Circular Patches: Ideal for localized pain in areas like the lower back or abdomen.

HEATPATCHES fall under articles for medical, surgical, or veterinary purposes, specifically those impregnated or coated with pharmaceutical substances or put up in forms or packings for retail sale. Based on this understanding, the following HS codes are relevant:

• 3005101000: This HS code covers Wadding, gauze, bandages and similar articles (for example, dressings, adhesive plasters, poultices), impregnated or coated with pharmaceutical substances or put up in forms or packings for retail sale for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary purposes: Adhesive dressings and other articles having an adhesive layer: Coated or impregnated with pharmaceutical substances. This would apply if the heatpatches are adhesive dressings containing pharmaceutical substances. The total tax rate is 30.0% (0.0% base tariff, 0.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).
• 3005901000: This HS code covers Wadding, gauze, bandages and similar articles (for example, dressings, adhesive plasters, poultices), impregnated or coated with pharmaceutical substances or put up in forms or packings for retail sale for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary purposes: Other: Coated or impregnated with pharmaceutical substances. This applies to heatpatches that are not adhesive dressings but are still coated or impregnated with pharmaceutical substances. The total tax rate is 30.0% (0.0% base tariff, 0.0% additional tariff, and 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025).

It is important to determine whether the heatpatches are classified as adhesive dressings (3005101000) or another type of article (3005901000) based on their specific composition and function. Both HS codes currently have a total tax rate of 30.0%, which will be applied after April 2, 2025.