Find HS Code and trade information for decorative clip

Decorative Clip

A decorative clip is a fastening device primarily used to hold items together, but distinguished by its aesthetic design intended to add visual appeal. Unlike functional clips focused solely on grip strength, decorative clips emphasize ornamentation alongside their securing purpose.

Material

Decorative clips are manufactured from a diverse range of materials, selected for both appearance and intended application:

• Metal: Brass, copper, stainless steel, and alloys are common for durability and a premium look. Often used in clothing, stationery, and crafting. Finishes include plating (gold, silver, nickel), polishing, and painting.
• Plastic: Acrylic, polycarbonate, and polypropylene are lightweight and versatile, allowing for a wide variety of colors and designs. Frequently found in hair accessories, office supplies, and packaging.
• Wood: Used for a natural, rustic aesthetic. Common in crafts, gift packaging, and some stationery items.
• Fabric: Covered clips utilizing materials like ribbon, velvet, or patterned cotton, often used in hair accessories and clothing embellishments.
• Mixed Media: Combinations of materials (e.g., metal frame with acrylic inlay, wood base with fabric covering) are used to create unique designs.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a decorative clip is twofold:

• Securing: Holding papers, fabrics, hair strands, or other lightweight items together. Grip strength varies significantly based on material and design.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Adding visual interest, color, or a specific style to the items being fastened or to the overall presentation.

Function

Decorative clips function through mechanical pressure. The clip’s arms exert force to hold objects together. Designs vary:

• Spring-Loaded: Most common type, utilizing a spring to maintain pressure.
• Hinge-Based: Arms pivot on a hinge, clamping down when closed.
• Snap-Action: Arms snap together, creating a secure hold.
• Magnetic: Utilize magnets to hold items together; typically for lighter applications.

Usage Scenarios

• Stationery: Holding papers, notes, or envelopes together. Often used in planners, journals, and gift packaging.
• Hair Accessories: Securing hair strands in buns, ponytails, or braids. Available in a wide range of styles, from simple bobby pin designs to elaborate jeweled clips.
• Clothing: As embellishments on garments, bags, or accessories. Can be used to close scarves, decorate belts, or add flair to dresses.
• Crafting: Holding fabric layers together during sewing or quilting, or as decorative elements in scrapbooking or other projects.
• Gift Packaging: Adding a decorative touch to gift bags, boxes, or ribbons.
• Retail Display: Securing price tags or promotional materials to products.

Common Types

• Butterfly Clip: A classic hair accessory with two curved arms that snap together.
• Bobby Pin (Decorative): Metal hairpins adorned with beads, rhinestones, or other embellishments.
• Binder Clip (Decorative): Metal clips used for papers, often coated in colorful finishes or featuring decorative designs.
• Alligator Clip: Hair clip with a spring-loaded jaw resembling an alligator's mouth, frequently embellished.
• Snap Clip: Plastic or metal clips that snap closed, often used for hair or stationery.
• Ribbon Clip: Fabric-covered clips, commonly used for hair accessories.
• Magnetic Clip: Utilizing magnets for a gentle hold, ideal for delicate fabrics or papers.

Based on the provided information, “decorative clip” can be classified under the following HS codes:

• 7326908688: Other articles of iron or steel; Other; Other; Other. This code covers a broad range of iron or steel articles not specifically categorized elsewhere. Given the “decorative” nature of the clip, it falls under this general classification. The total tax rate is 82.9%. Please note the need to verify steel material and may require 25% steel, aluminum products tariff.
• 8308909000: Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles; tubular or bifurcated rivets, of base metal; beads and spangles, of base metal; Other, including parts; Other. This code is applicable if the clip is used as a fastening or decorative element in items like clothing, accessories, or jewelry. The total tax rate is 57.7%.
• 8308903000: Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles; tubular or bifurated rivets, of base metal; beads and spangles, of base metal; Other, including parts; Beads and spangles of base metal. If the decorative clip specifically functions as a bead or spangle, this code applies. The total tax rate is 55.0%.
• 7113115000: Articles of jewelry and parts thereof, of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal; Of base metal clad with precious metal; Other; Other. If the clip is made of a base metal covered in gold or another precious metal, this code is relevant. The total tax rate is 42.5%.

It is important to determine the clip’s material composition and intended use to select the most accurate HS code. If the clip is made of iron or steel, 7326908688 is the most likely classification. If it is used as a fastening element in accessories, 8308909000 or 8308903000 may be more appropriate. If it is clad with precious metal, 7113115000 should be considered.