Find HS Code and trade information for earplug

Earplug

An earplug is a device worn in the ear to dampen or block out sounds.

Material:

Earplugs are constructed from a variety of materials, each offering different levels of noise reduction and comfort. Common materials include:

• Foam: Typically made of polyurethane foam, these are disposable, inexpensive, and conform to the shape of the ear canal for a good seal.
• Silicone: Reusable, washable, and often come in multiple flanges for different ear canal sizes. Can be more comfortable for long-term wear.
• Wax: Moldable and conform to the ear canal, providing a custom fit. Often used for swimming.
• Flanged Rubber/Plastic: Reusable, come in various sizes and shapes, and offer a moderate level of noise reduction.
• Custom-Molded: Made from impressions of the ear canal, providing the best fit and highest level of noise reduction. Typically made of silicone or acrylic.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of earplugs is hearing protection. They are used in a wide range of applications to mitigate the risk of noise-induced hearing loss or to simply reduce unwanted sounds.

Function:

Earplugs function by blocking or absorbing sound waves before they reach the eardrum. The effectiveness of an earplug is measured by its Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), expressed in decibels (dB). A higher NRR indicates greater noise reduction. The proper insertion of the earplug is crucial for achieving the stated NRR.

Usage Scenarios:

• Industrial Settings: Protecting workers from loud machinery and equipment noise.
• Construction: Reducing noise from power tools, hammering, and other construction activities.
• Shooting Ranges: Preventing hearing damage from gunfire.
• Swimming: Preventing water from entering the ear canal, reducing the risk of ear infections (swimmer's ear).
• Concerts/Music Events: Reducing exposure to loud music.
• Sleeping: Blocking out snoring, traffic noise, or other disturbances.
• Travel: Reducing cabin noise on airplanes or trains.
• Motorcycling/Racing: Protecting against wind noise and engine sounds.

Common Types:

• Foam Earplugs: Disposable, single-use, and widely available.
• Pre-Molded Earplugs: Reusable, come in various sizes and shapes, often with a stem for easy insertion and removal.
• Custom Earplugs: Made to fit the individual ear canal, offering superior comfort and noise reduction. These can be vented or non-vented.
• Flanged Earplugs: Reusable, often used for general noise reduction or swimming.
• Electronic Earplugs: Reduce loud noises while amplifying quieter sounds, useful in hunting or tactical situations.
• Musician's Earplugs: Designed to reduce noise evenly across the frequency spectrum, preserving sound quality while protecting hearing.

Based on the provided information, the following HS codes may be relevant to “earplug”:

• 6506910060: This HS code falls under Chapter 65, which covers headgear. Specifically, it refers to “Other headgear, whether or not lined or trimmed: Other: Of rubber or plastics Other”. This could apply if the earplugs are made of rubber or plastics and are considered a form of headgear (though this is a broad interpretation). The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.

• 9021908100: This HS code is under Chapter 90, covering orthopedic appliances, including hearing aids. It specifically refers to “Other: Other”. If the earplugs are used to compensate for a hearing defect or disability, this code might be applicable. The total tax rate is 30.0%, consisting of a 0.0% base tariff and a 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'earplug' are limited, with only the following 2 found.