Find HS Code and trade information for laminators

Laminators

Laminators are machines that encapsulate documents or other items between transparent plastic, typically to protect them from damage, enhance their appearance, or make them more durable. The process is known as lamination.

Materials

• Laminating Film: The core material used. Commonly available in polyester, polypropylene, or a combination of both. Film thickness is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) and varies depending on the intended use. Common thicknesses include 3 mil, 5 mil, 10 mil, and 12 mil. Films can be glossy, matte, or textured. Some films are specifically designed for cold lamination, while others require heat.
• Carrier: Some laminating films use a carrier sheet which provides rigidity during the lamination process and is removed afterward.
• Adhesive: A pressure-sensitive or heat-activated adhesive is applied to the film to bond it to the item being laminated.

Purpose

• Protection: Shields documents from water damage, tearing, fading, dirt, and everyday wear and tear.
• Durability: Increases the lifespan of items, making them more resistant to handling.
• Enhancement: Improves the visual appeal of documents or items, providing a professional finish.
• Preservation: Protects valuable items like photos, maps, and artwork.

Function

Laminators apply heat and pressure to melt the adhesive on the laminating film, creating a bond between the film and the item being laminated. The process typically involves feeding the item and film through heated rollers.

Usage Scenarios

• Offices: Laminating ID cards, signage, presentations, and important documents.
• Schools: Protecting posters, flashcards, and student work.
• Homes: Preserving photos, artwork, and family keepsakes.
• Retail: Creating durable price tags, shelf labels, and promotional materials.
• Libraries & Archives: Protecting valuable maps, documents, and historical items.

Common Types

• Pouch Laminators: The most common type for small-volume use. Items are placed inside a pre-sealed pouch with laminating film and run through the machine. Generally used for items sized up to 12" wide.
• Roll Laminators: Used for larger-volume lamination and wider formats. Items are laminated using a roll of film. Suitable for posters, banners, and large signage. Can be cold or hot lamination.
• Cold Laminators: Use pressure-sensitive film and do not require heat. Ideal for heat-sensitive materials like photographs or certain inks.
• Hot Laminators: Use heat-activated film to create a strong bond. Offer a wider range of film options and are suitable for most applications.
• Wide Format Laminators: Designed for laminating very large items, such as blueprints, architectural drawings, and large-scale graphics.

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

• 8420109040: This HS code falls under Chapter 84 – Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof. Specifically, it covers 8420 – Calendering or other rolling machines, other than for metals or glass, and cylinders therefor; parts thereof, and further specifies 8420109040 – Calendering or other rolling machines for rubber and plastics. This suggests the machine is used for processing rubber or plastics. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

• 8420109080: Similar to the above, this HS code also falls under Chapter 84 and 8420. However, it is categorized as “Other Calendering or other rolling machines”. The total tax rate is also 55.0%, with the same tariff breakdown as 8420109040.

It is important to note that these HS codes relate to “calendering or other rolling machines”. To determine the most accurate HS code, it is crucial to confirm whether the laminators function as rolling machines for rubber or plastics, or fall into a broader “other” category within that classification.