Find HS Code and trade information for pen clip

Pen Clip

A pen clip, also known as a pocket clip or spring clip, is a small, typically metal, device attached to writing implements – most commonly pens – to allow for easy carrying and attachment to paper, pockets, notebooks, or clothing.

Material

Pen clips are most frequently constructed from:

• Steel: Offers strength and durability, often plated with chrome, nickel, or other finishes for corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
• Stainless Steel: Provides enhanced corrosion resistance and a premium feel.
• Brass: Used for clips requiring a heavier weight or specific aesthetic qualities; often plated.
• Plastic: Less common for high-quality pens but found in disposable pens and some lower-cost models. ABS plastic is typical.
• Alloy: Various metal alloys are used to balance cost, strength, and flexibility.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a pen clip is convenience of carry. It allows a pen to be securely fastened to a pocket, preventing loss or damage. It also facilitates quick access to the pen.

Function

The function of a pen clip relies on spring tension. The clip is formed into a curved shape, typically with a gap. When pressure is applied, the gap widens, allowing it to slide over an object (e.g., pocket fabric). Upon release, the spring tension returns the clip to its original shape, gripping the object. The design is intended to provide sufficient friction to hold the pen in place without causing damage to the attachment surface.

Usage Scenarios

• Everyday Carry (EDC): Attaching a pen to a shirt pocket, notebook, or bag.
• Professional Settings: Securing a pen for quick note-taking in meetings or while working.
• Students: Conveniently attaching a pen to a binder, notebook, or clothing.
• Gift Items: Often incorporated into higher-end pens as a feature of quality and design.

Common Types

• Standard Clip: A simple, curved metal clip, often chrome-plated steel. The most ubiquitous design.
• Roller Clip: Features a small roller on the clip to facilitate smoother sliding over fabric or paper.
• Spring-Loaded Clip: Utilizes a stronger spring for a more secure grip.
• Wire Clip: A thinner, often stainless steel, clip, sometimes used for minimalist pen designs.
• Double Clip: Features two clips for increased security or attachment options.
• Decorative Clip: Clips with added aesthetic elements, such as engraving, plating, or unique shapes.
• Retractable Clip: Clips that can be retracted or folded away when not in use.

Pen clips fall under the category of parts of pens.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 9608994000: This HS code covers ball point pens, felt tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers, fountain pens, stylograph pens and other pens; duplicating styli; propelling or sliding pencils (for example, mechanical pencils); pen-holders, pencil-holders and similar holders; parts (including caps and clips) of the foregoing articles, other than those of heading 9609. Specifically, it applies to parts of articles provided for in subheadings 9608.10 and 9608.30 (other than balls for ball point pens).

  • 96: Chapter 96 covers miscellaneous manufactured articles.
  • 08: Heading 9608 specifically covers pens, pencils, and related articles.
  • 994000: This further specifies "Other" within the category of parts of the aforementioned articles.
  • Tax Rate Details: Basic tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 7.5%, Additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30.0%. Total tariff: 37.5%.

• 8308909000: This HS code covers 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: Other.

  • 83: Chapter 83 covers miscellaneous articles of base metal.
  • 08: Heading 8308 specifically covers clasps, buckles, and similar articles.
  • 909000: This further specifies "Other, including parts" within the category of the aforementioned articles.
  • Tax Rate Details: Basic tariff: 2.7%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, Additional tariff after 2025.4.2: 30.0%. Total tariff: 57.7%.

Please note that the applicable HS code will depend on the specific material composition and intended use of the pen clip. If the clip is specifically designed as a part of a pen as described in 9608994000, that code is most appropriate. If it is a more general clasp or hook made of base metal, 8308909000 may be more suitable.