Find HS Code and trade information for pickleball paddle

Pickleball Paddle

A pickleball paddle is a specialized racket used in the sport of pickleball. Unlike tennis rackets, pickleball paddles are solid and typically made of composite materials.

Material

Paddle construction varies, impacting weight, power, and control. Common materials include:

• Wood: Traditionally used, wood paddles are heavier, offer less power, and are less consistent. They are typically the most affordable option.
• Composite Materials: The most common modern paddle construction. These utilize layers of materials like:
  • Graphite: Offers a lightweight feel, high power, and good control. Higher graphite content generally increases price and performance.
  • Carbon Fiber: Similar to graphite, often lighter and stiffer, providing increased power and precision.
  • Fiberglass: More flexible than graphite or carbon fiber, offering a larger sweet spot and more control, but generally less power.
  • Polymer Cores: (e.g., Nomex, Polypropylene, Aluminum) These cores contribute to the paddle's weight, feel, and responsiveness. Nomex cores are lightweight and provide good control, while polypropylene cores are more affordable and offer a softer feel. Aluminum cores are heavier and provide more power.
• Aluminum: Less common, offering durability but heavier weight and reduced feel.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a pickleball paddle is to hit a perforated plastic ball (pickleball) over a net, adhering to the rules of pickleball.

Function

A paddle functions by providing a striking surface to propel the ball. Key functional aspects include:

• Surface Area: Larger surface areas offer a larger sweet spot and more control, while smaller surface areas can provide more maneuverability.
• Weight: Lighter paddles are easier to maneuver and react with, while heavier paddles offer more power.
• Grip Size: Proper grip size is crucial for comfort and control.
• Core Thickness: Thicker cores generally provide more power, while thinner cores offer more control.
• Edge Guard: Protects the paddle from damage during use.

Usage Scenarios

Pickleball paddles are used in a variety of settings:

• Recreational Play: Casual games with friends and family.
• Competitive Tournaments: Organized events with varying skill levels.
• Indoor Courts: Gymnasiums and dedicated pickleball facilities.
• Outdoor Courts: Dedicated pickleball courts or adapted tennis/basketball courts.

Common Types

• Standard Paddles: The most common type, with a balanced weight and shape.
• Lightweight Paddles: Designed for players seeking faster reaction times and maneuverability.
• Heavyweight Paddles: Designed for players seeking more power.
• Widebody Paddles: Feature a larger surface area for a larger sweet spot.
• Elongated Paddles: Feature a longer handle and shape, offering more reach.
• Graphite Paddles: Popular for their balance of power and control.
• Carbon Fiber Paddles: Lightweight and offer high performance.

Pickleball paddles are articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports or outdoor games. They fall under the category of table-tennis equipment as well, given the similarities in gameplay.

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

• 9506400000: This HS code covers articles and equipment for table-tennis, and parts and accessories thereof. The basic tariff is 5.1%, with no additional tariff currently, but a 30% additional tariff will be applied after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 35.1%.
• 9506598060: This HS code covers articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports (including table-tennis) or outdoor games, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; swimming pools and wading pools; parts and accessories thereof: Tennis, badminton or similar rackets, whether or not strung; parts and accessories thereof: Other: Other Other, including parts and accessories. The basic tariff is 4.0%, with an additional tariff of 7.5% currently, and 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 41.5%. Given the similarity between pickleball and tennis/badminton, this code is also applicable.

It is important to note that the additional tariff for both HS codes will increase to 30% after April 2, 2025. When declaring, it is advisable to carefully consider the material composition and intended use of the pickleball paddle to determine the most accurate HS code.