Find HS Code and trade information for plastic car model

Plastic Car Model

A plastic car model is a scaled-down representation of an automobile, constructed primarily from plastic materials. These models range significantly in size, detail, and purpose, catering to a diverse range of interests from casual collectors to serious hobbyists.

Materials

The primary material is plastic, with several types commonly used:

• Polystyrene: The most frequently used plastic due to its ease of molding, low cost, and good detail reproduction. Often used for snap-fit kits.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): More durable than polystyrene, offering greater impact resistance. Common in pre-built models and more robust kits.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Used for certain parts requiring flexibility or specific textures.
• Polypropylene: Less common, but utilized for specific components like tires or chassis parts.

Metal components, such as axles, screws, and sometimes weights, are often integrated for structural integrity or realism.

Purpose

• Collecting: Many models are produced as collectibles, often representing iconic vehicles or limited-edition releases.
• Hobby/Kit Building: Kits provide unassembled models requiring assembly, painting, and detailing. This is a popular pastime for enthusiasts.
• Display: Models are frequently used for display purposes, showcasing automotive history, personal preferences, or collection themes.
• Educational: Models can serve as educational tools, illustrating automotive engineering and design.
• Promotional: Manufacturers sometimes release models as promotional items.

Function

Plastic car models generally do not have functional drivetrains. Their primary function is visual representation. Some models may feature:

• Rotating wheels: Allowing for manual rolling.
• Steering: Limited steering functionality in some higher-end models.
• Opening parts: Doors, hoods, trunks, and interiors can be designed to open for increased detail.
• Lights: Some models include functional lights powered by batteries.

Usage Scenarios

• Display cases/Shelves: The most common use, showcasing the model.
• Dioramas: Models are frequently incorporated into miniature scenes representing real-world environments.
• Workbenches: Kit building requires a dedicated workspace.
• Events/Shows: Models are often exhibited at automotive shows, hobby conventions, and collector gatherings.

Common Types

• Snap-Fit Kits: Pre-painted parts that assemble without glue, ideal for beginners.
• Glue-and-Paint Kits: Require assembly using adhesives and painting for a more customized finish.
• Diecast Models: While often containing metal parts, many premium diecast models incorporate plastic components for detailing.
• Pre-Built Models: Fully assembled, ready for display.
• Scale Models: Representations of vehicles at reduced sizes, commonly using scales like 1:18, 1:24, 1:43, and 1:64. (e.g., 1:18 means the model is 1/18th the size of the real vehicle).
• Slot Cars: Designed for racing on dedicated slot car tracks, typically powered by an electric motor.
• Promotional Models: Models produced by car manufacturers for marketing purposes.
• Movie/TV Show Models: Replicas of vehicles featured in films or television series.

Plastic car models fall under various classifications depending on their specific characteristics. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 3926.90.40.00: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Imitation gemstones”. While primarily for imitation gemstones, it’s included as plastic models could be considered decorative items utilizing plastic materials.

  • 39: Chapter 39 covers plastics and articles thereof.
  • 26: Heading 3926 specifically covers other articles of plastics.
  • 90: Subheading 3926.90 covers other articles.
  • 40: Further specifies imitation gemstones.

• 3926.90.99.89: This HS code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other”. This is a broader category for plastic articles not specifically defined elsewhere.

  • 39: Chapter 39 covers plastics and articles thereof.
  • 26: Heading 3926 specifically covers other articles of plastics.
  • 90: Subheading 3926.90 covers other articles.
  • 99: Further specifies other articles.
  • 89: Represents a more general "other" classification within the subheading.

• 9503.00.00.71: This HS code covers “Tricycles, scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys; dollsʼ carriages; dolls, other toys; reduced-scale (“scaleˮ) models and similar recreational models, working or not; puzzles of all kinds; parts and accessories thereof “Childrenʼs productsˮ as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2052: Other: Labeled or determined by importer as intended for use by persons: Under 3 years of age”. If the plastic car model is classified as a toy for children under 3, this code applies.

  • 95: Chapter 95 covers toys, games and sports equipment.
  • 03: Heading 9503 specifically covers toys, games and sports equipment.
  • 00: Further specifies various types of toys.
  • 71: Indicates toys intended for children under 3 years of age.

• 9503.00.00.73: This HS code covers “Tricycles, scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys; dollsʼ carriages; dolls, other toys; reduced-scale (“scaleˮ) models and similar recreational models, working or not; puzzles of all kinds; parts and accessories thereof “Childrenʼs productsˮ as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2052: Other: Labeled or determined by importer as intended for use by persons: 3 to 12 years of age”. If the plastic car model is classified as a toy for children between 3 and 12, this code applies.

  • 95: Chapter 95 covers toys, games and sports equipment.
  • 03: Heading 9503 specifically covers toys, games and sports equipment.
  • 00: Further specifies various types of toys.
  • 73: Indicates toys intended for children between 3 and 12 years of age.

Important Note: Regarding HS codes 9503.00.00.71 and 9503.00.00.73, the classification depends on the age range the importer determines the toy is intended for. These codes fall under the definition of “Children’s productsˮ as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2052.

The tariff rate for HS codes 9503.00.00.71 and 9503.00.00.73 is currently 30.0%, including a base tariff of 0.0%, a surcharge of 0.0%, and an additional surcharge of 30% after April 2, 2025. HS codes 3926.90.40.00 and 3926.90.99.89 have base tariffs of 2.8% and 5.3% respectively, with a surcharge of 7.5% for 3926.90.99.89 and an additional surcharge of 30% after April 2, 2025.