Find HS Code and trade information for plastic pen

Plastic Pen

A plastic pen is a writing instrument utilizing a plastic casing to house and protect its core writing mechanism. It represents a widely used, cost-effective alternative to traditional metal pens.

Material

The primary component is plastic, typically polypropylene (PP) or polystyrene (PS) due to their low cost, moldability, and durability. Other plastic types may be used for specific components like the grip or internal parts. The writing point is generally made of tungsten carbide, stainless steel, or ceramic. Ink composition varies (see 'Common Types' below).

Purpose

The fundamental purpose is to deposit ink onto a surface, typically paper, for writing, drawing, or marking.

Function

A plastic pen operates through a gravity-fed ink delivery system. The ink reservoir is positioned above the writing point. Capillary action and gravity draw the ink down to the ballpoint or needle point, which then transfers the ink to the writing surface as the pen is moved. Some designs utilize a spring-loaded mechanism to retract the point when not in use, preventing ink leakage and damage.

Usage Scenarios

Plastic pens are employed in a broad range of settings:

• Everyday Writing: Note-taking, journaling, list-making.
• Office Environments: General office use, signing documents.
• Educational Institutions: Student use for assignments and tests.
• Promotional Items: Branded pens distributed for marketing purposes.
• Household Use: General writing and marking tasks.

Common Types

• Ballpoint Pen: The most prevalent type, utilizing a small rotating ball (typically made of tungsten carbide) to dispense viscous, oil-based ink. Known for reliability and longevity.
• Gel Pen: Employs a gel-based ink, which is typically water-based and provides smoother writing and more vibrant colors compared to ballpoint pens. Ink tends to be used up more quickly.
• Rollerball Pen: Uses water-based or gel-based ink and a rotating ball, offering a smoother writing experience than ballpoint pens with a similar ink flow to gel pens.
• Fountain Pen (Plastic-Barreled): While traditionally metal, fountain pens can have plastic bodies. They utilize a nib and a reservoir filled with liquid ink, offering a unique writing experience and requiring more maintenance.
• Disposable Pen: Designed for single use and are inexpensive, often given away as promotional items.
• Retractable Pen: Features a mechanism (button or twist) to extend and retract the writing point.
• Cap Pen: Requires a cap to cover and protect the writing point when not in use.

Plastic pens fall under several potential classifications depending on their specific features. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 3926100000: This code covers “Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Office or school supplies”. This is applicable if the plastic pen is specifically marketed and intended for office or school use. The total tax rate is 35.3%, comprised of a 5.3% base tariff, 0.0% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 9608100000: This code is for “Ball point pens”. It applies specifically to ballpoint pens. The tariff structure is 0.8¢ each + 5.4% base tariff, 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 9608200000: This code covers “Felt tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers”. If the pen is a felt-tipped or porous-tipped pen (not a ballpoint), this code applies. The total tax rate is 41.5%, consisting of a 4.0% base tariff, 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.

It is important to determine the exact type of pen (ballpoint, felt-tipped, etc.) and its intended use (office/school or general purpose) to select the correct HS code.