| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3910000000 | Doc | 58.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3926901000 | Doc | 40.9% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3926909989 | Doc | 42.8% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8547200000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8547900010 | Doc | 84.6% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8546900000 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9620005000 | Doc | 60.3% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9620003090 | Doc | The rate applicable to the article of which it is an accessory+30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4016990500 | Doc | 40.9% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4016995500 | Doc | 57.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4015900050 | Doc | 59.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Silicone Protective Case
A silicone protective case is a flexible accessory designed to safeguard mobile devices, typically smartphones, from physical damage, scratches, and minor impacts.
Material
The primary material is silicone, a synthetic polymer known for its flexibility, heat resistance, and water resistance. Variations exist, including:
- Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR): Offers a smoother, more premium feel and improved resistance to staining.
- Solid Silicone: More rigid than LSR, providing a slightly more robust level of protection.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): Often blended with silicone or used as a standalone material, offering a balance of flexibility and durability.
Purpose
The main purpose is to provide a protective layer against:
- Scratches: Prevents abrasion from keys, coins, and other objects.
- Impact Damage: Absorbs shocks from drops and bumps, reducing the risk of device cracking or internal component failure.
- Dust and Debris: Shields the device from dirt, dust, and small particles.
- Grip Enhancement: Improves handling and reduces the likelihood of accidental drops.
Function
Silicone cases function by:
- Shock Absorption: The flexible nature of silicone dissipates impact energy.
- Conformity: The material molds to the device's shape, providing a snug fit.
- Edge and Corner Protection: Raised edges offer additional safeguarding to vulnerable areas.
- Port and Button Coverage: Precise cutouts allow access to ports, buttons, and cameras while maintaining protection.
Usage Scenarios
- Everyday Use: Suitable for general protection against daily wear and tear.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides a degree of protection during hiking, camping, or other activities where the device may be exposed to more hazards.
- Work Environments: Protects devices from damage in demanding work settings.
- Travel: Shields devices during transportation and handling.
Common Types
- Slim Cases: Minimalist designs offering basic scratch protection.
- Full-Body Cases: Provide complete coverage, including screen protection.
- Heavy-Duty Cases: Offer enhanced impact resistance with thicker silicone and reinforced corners.
- Transparent Cases: Allow the device's original design to be visible.
- Textured Cases: Provide improved grip and handling.
- Patterned/Colored Cases: Offer aesthetic customization.
- Wallet Cases: Incorporate card slots and a cash pocket.
- Magnetic Cases: Compatible with magnetic car mounts and wireless chargers.
Based on the material and function, a silicone protective case falls under the category of articles made from silicones.
Here are the relevant HS codes from the provided reference material:
-
3910.00.00.00: This HS code covers Silicones in primary forms. This is the most basic classification for silicone materials before they are processed into finished goods.
- 39: Chapter 39 covers plastics and articles thereof.
- 10: Heading 10 specifically refers to silicones in primary forms.
- 00.00.00: This further specifies the product as silicones in primary forms, without further subdivision.
-
4015.90.00.50: This HS code covers Articles of apparel and clothing accessories (including gloves, mittens and mitts), for all purposes, of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber: Other Other. While primarily for apparel, it's possible a protective case could be considered an accessory, depending on its specific design and use.
- 40: Chapter 40 covers rubber and articles thereof.
- 15: Heading 15 covers articles of apparel and clothing accessories.
- 90.00.50: This further specifies the product as other articles of apparel and clothing accessories.
-
4016.99.05.00: This HS code covers Other articles of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber: Other: Other: Household articles not elsewhere specified or included. A silicone protective case could potentially fall under this classification if it's used as a household item to protect electronic devices.
- 40: Chapter 40 covers rubber and articles thereof.
- 16: Heading 16 covers other articles of vulcanized rubber.
- 99.05.00: This further specifies the product as other household articles.
Regarding HS code 4016.99.05.00, please note that the tax rate is 40.9% (3.4% basic tariff + 7.5% additional tariff + 30.0% additional tariff after 2025.4.2).
It is recommended to carefully consider the specific use and characteristics of the silicone protective case to determine the most accurate HS code. If the case is made from primary silicone material, 3910.00.00.00 is the most appropriate. If it is a finished product used for protection, 4016.99.05.00 or 4015.90.00.50 may be more suitable.