Find HS Code and trade information for snack box

Snack Box

A snack box is a container holding single-serving portions of various snack foods. These are commonly used for convenient, pre-portioned snacking, and are found in diverse settings ranging from personal use to commercial distribution.

Material

Snack boxes are constructed from a variety of materials, selected based on cost, intended use, and environmental considerations:

• Cardboard/Paperboard: The most common material, valued for its low cost, recyclability, and printability. Often used for single-use applications. Variations include coated cardboard for moisture resistance.
• Plastic: Offers durability and reusability. Common types include polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Concerns exist regarding plastic waste and recycling.
• Metal: Typically aluminum or tinplate, providing robust protection and a premium feel. Often used for gift boxes or longer-term storage.
• Reusable Containers: Increasingly popular, made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or BPA-free plastic. Designed for repeated use, reducing environmental impact.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a snack box is to provide a convenient and portion-controlled way to consume snacks. Specific purposes include:

• Personal Consumption: For individual snacking at home, work, or while traveling.
• Gift Giving: Pre-assembled snack boxes are frequently given as gifts, customized to recipient preferences.
• Event Catering: Providing snacks at meetings, parties, or conferences.
• Subscription Services: A core component of snack subscription boxes, delivering curated selections regularly.
• Retail Sales: Pre-packaged snack boxes sold in stores for immediate consumption or as a quick meal/snack option.

Function

Snack boxes function by:

• Containment: Securely holding snacks to prevent spillage and maintain freshness.
• Portion Control: Providing pre-determined serving sizes, aiding in dietary management.
• Preservation: Protecting snacks from moisture, air, and light to extend shelf life (depending on the material and packaging).
• Presentation: Visually appealing packaging can enhance the snacking experience, particularly in gift or retail contexts.

Usage Scenarios

• Office/Workplace: Providing employees with convenient snacks throughout the day.
• Travel: Packing snacks for road trips, flights, or picnics.
• School/University: Packing snacks for students.
• Home: Storing and consuming snacks at home.
• Outdoor Activities: Bringing snacks on hikes, camping trips, or sporting events.
• Hospitals/Healthcare Facilities: Providing snacks to patients or staff.

Common Types

• Cardboard Snack Boxes: The most basic type, often used for single-serving snacks or as part of larger gift sets.
• Bento Boxes: Originating from Japanese cuisine, these compartmentalized boxes are designed for a variety of small snacks and meals. Often reusable.
• Subscription Boxes: Curated selections of snacks delivered regularly, often themed around specific dietary needs or preferences (e.g., healthy snacks, vegan snacks, international snacks).
• Gift Snack Boxes: Decoratively packaged boxes containing a variety of snacks, often customized for special occasions.
• Compartmentalized Plastic Boxes: Reusable plastic containers with multiple compartments for separating different snacks.
• Snack Packs: Smaller, individually wrapped portions of snacks bundled together for convenience.

Based on the provided information, “snack box” can be classified under several HS codes, depending on the materials and contents of the box. Here's a breakdown:

• 4819.10.00.20: This HS code covers cartons, boxes, cases, bags and other packing containers, of paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers. Specifically, it includes sanitary food and beverage containers. This would be applicable if the snack box is made of paper or paperboard and is designed for food. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprising a base tariff of 0.0%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a further 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 4819.50.20.00: This HS code also covers cartons, boxes, cases, bags and other packing containers, of paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers. It applies to other packing containers, including record sleeves, and specifically includes sanitary food and beverage containers. The total tax rate is 55.0%, with a base tariff of 0.0%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a further 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 3923.10.20.00: If the snack box is made of plastics and is specially shaped or fitted for the conveyance or packing of goods, this HS code applies. The total tax rate is 55.0%, consisting of a base tariff of 0.0%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a further 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 3923.10.90.00: This HS code covers boxes, cases, crates and similar articles made of plastics, but not specially shaped or fitted for specific goods. The total tax rate is 58.0%, with a base tariff of 3.0%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and a further 30.0% after April 2, 2025.

Important Considerations:

• If the snack box is made of vulcanized rubber, HS codes 4016.99.03.00 (total tax rate 58.0%) might be applicable.
• The material composition of the snack box is crucial for accurate classification.
• Regarding HS codes 4819.10.00.20 and 4819.50.20.00, the box must be designed as a sanitary container for food and beverages.