Find HS Code and trade information for starburst signs fluorescent price signs

Starburst Signs (Fluorescent Price Signs)

Starburst signs, also known as fluorescent price signs, are a type of display used to prominently advertise prices and promotions, typically in retail environments. They utilize fluorescent lighting to attract attention and enhance visibility.

Material

The core components of starburst signs generally include:

• Acrylic or Polycarbonate: The primary body of the sign is often constructed from clear or colored acrylic or polycarbonate sheets. These materials offer durability, light transmission, and ease of customization.
• Fluorescent Tubes or LED Strips: Illumination is provided by either traditional fluorescent tubes or, increasingly, energy-efficient LED strips.
• Metal Framework: A metal frame, typically aluminum, supports the acrylic/polycarbonate panels and provides structural integrity. This frame also houses the wiring for the lighting.
• Vinyl or Printed Graphics: Numbers, letters, and promotional text are applied using vinyl cutouts or printed directly onto the acrylic/polycarbonate.
• Power Supply & Ballast (for fluorescent models): Essential for powering the fluorescent tubes. LED models require LED drivers instead.

Purpose

The primary purpose of starburst signs is to:

• Attract Attention: The bright fluorescent lighting immediately draws the eye of customers.
• Highlight Prices & Promotions: Clearly display prices, discounts, and special offers.
• Increase Sales: By making promotions visible, they encourage impulse purchases and drive sales.
• Enhance Store Aesthetics: While functional, they can also contribute to a store’s overall visual appeal.

Function

Starburst signs function by:

• Illumination: Fluorescent tubes or LEDs emit bright light that passes through the acrylic/polycarbonate panels.
• Light Diffusion: The panels diffuse the light, creating a uniformly illuminated display.
• Visibility: The bright illumination ensures that the price information is easily visible from a distance and in various lighting conditions.
• Customization: The ability to change the numbers and graphics allows for flexible pricing and promotion updates.

Usage Scenarios

Common locations where starburst signs are used include:

• Gas Stations: Displaying fuel prices.
• Convenience Stores: Advertising prices for frequently purchased items and promotions.
• Supermarkets: Highlighting sales and special offers in specific departments.
• Retail Stores: Promoting discounts, clearance items, and new arrivals.
• Restaurants & Fast Food Chains: Displaying menu prices and limited-time offers.
• Car Washes: Showing service prices.

Common Types

Starburst signs are categorized based on several factors:

• Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided: Single-sided signs display information on one face, while double-sided signs are visible from both sides.
• Number of Rows/Columns: The number of rows and columns determines the amount of price information that can be displayed. Common configurations include 2x3, 3x3, 4x4, etc.
• Lighting Type:
  • Fluorescent: Traditional, cost-effective, but less energy-efficient.
  • LED: More energy-efficient, longer lifespan, and often offer customizable color options.
• Digit Type:
  • Mechanical Flip-Disc: Use rotating discs to display numbers. Durable but can be more expensive.
  • Vinyl/Printed Numbers: More affordable, require manual replacement for price changes.
  • Electronic/Digital: Use LED displays and can be remotely updated.
• Remote Control vs. Manual Change: Some signs can be updated remotely via a wireless controller, while others require manual replacement of numbers.

Starburst signs fluorescent price signs can be classified under several HS codes based on their components and function, as detailed below:

• 8539310070: This code covers discharge lamps, other than ultraviolet lamps, specifically fluorescent, hot cathode, other. This applies if the “fluorescent” aspect refers to the lamp itself being a fluorescent tube used within the sign. The total tax rate is 57.4%.
• 8512202080: This code applies to other lighting or visual signaling equipment used for cycles or motor vehicles. If the signs are designed for use in vehicles, the total tax rate is 55.0%.
• 9405612000: This code covers luminaires and lighting fittings, including searchlights and spotlights, and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included; illuminated signs, illuminated name-plates and the like, having a permanently fixed light source, and parts thereof not elsewhere specified or included: Illuminated signs, illuminated name-plates and the like: Designed for use solely with light-emitting diode (LED) light sources: Of base metal: Of brass. The total tax rate is 60.7%.
• 9405614000: This code covers luminaires and lighting fittings including searchlights and spotlights and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included; illuminated signs, illuminated name-plates and the like, having a permanently fixed light source, and parts thereof not elsewhere specified or included: Illuminated signs, illuminated name-plates and the like: Designed for use solely with light-emitting diode (LED) light sources: Of base metal: Other. The total tax rate is 61.0%.

Explanation of HS Code Structure (based on provided reference material):

• Chapter 85: Electrical lighting or signaling equipment.
• Heading 8512: Electrical lighting or signaling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539), windshield wipers, defrosters and demisters, of a kind used for cycles or motor vehicles.
• Subheading 851220: Other lighting or visual signaling equipment.
• Chapter 94: Furniture; bedding, mattresses, supportings, lamps or lighting fittings, prefabricated buildings.
• Heading 9405: Luminaires and lighting fittings including searchlights and spotlights and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included.
• Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
• Heading 8539: Electrical filament or discharge lamps, including sealed beam lamp units and ultraviolet or infrared lamps; arc lamps; light-emitting diode (LED) light sources; parts thereof.

Proactive Suggestions:

Regarding HS code 9405612000 and 9405614000, the description specifies "Designed for use solely with light-emitting diode (LED) light sources". Ensure the signs are indeed exclusively compatible with LED light sources to avoid misclassification.