Find HS Code and trade information for toothpicks set

Toothpicks Set

A toothpick set is a collection of small, pointed wooden sticks designed for removing debris from between teeth. These sets commonly include the toothpicks themselves, often packaged with additional tools or in a container for portability and hygiene.

Material:

• Wood: The primary material is typically birch wood, bamboo, or other hardwood species. Birch is favored for its strength, flexibility, and smooth finish. Bamboo is a more sustainable option, known for its rapid growth and natural antibacterial properties. Plastic toothpicks also exist, though less common due to environmental concerns and potential for breakage.
• Containers: Sets may include containers made of plastic, metal (stainless steel, aluminum), glass, or wood.

Purpose:

The primary purpose is dental hygiene – specifically, the removal of food particles and plaque from areas inaccessible to toothbrush bristles. They can also be used for various other purposes (see 'Other Uses' below).

Function:

Toothpicks function by physically dislodging debris trapped between teeth. They are inserted gently between teeth and used to carefully extract food remnants. Some toothpicks feature a waxed or flavored coating for ease of use and breath freshening.

Usage Scenarios:

• Post-Meal: Most commonly used after eating to remove food particles.
• On-the-Go: Portable sets are convenient for use after meals when a toothbrush isn't available.
• Dental Care Routine: Some individuals incorporate toothpicks into their daily oral hygiene regimen.
• Cooking/Food Presentation: Used for testing food doneness, creating garnishes, or serving small appetizers.

Common Types:

• Standard Wooden Toothpicks: The most common type, typically round or flat, available in various lengths.
• Waxed Toothpicks: Coated with wax for increased smoothness and ease of insertion.
• Flavored Toothpicks: Waxed toothpicks infused with flavors like mint, cinnamon, or other breath-freshening agents.
• Plastic Toothpicks: Less common, often used for serving food. May be disposable or reusable.
• Toothpick Flags: Small toothpicks with decorative flags attached, used for appetizers or snacks.
• Dental Picks: Toothpicks with a curved or angled end for more targeted cleaning. Often made of plastic or metal.
• Sets with Accessories: Some sets include additional tools like dental floss, interdental brushes, or a toothpick holder.

Other Uses:

Beyond dental hygiene, toothpicks have a variety of applications:

• Cooking: Testing the doneness of baked goods, securing olives or cherries, creating garnishes.
• Crafts: Used in miniature building, model making, or other artistic projects.
• Cleaning: Removing dirt from small crevices or applying glue precisely.
• Cocktail Garnishes: Holding olives, cherries, or other garnishes in cocktails.

Based on the material, use, and application, a “toothpicks set” falls under articles typically made of plastics and used for hygienic purposes.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 3924104000: Tableware, kitchenware, other household articles and hygienic or toilet articles, of plastics: Tableware and kitchenware: Other. This code encompasses household articles, including hygienic or toilet articles made of plastics. Toothpicks, often used for oral hygiene, would fall under this classification. The basic tariff is 3.4%, with a 0.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 33.4%.

• 4601990500: Plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, whether or not assembled into strips; plaiting materials, plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, bound together in parallel strands or woven, in sheet form, whether or not being finished articles (for example, mats, matting, screens): Other: Other: Plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, whether or not assembled into strips. While less common, if the toothpicks are made from plaiting materials, this code could apply. The basic tariff is 2.7%, with a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 57.7%.

• 4601999000: Plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, whether or not assembled into strips; plaiting materials, plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, bound together in parallel strands or woven, in sheet form, whether or not being finished articles (for example, mats, matting, screens): Other: Other: Other. This is a broader category for plaits and similar products. The basic tariff is 3.3%, with a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 58.3%.

• 4602900000: Basketwork, wickerwork and other articles, made directly to shape from plaiting materials or made up from articles of heading 4601; articles of loofah: Other. If the toothpicks are made using basketwork or wickerwork techniques from plaiting materials, this code could be applicable. The basic tariff is 3.5%, with a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 58.5%.

It is important to determine the material composition of the toothpicks to select the most accurate HS code. If made of plastic, 3924104000 is the most appropriate. If made from plaiting materials, consider 4601990500, 4601999000, or 4602900000.