Find HS Code and trade information for white paper cup

White Paper Cup

A white paper cup is a disposable cup made of paper, typically coated with polyethylene to prevent leakage. They are widely used for serving beverages, both hot and cold, in various settings.

Material:

• Paper: The primary component is paper, often sourced from wood pulp. The grade of paper varies, influencing the cup’s thickness and strength.
• Polyethylene (PE) Coating: A thin layer of polyethylene is applied to the interior of the cup to provide a waterproof barrier. This coating prevents liquids from soaking into the paper. Some cups utilize a polyethylene lining on both sides for enhanced rigidity and insulation.
• Optional Coatings: Some cups feature additional coatings for specific purposes, such as a wax coating for improved water resistance or a bioplastic lining for compostability.

Purpose:

• Beverage Service: Primarily designed for single-use service of hot or cold drinks, including coffee, tea, water, juice, soda, and other beverages.
• Hygiene: Offer a sanitary alternative to reusable cups, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
• Convenience: Provide a quick and easy solution for serving drinks in situations where washing reusable cups is impractical.

Function:

• Containment: Holds liquids without leaking, thanks to the polyethylene coating.
• Insulation: Offers a degree of thermal insulation, though the level varies based on the cup’s construction (single-wall, double-wall, etc.). Double-walled cups provide significantly better insulation.
• Structural Support: Maintains its shape while filled with liquid, allowing for easy handling.

Usage Scenarios:

• Coffee Shops & Cafés: A standard option for takeaway coffee and tea.
• Fast Food Restaurants: Used for serving cold beverages.
• Events & Catering: Convenient for serving drinks at large gatherings.
• Offices & Workplaces: Provide disposable cups for employees and visitors.
• Home Use: For parties, picnics, or general convenience.

Common Types:

• Single-Wall Cups: Consist of a single layer of paper with a PE coating. Suitable for cold beverages or briefly holding hot drinks. Offer minimal insulation.
• Double-Wall Cups: Feature two layers of paper with a PE coating, creating an air gap for improved insulation. Better suited for hot beverages and longer holding times.
• Ripple Wall Cups: A variation of double-wall cups with a corrugated layer between the paper layers, providing enhanced insulation and grip.
• Insulated Cups: May include additional insulation layers or materials for maximum thermal performance.
• Custom Printed Cups: Often feature logos, branding, or other designs for promotional purposes.
• Compostable Cups: Made with plant-based materials and coatings designed to break down in commercial composting facilities (PLA lining is common). Note: require specific composting conditions.
• Cold Drink Cups: Often made with thinner paper and may include a wax coating.
• Hot Drink Cups: Typically double-walled and designed to withstand higher temperatures.

The declared goods, “white paper cup,” fall under several potential classifications based on material and intended use. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 4823610020: This code covers “Other paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibers, cut to size or shape; other articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers: Trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like, of paper or paperboard: Of bamboo Cups and round nested food containers”. This is applicable if the cup is made of bamboo paper. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 4823690020: This code covers “Other paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibers, cut to size or shape; other articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers: Trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like, of paper or paperboard: Other Cups and round nested food containers”. This is applicable if the cup is made of paper or paperboard, but not bamboo. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 3923900080: This code covers “Articles for the conveyance or packing of goods, of plastics; stoppers, lids, caps and other closures, of plastics: Other Other”. If the cup has a plastic lining or coating, or a plastic lid, this code may be relevant. The total tax rate is 58.0%, comprised of a 3.0% base tariff and a 25.0% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.

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

• Chapter 48: Relates to paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibers.
• Heading 4823: Specifically covers articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers.
• Subheading 482361: Further defines trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like, of paper or paperboard, made of bamboo.
• Subheading 482369: Further defines trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like, of paper or paperboard, not made of bamboo.
• Chapter 39: Relates to plastics and articles thereof.
• Heading 3923: Specifically covers articles for the conveyance or packing of goods, of plastics.
• Subheading 392390: Further defines other articles of plastics.

Important Note:

The applicable HS code depends on the precise material composition of the cup. If the cup has a plastic lining or coating, or a plastic lid, HS code 3923900080 may be applicable in addition to, or instead of, HS code 4823610020 or 4823690020.