HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3926909989 | Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: --> Other: --> Other --> Other | Doc | 42.8% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
3901901000 | Polymers of ethylene, in primary forms: --> Other: --> Elastomeric | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
5603941090 | Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated: --> Other: --> Weighing more than 150 g/m<sup>2</sup>: --> Floor covering underlays --> Other | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, let's break down the HS codes and tax implications for your "ACOUSTIC FOAM PANELS" declaration. Here's a structured analysis to help you understand the classification and potential costs:
Understanding HS Codes – A Quick Primer
HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are internationally standardized codes used to classify traded products. The first 6 digits are generally consistent worldwide, while additional digits are used for more specific categorization by individual countries. Here's how to read them:
- Chapter (First 2 digits): Broad category of the product.
- Heading (First 4 digits): More specific grouping within the chapter.
- Subheading (First 6 digits): Even more detailed classification.
- Additional Digits: Country-specific refinements.
Analysis of Your HS Codes
Let's examine each code provided:
1. HS Code: 3926.90.99.89 – Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: --> Other: --> Other --> Other
- 39: Plastics and articles thereof (This is your Chapter – indicating the product contains plastic).
- 26: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials.
- 90: Other. This suggests the panels don't fit neatly into more specific plastic article categories.
- 99.89: Further "Other" classification. This is a very broad category, often used for items that don't have a precise match elsewhere.
- Tax Implications:
- Basic Duty: 5.3%
- Additional Duty: 7.5%
- Post-April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 42.8%
Important Note: Because this code is so broad ("Other"), customs officials may request very detailed information about the panel's composition, manufacturing process, and intended use to ensure correct classification.
2. HS Code: 3901.90.10.00 – Polymers of ethylene, in primary forms: --> Other: --> Elastomeric
- 39: Plastics and articles thereof.
- 01: Polymers of ethylene (like polyethylene). This suggests the panels are made from polyethylene in its raw form (pellets, granules, etc.).
- 90: Other polymers of ethylene.
- 10.00: Elastomeric forms. This indicates the polyethylene has elastic properties.
- Tax Implications:
- Basic Duty: 0.0%
- Additional Duty: 25.0%
- Post-April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 55.0%
Important Note: This code implies the panels are being imported as the raw material for manufacturing, not as finished acoustic panels.
3. HS Code: 5603.94.10.90 – Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated: --> Other: --> Weighing more than 150 g/m2: --> Floor covering underlays --> Other
- 56: Plastics and articles thereof.
- 03: Nonwovens (fabrics made from fibers, not woven).
- 94: Other nonwovens.
- 10.90: Weighing more than 150 g/m2, floor covering underlays, other.
- Tax Implications:
- Basic Duty: 0.0%
- Additional Duty: 25.0%
- Post-April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%.
- Total Tax: 55.0%
Important Note: This code suggests the panels are made of a nonwoven material, potentially used as a backing or core component.
Recommendations & Next Steps
- Material Composition: Crucially, determine the exact material composition of your acoustic foam panels. Are they primarily plastic (polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.), a combination of materials, or a nonwoven fabric? This will be the biggest factor in choosing the correct HS code.
- Manufacturing Process: How are the panels made? Are you importing raw materials to manufacture them yourself, or are these finished goods?
- Intended Use: While you've stated "acoustic panels," provide a detailed description of their application (e.g., soundproofing studios, home theaters, industrial noise reduction).
- Single Declaration: Are you declaring all components of the panel under a single HS code, or are you declaring each material separately?
- Certifications: Depending on the intended use and country of import, you may need certifications related to fire resistance, sound absorption, or environmental standards. Check the import regulations of your destination country.
- Valuation: Ensure your declared value (single price) is accurate and reflects the true transaction value.
- Post-April 2, 2025 Duty Increase: Be aware of the significant duty increases coming into effect on April 2, 2025. Plan your imports accordingly.
Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive customs classification advice. This information is for general guidance only. It is highly recommended to consult with a licensed customs broker or the customs authority in your destination country for accurate classification and compliance.