| HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3925900000 | Builders' ware of plastics, not elsewhere specified or included: Other | Doc | 60.3% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9603904000 | Brooms, brushes (including brushes constituting parts of machines, appliances or vehicles), hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers, not motorized, mops and feather dusters; prepared knots and tufts for broom or brush making; paint pads and rollers; squeegees (other than roller squeegees): Other: Feather dusters | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9603908050 | Brooms, brushes (including brushes constituting parts of machines, appliances or vehicles), hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers, not motorized, mops and feather dusters; prepared knots and tufts for broom or brush making; paint pads and rollers; squeegees (other than roller squeegees): Other: Other Other | Doc | 65.3% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 7323999080 | Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of iron or steel; iron or steel wool; pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like, of iron or steel: Other: Other: Not coated or plated with precious metal: Other: Other Other | Doc | 83.4% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, let's break down the HS code classifications and tax implications for your "FOAM FLOOR SQUEEGEE" import from China. Here's a detailed analysis, structured for clarity:
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 the last digits can vary by country. Here's what the digits typically mean:
- Chapter (First 2 digits): Broad category of the product.
- Heading (First 4 digits): More specific classification within the chapter.
- Subheading (First 6 digits): Even more detailed classification.
- National Code (Last 2-4 digits): Country-specific refinement.
Analysis of Your HS Code Options
Here's a breakdown of each HS code provided, along with my assessment of which is most likely correct, and important considerations:
1. 3925.90.00.00 – Builders' ware of plastics, not elsewhere specified or included: Other
- Chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof.
- Heading 3925: Builders' ware (e.g., fittings, pipes, profiles) of plastics.
- Subheading 3925.90: Other builders' ware of plastics.
- Tax: Base Tariff: 5.3%, Additional Tariff: 25.0%, Total Tariff: 60.3% (Additional Tariff will be 30% after April 2, 2025)
- Assessment: This code could apply if the squeegee is primarily considered a plastic building component (e.g., used in construction or flooring installation). However, it's less likely if it's a general household cleaning tool.
2. 9603.90.40.00 – Brooms, brushes…squeegees: Other: Feather dusters
- Chapter 96: Miscellaneous manufactured articles.
- Heading 9603: Brooms, brushes, etc.
- Subheading 9603.90: Other brooms, brushes, etc.
- Tax: Base Tariff: 0.0%, Additional Tariff: 7.5%, Total Tariff: 37.5% (Additional Tariff will be 30% after April 2, 2025)
- Assessment: This code is specifically for feather dusters. It's incorrect for a foam floor squeegee.
3. 9603.90.80.50 – Brooms, brushes…squeegees: Other: Other Other
- Chapter 96: Miscellaneous manufactured articles.
- Heading 9603: Brooms, brushes, etc.
- Subheading 9603.90: Other brooms, brushes, etc.
- Tax: Base Tariff: 2.8%, Additional Tariff: 7.5%, Total Tariff: 65.3% (Additional Tariff will be 30% after April 2, 2025, and steel/aluminum products have an additional tariff of 25%)
- Assessment: This is the most likely correct code. "Other" squeegees fall under this category. However, pay close attention to the note about steel/aluminum products. If the squeegee contains significant steel or aluminum components, the 25% additional tariff will apply.
4. 7323.99.90.80 – Table, kitchen…squeegees: Other: Other: Not coated or plated with precious metal: Other: Other Other
- Chapter 73: Articles of iron or steel.
- Heading 7323: Table, kitchen or household articles of iron or steel.
- Subheading 7323.99: Other articles of iron or steel.
- Tax: Base Tariff: 3.4%, Additional Tariff: 25.0%, Total Tariff: 83.4% (Additional Tariff will be 30% after April 2, 2025, and steel/aluminum products have an additional tariff of 25%)
- Assessment: This code is for iron or steel household articles. It's unlikely to be correct unless the squeegee is entirely made of iron or steel and is considered a kitchen/household item.
Recommendations & Next Steps
- Material Composition: Crucially, determine the primary material of the squeegee. Is it mostly plastic, or does it contain significant amounts of steel or aluminum? This will determine the correct code.
- Intended Use: Is it specifically for kitchen use, or is it a general floor cleaning tool?
- Check with Customs: The best course of action is to consult with Chinese Customs or a qualified import broker. Provide them with a detailed description of the squeegee and its materials.
- April 2, 2025 Tariff Changes: Be aware of the upcoming tariff changes on April 2, 2025. Factor these into your cost calculations.
- Certification: Depending on the material and intended use, you may need specific certifications (e.g., for food contact if used in a kitchen).
In summary, I recommend starting with HS code 9603.90.80.50, but verify the material composition and consult with customs to ensure accuracy. Incorrect classification can lead to delays, fines, and unexpected costs.