| HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8516402000 | Electric flatirons: Travel type | Doc | 30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 851640 | Electric flatirons; | Doc | Error | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8545904000 | Carbon electrodes, carbon brushes, lamp carbons, battery carbons and other articles of graphite or other carbon, with or without metal, of a kind used for electrical purposes: Other: Other | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, here's a breakdown of the HS codes you provided for your "HAIR STRAIGHTENER" declarations, along with explanations, potential issues, and recommendations. I'll focus on clarity and practical advice for customs clearance.
Understanding HS Codes: A Quick Primer
HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are internationally standardized codes used to classify traded products. They determine the import duties and taxes you'll pay. Here's how the codes are structured (using 8516.40.20.00 as an example):
- First 2 digits (85): Chapter – Broad category. "85" signifies "Electrical machinery and equipment."
- First 4 digits (8516): Heading – More specific grouping. "8516" means "Electrical instant or heating apparatus and electric space heating apparatus of a kind not specified elsewhere."
- First 6 digits (8516.40): Subheading – Further refinement. "8516.40" specifies "Hair-dressing apparatus (including tondeuses, clippers, electric razors) and for manicure or pedicure, including nail filing apparatus."
- Full Code (8516.40.20.00): Specific item. "8516.40.20.00" is for "Travel type hair-dressing apparatus."
Analysis of Your Declarations
Let's break down each item individually:
1. Electric flatirons: Travel type – HS Code: 8516.40.20.00
- Chapter: 85 (Electrical machinery and equipment) – Correct.
- Heading: 8516 (Heating apparatus) – Correct.
- Subheading: 8516.40 (Hair-dressing apparatus) – Correct.
- Specific Item: 8516.40.20.00 (Travel type hair-dressing apparatus) – Seems appropriate if these are specifically designed for travel (e.g., dual voltage, foldable design, compact size).
- Tax:
- Current Tax: 0.0% Basic Tariff + 0.0% Additional Tariff = 0.0%
- Post April 2, 2025: 0.0% Basic Tariff + 30% Additional Tariff = 30%
- Recommendation: Verify that these truly meet the definition of "travel type." If they are standard hair straighteners, a different code might be more accurate.
2. Electric flatirons; – HS Code: 8516.40
- Chapter: 85 (Electrical machinery and equipment) – Correct.
- Heading: 8516 (Heating apparatus) – Correct.
- Subheading: 8516.40 (Hair-dressing apparatus) – Correct.
- Tax: "Failed to retrieve tax information" – This is a problem. You need a specific tax rate. The 8516.40 code is too broad. You need to classify further (e.g., 8516.40.10 for household use, etc.).
- Recommendation: You MUST provide a more specific HS code within the 8516.40 range. The lack of tax information will cause delays and potential issues with customs. Consider the intended use (household, professional, travel) and features of the straighteners.
3. Carbon electrodes, carbon brushes, lamp carbons, battery carbons and other articles of graphite or other carbon, with or without metal, of a kind used for electrical purposes: Other: Other – HS Code: 8545.90.40.00
- Chapter: 85 (Electrical machinery and equipment) – Seems incorrect. This code is for carbon articles used in electrical equipment, not the equipment itself.
- Heading: 8545 (Carbon electrodes, carbon brushes, lamp carbons, etc.) – Incorrect for hair straighteners.
- Subheading: 8545.90 (Other) – Incorrect.
- Tax:
- Current Tax: 0.0% Basic Tariff + 25% Additional Tariff = 25%
- Post April 2, 2025: 0.0% Basic Tariff + 30% Additional Tariff = 30%
- Recommendation: This HS code is almost certainly incorrect for hair straighteners. It appears to be for components used in electrical devices, not the device itself. You should be using a code within the 8516 range. Double-check your product description and intended use.
Important Reminders & Next Steps:
- Material Composition: The material of the heating plates (ceramic, tourmaline, titanium) could influence the HS code, though it's less common.
- Voltage/Power: The voltage and power rating might be relevant for some classifications.
- Intended Use: Household, professional, or travel use is a key factor.
- Certification: Depending on the destination country, you may need certifications (e.g., CE, RoHS, UL) to demonstrate safety and compliance. Check the import regulations of the country you are shipping to.
- Consult a Customs Broker: If you are unsure, it's highly recommended to consult a licensed customs broker in the destination country. They can provide expert guidance and ensure accurate classification.
- Official Tariff Database: Always refer to the official tariff database of the importing country for the most up-to-date information.
To help me refine the classification further, please provide:
- Detailed product descriptions: Include features, materials, intended use, and voltage/power ratings.
- Destination country: Import regulations vary significantly.
Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive customs advice. This information is for general guidance only. Always consult official sources and a qualified customs broker for accurate classification and compliance.