Find product classification and trade information for SILICONE WATER BOTTLE

Okay, let's break down the HS codes and tax implications for your "SILICONE WATER BOTTLE" declaration. Here's a detailed analysis, aiming for clarity and actionable advice:

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 generally mean:

• Chapter (First 2 digits): Broad category of the product.
• Heading (Next 2 digits): More specific grouping within the chapter.
• Subheading (Next 2 digits): Further refinement of the product.
• Last Digits: National-level specification (varies by country).

Analysis of Your HS Codes

You've provided three potential HS codes. Let's examine each one and assess its suitability for a silicone water bottle:

1. HS Code: 3926.90.99.89 – "Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Other"

• Chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof. This is a strong initial fit, as silicone is a type of plastic.
• Heading 39.26: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials. This is a broad category.
• Subheading 39.26.90: Other. This suggests the bottle doesn't fall into a more specific plastic category.

• Last Digits (89): Further unspecified "Other".

  • Tax:

    • Basic Duty: 5.3%
    • Additional Duty: 7.5%
    • Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30%
    • Total Tax: 42.8%

  • Suitability: This is likely the most appropriate HS code if the bottle is primarily made of silicone and doesn't have significant components of other materials. However, the "Other" classification can sometimes lead to customs scrutiny.

2. HS Code: 7310.29.00.65 – "Tanks, casks, drums, cans, boxes and similar containers, for any material (other than compressed or liquefied gas), of iron or steel, of a capacity not exceeding 300 liters, whether or not lined or heat insulated, but not fitted with mechanical or thermal equipment: Of a capacity of less than 50 liters: Other Other: Other"

• Chapter 73: Iron or steel articles. This is unlikely to be correct unless your water bottle has a significant iron or steel component (e.g., a steel lid or base).
• Heading 73.10: Tanks, casks, drums, cans, boxes. This is clearly not a water bottle.

• Tax:

  • Basic Duty: 0.0%
  • Additional Duty: 25.0%
  • Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30% (for steel/aluminum products)

  • Total Tax: 80.0%

  • Suitability: This HS code is incorrect for a silicone water bottle. It's for metal containers.

3. HS Code: 9506.99.60.80 – "Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports (including table-tennis) or outdoor games, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; swimming pools and wading pools; parts and accessories thereof: Other: Other: Other Other"

• Chapter 95: Toys, games and sports equipment. This could be applicable if the water bottle is specifically marketed as sports equipment (e.g., a sports bottle for athletes).
• Heading 95.06: Articles for sports.

• Tax:

  • Basic Duty: 4.0%
  • Additional Duty: 7.5%
  • Post April 2, 2025: Additional Duty increases to 30% (for steel/aluminum products)

  • Total Tax: 66.5%

  • Suitability: This HS code is potentially applicable, but less likely than 3926.90.99.89 unless the bottle is clearly marketed as sports equipment.

Recommendations & Key Considerations

1. Primary Material: Confirm the primary material composition. If the bottle is overwhelmingly silicone, HS code 3926.90.99.89 is the most appropriate.

2. Marketing & Function: If the bottle is specifically marketed for sports/exercise, HS code 9506.99.60.80 could be considered, but be prepared to justify this classification.

3. Components: If the bottle has significant non-silicone components (e.g., a metal lid, plastic parts), this could influence the HS code.

4. Customs Ruling (Highly Recommended): To avoid potential issues, consider obtaining a binding customs ruling from the import authorities. This provides legal certainty on the correct HS code.

5. Value Declaration: Ensure the declared value is accurate. Customs may scrutinize the value if it seems unusually low.

6. Post April 2, 2025 Tariffs: Be aware of the increased additional tariffs coming into effect on April 2, 2025.

To help me refine the recommendation, could you please tell me:

• What is the exact material composition of the bottle (percentage of silicone vs. other materials)?
• How is the bottle marketed (e.g., general-purpose water bottle, sports bottle, etc.)?
• Are there any significant non-silicone components?

Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive customs advice. This information is for general guidance only. You should consult with a qualified customs broker or import specialist for specific advice tailored to your situation.