3D Greeting Card
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4823903100 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823905000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4911914040 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4911998000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π¨ 3D Greeting Card (Paper Craft & Printed Materials)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Truly Understand "3D Greeting Cards"?
A 3D Greeting Card is not just a piece of paper; it is a complex structural engineering feat combined with graphic arts. In international trade, it sits at the intersection of Paper/Board Articles and Printed Matter.
The core distinction lies in its physical state and primary function: 1. Structural 3D Cards (Pop-ups, Mechanisms): These rely on intricate folding, cutting, and layering techniques to create depth. They are primarily classified under Chapter 48 (Paper & Paperboard). 2. Flat Printed Cards: If the card is flat and its primary value is the printed image/text, it may fall under Chapter 49 (Printed Books, Newspapers, Pictures, Designs).
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If the productβs unique selling point is its 3D mechanical structure (pop-up, pull-tab, die-cut layers) β Classify under 4823.90.xxxx (Paper Articles).
- If the product is flat or 3D elements are negligible/minor compared to the printed artwork β Classify under 4911.xxxx (Printed Materials).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
4823.90.31.00 |
3D Paper Greeting Card: Structural paper articles, specifically defined as "Other paper articles" featuringη«δ½ (3D) forms | Pop-up cards, complex die-cut structures, mechanical greeting cards | β Focus on Structure: The 3D form is the dominant feature. |
4823.90.50.00 |
Paper Greeting Card: Standard paper/cardboard card articles, fitting the logic of paper/board articles | Flat or slightly folded cards made of paperboard, general greeting cards | β Focus on Material: Generic paper/cardboard article, no complex 3D mechanism. |
4911.91.40.40 |
Paper Printed Matter: Other printed matter, pictures, designs, and photographs (excluding specific categories) | High-quality illustrated flat cards, art cards where printing is the main value | β Focus on Content: Primarily viewed as printed imagery. |
4911.99.80.00 |
Paper Printed Matter: Other printed matter, specific forms under "Other printed articles" | Miscellaneous printed paper goods not fitting other specific printed categories | β Focus on Residual Category: General printed paper items. |
π Key Reminder:
- Structural Integrity Matters: If a card has moving parts or significant depth created by paper folding/cutting, customs often prefer 4823 over 4911, even if it has high-quality printing.
- Packaging Separation: Ensure the card is not packed with electronic elements (e.g., music boxes, lights) as this would shift it to Chapter 85 or 92. If purely paper, stick to 48/49.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 4823.90.31.00 & 4823.90.50.00 ββ Paper/Cardboard Articles (3D & Flat Greeting Cards)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligibility | β NO (Denied) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:4823.90.31.00/50.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- "USITC 25%": Derived from Section 301 duties on Chinese goods.
- "IEEPA 10%": The new "122 Clause" tariff targeting specific Chinese imports, effective from late 2025.
- Total 35% is a high barrier for low-margin paper products. Must be factored into pricing strategies.
π― 2. 4911.91.40.40 & 4911.99.80.00 ββ Printed Paper Matter (Flat/Printed Cards)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligibility | β NO (Denied) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:4911.91.40.40/99.80.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Lower Rate: Classified as "Printed Matter" attracts a lower Section 301 rate (7.5% vs 25%).
- Risk: Misclassifying a 3D structural card as "Printed Matter" to save 17.5% is a major compliance risk. Customs may audit structural complexity.
- Strategy: Use4911only if the card is truly flat or the 3D aspect is minimal/decorative rather than structural.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Detailed description: "Pop-up Card," "Die-cut," "Flat Card." Include dimensions and paper weight. |
| β High-Res Photos | βοΈ | Front, back, inside (opened), and side view to prove 3D structure if claiming 4823. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Paper Greeting Card, 3D Pop-up Structure" or "Printed Greeting Card, Flat." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions of packaging. |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | To prove origin (China) for tariff calculation. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Structure Dictates Code, Print Dictates Value: Be Precise, Avoid Penalties!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complex 3D Pop-Up Card | 4823.90.31.00 |
Misdeclare as "Printed Card" (4911) |
Audit Risk: Customs may reclassify and charge the difference (17.5% vs 35%) + penalties. |
| Standard Flat Card | 4911.91.40.40 |
Misdeclare as "3D Card" (4823) |
Overpayment: Pay 35% instead of 17.5%. |
| Card with Electronic Component | 8528 or 9208 |
Declare as pure paper | Confiscation: Wrong chapter classification. |
| Bulky Box Packaging | Separate Declaration | Include box weight in CIF without note | Valuation Adjustment: Customs may adjust value. |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipments | If shipping both 3D (4823) and Flat (4911) cards, declare separately. Do not lump them under one HS code. |
| Gift Sets | If the card is part of a gift set (e.g., card + chocolate + pen), the essential character determines classification. Usually, if the card is dominant, 4823/4911; if chocolate dominates, 1806. |
| Sample vs. Commercial | Both are subject to the same tariffs. "Sample" labels do not exempt you from the 35%/17.5% rates if the value exceeds de minimis thresholds (which are denied for these codes anyway). |
| Artistic Cards | If the card is sold as "Art Print" on thick cardstock, argue for 4911. If itβs a "Greeting Card" with mechanism, argue for 4823. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4823.90.31.00 (3D)4911.91.40.40 (Flat) |
35% (3D) 17.5% (Flat) |
None specific for paper | High Tariff Risk: IEEPA 122 Clause applies. |
| π¨π³ China | 4823.90 / 4911.99 |
~5-6% | None | Import duty for Chinese goods into China is low, but focus is usually on export. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4823.90 / 4911.99 |
0-4% | FSC/PEFC (Sustainability) | No Section 301/IEEPA equivalents. Focus on eco-certifications. |
| π¬π§ UK | 4823.90 / 4911.99 |
0-4% | UKCA (if mixed) | Post-Brexit rules align with EU mostly for paper. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 4823.90 / 4911.99 |
0% | None | CUSMA benefits if eligible. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the toughest market due to the combination of Section 301 and the new IEEPA 122 Clause.
- Margin Compression: For low-cost greeting cards, a 35% tariff can wipe out all profit. Consider pricing adjustments or alternative origin strategies if possible.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons from Experience)
β Error 1: Declaring all greeting cards under 4911 to save 17.5%
π Consequence: If customs inspects and finds complex 3D mechanics, they will reclassify to 4823, demand the additional 17.5%, plus fines and storage fees.
β Error 2: Ignoring the "122 Clause" IEEPA Tariff
π Consequence: Many exporters only calculated the 301 duty (25% or 7.5%). The extra 10% from the 122 Clause (effective late 2025) is now mandatory. Under-declaration leads to seizures.
β Error 3: Vague Description: "Greeting Card"
π Consequence: Customs officers may arbitrarily choose the higher tariff rate or require detailed breakdowns, causing port delays.
β Correct Practice:
"3D Paper Greeting Card, Pop-up Style, Die-cut Layers, Cardstock Material, No Electronic Components, Model XYZ"
HS Code: 4823.90.31.00 | Tariff: 35%
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision Classification, Profit Protection!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Structure = 4823 (35%) | Print = 4911 (17.5%)"
πΉ "122 Clause is Here: Don't Forget the Extra 10%!"
πΉ "Be Honest About Structure, Avoid Re-classification Fines!"
π Pro Tip:
If your business volume is high, consider applying for a Section 301 Exclusion or IEEPA Waiver if eligible, or explore supply chain diversification (e.g., sourcing from Vietnam or Thailand) to avoid the 35%/17.5% combined tariff burden in the US market.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker + Provide Detailed Product Photos + Pre-classify HS Codes
π Let your greeting cards clear customs smoothly, protect margins, and reach customers on time!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar of Tariff is a Dollar of Margin β Calculate It Precisely!
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About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.