4L Mini Fridge
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8418100010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8418210010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ 4L Mini Fridge (Mini Refrigerators)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "4L Mini Fridge"?
A 4L Mini Fridge is a compact, household-type refrigeration appliance with a very small volume. In international trade, the classification hinges entirely on its refrigerating volume (under 184 liters) and its compression type.
Key Characteristics for Classification: * Type: Household refrigerators (not industrial or commercial). * Volume: Under 184 liters (4L falls well within this threshold). * Mechanism: Compression type (using a compressor and refrigerant loop). * Structure: Can be a single-door unit, or a combined refrigerator-freezer with separate external doors/drawers.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the unit has a refrigerated volume UNDER 184 Liters, it falls under 8418.10 or 8418.21.
- If the unit has a refrigerated volume OVER 184 Liters, it would fall under different subheadings (not covered in this specific DATA, but typically higher duty or different codes).
- Do not confuse with "Refrigerating/Freezing Furniture" (HS 9403): If it is a standalone appliance with mechanical refrigeration, it is 8418, not furniture.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Alignment)
Based on the provided data, the 4L Mini Fridge is classified under two closely related codes depending on specific structural design (combined vs. single household). Both share the same tax structure.
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Condition | Refrigerated Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
8418.10.00.10 |
Combined refrigerator-freezers, fitted with separate external doors or drawers | Combinations of fridges/freezers in one unit | Under |
8418.21.00.10 |
Refrigerators, household type: Compression type | Standalone household fridge (no freezer compartment or integrated freezer) | Under |
π Key Reminder:
- Both codes specify "Compression type".
- Both codes have a strict volume limit: Under 184 Liters.
- A 4L unit is well below this limit, so it qualifies for these specific subheadings.
- Tax Rate: Both codes have the same tax structure as per the provided data.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Assumed based on typical context of such tax queries; if origin differs, consult local customs)
β Effective Time: Current as per provided data
π― 1. 8418.10.00.10 & 8418.21.00.10 ββ Mini Fridges (Under 184L)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301/Other) | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable (Generally, appliances do not qualify for de minimis if duties apply, but check specific US customs rules for low-value shipments) |
| Legal Basis | Based on provided tariff schedule: "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 25.0%" |
π Explanation:
- The base tariff is 0%, which is favorable for standard imports.
- However, an additional 25% surtax applies. This is likely due to Section 301 tariffs targeting Chinese-origin goods, which commonly affect appliances like refrigerators.
- Total Effective Duty: 25%. This is a significant cost to factor into pricing.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Mini Refrigerator, 4L, Compression Type" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include weight, dimensions, and quantity |
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Confirm volume (<184L) and type (Compression) |
| β Certifications | βοΈ | UL/ETL (US Safety), Energy Star (if claimed), FCC (for control electronics) |
| β Bill of Lading/Air Waybill | βοΈ | Standard shipping docs |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | If claiming any preferential treatment (not applicable here due to 25% surtax, but still required for origin declaration) |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ βVolume Under 184, Compression Type, 25% Surcharge, Donβt Forget!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4L Mini Fridge (Under 184L) | 8418.10.00.10 or 8418.21.00.10 |
8418.69.00 (Other appliances) |
Underpayment + Penalties |
| Mini Fridge (Over 184L) | Different HS Code (Not in provided data) | 8418.10.00.10 |
Misclassification + Penalties |
| Portable Thermoelectric Cooler (No Compressor) | 8418.69.00 (Likely) |
8418.10.00.10 |
Overpayment + Delay |
π Note on Type:
- Ensure the product is Compression Type. If it is a thermoelectric (Peltier) cooler (common in 4L portable car fridges), it does NOT fall under 8418.10/21. It may fall under 8418.69 or other headings.
- Double-check: If the 4L unit uses a fan or semiconductor cooling, do not use 8418.10.00.10.
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Portable 4L Car Fridge (Thermoelectric) | β Not 8418.10/21. Likely 8418.69. Tax may differ. Verify mechanism. |
| Refrigerator with Freezer (Combined) | Use 8418.10.00.10 if combined, even if small. |
| Standalone Fridge (No Freezer) | Use 8418.21.00.10. |
| Gift Sample (Low Value) | Check de minimis rules ($800 in US). If value < $800, duties may be exempt, but declaration still required. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8418.10.00.10 / 8418.21.00.10 |
25% | 0% base + 25% surtax. High impact on cost. |
| π¨π³ China | 8418.10.00.10 / 8418.21.00.10 |
~10-15% | Import duty varies. VAT 13% applies. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8418.21 / 8418.29 |
~0-4% | No surtax, but VAT applies. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8418.21 / 8418.29 |
~0-4% | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8418.21 / 8418.29 |
~5% | GST 10% applies. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to the 25% additional duty.
- Ensure accurate volume declaration (<184L) to avoid misclassification.
- Compression type is mandatory for these codes.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying a thermoelectric 4L cooler as a compression fridge.
π Result: Wrong HS Code β 25% Surcharge applied incorrectly or rejected by customs.
β
Fix: Verify if it has a compressor. If no compressor, use different code.
β Error 2: Declaring volume as 184L or more.
π Result: Falls under different, potentially higher-duty subheadings.
β
Fix: Provide proof of volume (specs sheet) showing <184L.
β Error 3: Omitting "Compression Type" in description.
π Result: Customs may ask for clarification or assign a default higher-duty code.
β
Fix: Always state "Compression Type Refrigerator" in invoice.
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Clearance, Cost Efficiency!
π― Key Takeaways:
πΉ 4L < 184L β Qualifies for 8418.10.00.10 or 8418.21.00.10.
πΉ Compression Type is required.
πΉ Total Duty: 25% (0% Base + 25% Surtax).
πΉ Verify Mechanism: If not compression (e.g., thermoelectric), DO NOT USE these codes.
π Pro Tip:
For USA imports, the 25% surtax is significant. Consider:
1. Supplier Negotiation: Absorb or share cost.
2. Supply Chain Diversification: If possible, source from non-China origins to avoid surtax.
3. Pre-Ruling: Request a Customs Ruling from US CBP to confirm HS Code before shipment.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm compression type and exact volume with supplier.
π Prepare spec sheet and certifications (UL/FCC).
π Declare accurately as 8418.10.00.10 or 8418.21.00.10 to avoid delays.
β¨ Accurate Classification Saves 25%!
πΌ Every Percent Counts in Global Trade!
Customer Reviews
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.