Arrow Fletching
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9506990520 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9506990530 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926400010 | 15.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926903500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
πΉ Arrow Fletching (Arrows and Arrow Parts)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Arrow Fletching"?
Arrow fletching refers to the vanes or feathers attached to the rear of an arrow shaft. Their primary function is to stabilize the arrow in flight through aerodynamic spin and drag. In international trade, these are not classified as standalone "sporting goods" but rather as components or accessories specifically designed for archery equipment.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point: - If the product is a complete set of arrows including shafts, points, and fletching β It may be classified under different archery headings (depending on material). - If the product is only the fletching (plastic vanes, feathers, or adhesive strips) intended for installation on arrows β It is classified as "Arrows and arrow parts". - Crucial Note: Do not confuse with "Bows and similar products" (Headings 9506 vs 9507). Fletching is a part of the projectile (arrow), not the launching device (bow).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
Based on your input data, there are two specific HS Codes related to archery components. It is critical to distinguish between the specific material/type of fletching part.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material/Type |
|---|---|---|---|
9506.99.05.20 |
Arrows and arrow parts | Fletching vanes, feathers, or adhesive components specifically for arrows | General Plastic/Feather parts |
9506.99.05.30 |
Other (Archery articles/equipment/parts) | Other archery parts not specified elsewhere (e.g., specific stabilizers, rest parts, or non-standard fletching materials) | Non-standard/Other parts |
π Focus for Your Data: The description for
9506.99.05.20explicitly states: "Arrows and arrow parts". The description for9506.99.05.30states: "Other".Standard Arrow Fletching (plastic vanes, quill, feathers) typically falls under
9506.99.05.20because it is a direct part of an arrow. General Archery Accessories (like bow rests, sight pins, release aids) would fall under9506.99.05.30.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Detail (With Surtax & Policy Details)
β Applicable Country: United States (US) β Origin: China (CN) (Implied by the surtax details in your data) β Effective Date: Current 2026 Rules
π― 1. 9506.99.05.20 ββ Arrows and Arrow Parts (Including Fletching)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surtax | 50% (Only if the fletching is made of metal, which is rare for fletching vanes) |
| Total Tax Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check Carefully: Generally, Section 301 tariffs apply to de minimis. However, verify current CBP enforcement on sports equipment under $800. Historically, surtaxes apply regardless of value for many categories. |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:9506.99.05.20 β FOOTNOTE:Section 301 Surtax |
π Explanation: - The Base Rate is 0%, which is highly favorable. - The 7.5% Surtax is the key cost driver. This is a standard Section 301 additional duty on many Chinese-origin goods. - Important: If your "fletching" is made of metal strips (very uncommon for standard arrows), the 50% steel/aluminum surtax would apply, making the total 50% + 0% base. For standard plastic/feather fletching, it remains 7.5%.
π― 2. 9506.99.05.30 ββ Other Archery Parts (If misclassified or non-standard)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surtax | 50% (If metal) |
| Total Tax Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
π Note: The tariff rate is identical to
9506.99.05.20. The distinction is primarily for customs reporting accuracy and statistical purposes.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Fletching for Arrows," Material (Plastic/Feather), Dimensions. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the fletching installed on an arrow shaft to prove it is an "arrow part." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Arrow Fletching Vanes" or "Feather Fletching Components". Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Parts." |
| β HS Code Justification | βοΈ | Reference HTS 9506.99.05.20 as "Arrows and arrow parts." |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm NON-metal composition (plastic, cork, paper, feather) to avoid the 50% metal surtax. |
β 2. Classification Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ βParts of Arrows, Go to 05.20, Not 05.30, Donβt Get It Wrong!β
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic/Feather Fletching | 9506.99.05.20 (Arrows/Arrow Parts) |
Misclassifying as "Other Plastic Articles" (3926) β Higher Tax! |
| Complete Arrows | Check Headings 9506 or 9507 (depending on completeness) | Classifying loose fletching as "Arrows" β Potential audit flag |
| Bow Accessories (Rests, Sights) | 9506.99.05.30 (Other) |
Classifying bow parts as "Arrow Parts" β Incorrect |
| Decorative Plastic Items (e.g., Statuettes) | 3926.40.00.10 |
Classifying fletching as "Ornamental Articles" β 6.5% Base + 7.5% Surtax = 14%! |
β οΈ Critical Warning: Do NOT classify plastic fletching as "Statuettes or Ornamental Articles" (
3926.40.00.10) or "Other Plastic Articles" (3926.90.35.00) just because they are made of plastic. - Why?3926has a Base Tax of 5.3% - 6.5% + 7.5% Surtax = 14% Total. -9506.99.05.20has a Base Tax of 0.0% + 7.5% Surtax = 7.5% Total. - Saving: You save ~6.5% - 9% by correctly classifying as Sportswear/Archery Parts!
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Base Tariff | Additional Surtax | Total Estimated Tax | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9506.99.05.20 |
0.0% | +7.5% | 7.5% | Section 301 Applies |
| π¨π³ China | 9506.99.05.20 |
0.0% | 0.0% | 0.0% | Free Trade Agreement may apply if importing from ASEAN |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9506.99.90 |
0.0% - 4.5% | 0.0% | 0% - 4.5% | No Section 301 equivalent; check E-commerce de minimis |
| π¬π§ UK | 9506.99.90 |
0.0% - 4.5% | 0.0% | 0% - 4.5% | Post-Brexit tariff schedule |
π Conclusion: - USA is the only major market with a specific Surtax on these goods (7.5%). - Correct Classification is Vital: Misclassifying as "Plastic Goods" (
3926) doubles the tax burden in the US.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying Arrow Fletching as "Plastic Ornamental Articles" (3926.40.00.10)
π Consequence: Tax increases from 7.5% to 5.3% + 7.5% = 12.8% (or 14% if under other 3926 headings). Overpayment!
β Error 2: Ignoring the Material Composition π Consequence: If fletching is metal (rare), tax jumps to 50%. Always declare "Plastic/Feather" to stay at 7.5%.
β Error 3: Vague Invoice Description ("Plastic Pieces") π Consequence: Customs may classify under 9903 (Miscellaneous) or 3926, leading to audits, delays, and penalties.
β Correct Approach:
"Plastic Fletching Vanes for Arrows, Model XYZ, Non-Metal, for Sport Archery, HS Code 9506.99.05.20"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money!
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Arrow Fletching =
9506.99.05.20(Arrows and Arrow Parts) πΉ Tax = 7.5% (0% Base + 7.5% Surtax) πΉ DO NOT classify as Plastic Articles (3926) or Ornamental Items (3926.40) to avoid higher base taxes.
π Tip: Ensure your commercial invoice and packing list explicitly state "Arrow Parts" and "Non-Metal Material". This minimizes the risk of misclassification and ensures smooth customs clearance under the favorable 0% base rate.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm material composition (Plastic/Feather) π Use HS Code
9506.99.05.20π Clear the air, fly true, and save on taxes!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification! πΌ Every percentage point counts in your profit margin!
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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.