Barrier Tape
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909905 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919102055 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905060 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5604909000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5604100000 | 41.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ Barrier Tape & Safety Plastics: The Ultimate Guide to HS Classification & US Customs Clearance (2026)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Compliance for Plastics & Rubber
π 1. Product Definition: What Exactly Is "Barrier Tape"?
In international trade, "Barrier Tape" is not a single, monolithic product. It is a broad term covering various flat shapes of plastics or rubber, often adhesive, used for safety, construction, or industrial marking. To get the correct HS Code and avoid costly misclassification penalties, you must distinguish between:
- Adhesive Plastic Strips/Tapes: Self-adhesive rolls of plastic film, foil, or sheeting, typically used for marking, barricading, or insulation. Width is a critical differentiator.
- Textile-Covered Rubber Cord/Yarn: If the tape involves textile yarn covered in rubber, it falls under Chapter 56.
- Finished Plastic Articles: If the "tape" is shaped into specific functional items (like elastic bands or non-adhesive strips) that don't fit the "roll" criteria, it may be classified as "Other articles of plastics."
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If it is adhesive plastic in a roll β€ 20cm width β Chapter 39, Heading 3919
- If it is non-adhesive or shaped into a specific article (like an elastic band) β Chapter 39, Heading 3926
- If it involves textile covered with rubber β Chapter 56, Heading 5604
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Official Tariff Data)
Based on the provided dataset, here are the precise classifications for "Barrier Tape" variations. Note that no other HS codes from the dataset are applicable to this product category.
| HS Code | Product Description (Exact Text) | Key Characteristics & Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 3919.10.20.55 | Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls: In rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm: Other Other: Other | β Primary Candidate for standard adhesive safety tape (e.g., "Caution", "Danger" tape). Must be β€ 20cm wide. |
| 3919.90.50.60 | Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls: Other: Other Other | β Used for adhesive tapes wider than 20cm or non-standard rolls not covered by the previous code. |
| 5604.90.90.00 | Rubber thread and cord, textile covered; textile yarn, and strip and the like of heading 5404 or 5405, impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics: Other: Other | β οΈ Niche Case: Only if the barrier material is a textile strip coated/covered with rubber/plastics (not simple plastic adhesive tape). |
| 5604.10.00.00 | Rubber thread and cord, textile covered; textile yarn, and strip and the like of heading 5404 or 5405, impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics: Rubber thread and cord, textile covered (201) | β οΈ Niche Case: Specifically for textile-covered rubber cord. Rare for standard plastic barrier tape. |
| 3926.90.99.89 | Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Other | β οΈ Catch-All: For plastic barrier-related items that are not self-adhesive or are shaped articles (e.g., rigid plastic barriers) not covered in Ch 3919. Tax: 12.8% |
| 3926.90.99.05 | Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Elastic bands made wholly of plastics | β οΈ Specific Case: If the "barrier" is actually a plastic elastic band (e.g., for bundling), not adhesive tape. |
π Key Insight:
- Most standard adhesive barrier tapes (like "Wet Paint" or "Construction Zone" tape) fall under 3919.10.20.55 (if β€ 20cm) or 3919.90.50.60 (if wider).
- 3926.90.99.89 has a 12.8% total tax β avoid this if your product is clearly adhesive plastic tape.
- 3926.90.99.05 is 0% tax but only for elastic bands.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025-11-10 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3919.10.20.55 β Self-Adhesive Plastic Tape (β€ 20cm)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301 / IEEPA) | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0% |
| Eligibility for De Minimis? | β Likely eligible (if value <$800) |
π Explanation:
- This is the most favorable classification for standard adhesive barrier tape.
- No additional duties apply.
- Crucial: Must be in rolls β€ 20 cm wide. If wider, see below.
π― 2. 3919.90.50.60 β Self-Adhesive Plastic Tape (> 20cm or Other)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0% |
| Eligibility for De Minimis? | β Likely eligible (if value <$800) |
π Explanation:
- Also 0% tax.
- Used for wider rolls or formats not specified in 3919.10.20.55.
π― 3. 3926.90.99.89 β Other Plastic Articles (Non-Adhesive/Rigid)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Additional Tariff | 7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 12.8% |
| Tax Detail | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 5.3%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 7.5% |
| Eligibility for De Minimis? | β Check Local Rules (Generally, de minimis applies to value, but tax liability exists) |
π Explanation:
- Higher cost! Only use if the product is not self-adhesive plastic tape.
- Example: Rigid plastic barrier strips, non-adhesive plastic signs.
π― 4. 3926.90.99.05 β Plastic Elastic Bands
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0% |
| Eligibility for De Minimis? | β Likely eligible |
π Explanation:
- Only for elastic bands made wholly of plastics. Not for tape.
π― 5. 5604.10.00.00 & 5604.90.90.00 β Textile-Covered Rubber
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0% |
| Eligibility for De Minimis? | β Likely eligible |
π Explanation:
- Only if your "barrier tape" is actually textile yarn/strip covered in rubber/plastics. Uncommon for standard safety tape.
π οΈ 4. Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Tips)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: Material (Plastic/Rubber), Adhesive Type, Roll Width, Length. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Self-Adhesive Plastic Barrier Tape" or "Plastic Strips". Avoid vague terms like "Tape". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List roll dimensions (Width β€ 20cm? Critical for 3919.10.20.55). |
| β Photos | βοΈ | Show the roll, the adhesive side, and any markings (e.g., "Caution"). |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | If claiming preferential rates (though all listed here are 0-12.8% for US/China). |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Width is King, Adhesion is Queen!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Standard "Caution Tape" (Roll, β€ 20cm, Adhesive) | 3919.10.20.55 | Fits "In rolls of width not exceeding 20cm". |
| Wide Barricade Tape (> 20cm, Adhesive) | 3919.90.50.60 | Fails width test for .55, so falls to "Other". |
| Rigid Plastic Barrier (Non-Adhesive, Shaped) | 3926.90.99.89 | Not a "roll" of tape, so "Other articles of plastics". |
| Plastic Elastic Band (For bundling) | 3926.90.99.05 | Specifically "Elastic bands made wholly of plastics". |
| Textile Strip Coated in Rubber | 5604.10.00.00 or 5604.90.90.00 | Not plastic; it's rubber-covered textile. |
β 3. Special Cases & Pitfalls
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Multi-Layer" Tape | If it has a fabric backing + adhesive + plastic film, it may still be classified under 3919 if plastic is dominant. Declare as "Plastic Adhesive Tape". |
| Printed vs. Unprinted | Printing does not change the HS Code for 3919. |
| Non-Adhesive Plastic Strip | Do NOT use 3919. Use 3926.90.99.89 (12.8% tax). |
| Small Samples (< $800) | Can use De Minimis entry (Section 321), but ensure HS Code is still correct for record-keeping. |
| High-Value Bulk Import | De Minimis does NOT apply. Pay full duty at 0% or 12.8% depending on classification. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country | Recommended HS Code | Total Tax | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3919.10.20.55 |
0% | Best option for β€ 20cm adhesive tape. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.99.89 |
12.8% | For non-adhesive/rigid plastic items. |
| π¨π³ China | 3919.10.20.55 |
~5-6% | Export duty may apply; check latest Chinese tariffs. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3919.10.20 |
~6.5% | EU uses 8-digit HS. Similar classification. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3919.10.20 |
~6% | Similar classification. |
π Conclusion:
- The US offers 0% duty for standard adhesive plastic barrier tape (β€ 20cm) under 3919.10.20.55.
- Avoid 3926.90.99.89 if your product is adhesive tape, as it incurs 12.8% tax.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying adhesive tape as "Plastic Article" (3926)
π Consequence: 12.8% tax instead of 0%.
β Error 2: Using 3919.10.20.55 for tape > 20cm wide
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 3919.90.50.60 (still 0%, but wrong description) or flag for misdeclaration.
β Error 3: Calling it "Rubber Tape" when it's Plastic
π Consequence: Incorrect HS Code (5604 vs 3919). If it's plastic, use 3919. If it's rubber-covered textile, use 5604.
β Error 4: Ignoring the Adhesive aspect
π Consequence: If it's non-adhesive, it cannot be 3919. Use 3926.90.99.89.
β Correct Description Example:
"Self-Adhesive Plastic Barrier Tape, Yellow, 4" (10cm) Width, Roll of 100ft, Printed with 'CAUTION' Text."
β HS Code:3919.10.20.55
β Tax: 0%
π― 7. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Maximize Savings!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Adhesive + β€ 20cm = 3919.10.20.55 (0% Tax)"
πΉ "Adhesive + > 20cm = 3919.90.50.60 (0% Tax)"
πΉ "Non-Adhesive/Rigid = 3926.90.99.89 (12.8% Tax)"
πΉ "Elastic Band = 3926.90.99.05 (0% Tax)"
π Pro Tip:
Always verify the roll width on your invoice. If it's 4 inches (10cm) or less, you're in the sweet spot for 3919.10.20.55.
For high-volume imports, consider applying for an Advance Ruling from US Customs (CBP) to lock in the HS Code and avoid surprises.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Consult a licensed customs broker.
π¦ Ensure your product description includes "Self-Adhesive" and "Width in cm/inches".
π Clear your Barrier Tape smoothly, save 12.8%, and boost your margins!
β¨ Precision in Classification, Profit in Clearance!
πΌ Every HS Code decision impacts your bottom line!
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.