Bookmark
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7117909000 | 28.5% | 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 Bookmarks (Stationery / Printed Goods)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Bookmarks"?
A bookmark is a small item inserted into a book to mark a place. In international trade, its classification depends entirely on material composition and manufacturing process. The key distinction lies in whether it is treated as a precious metal imitation jewelry item or a printed paper product.
Metal/Plastic/Paper Bookmarks: Often misclassified as jewelry or general merchandise. Printed/Text Bookmarks: Classified strictly under printed goods chapters.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the bookmark lacks precious metal characteristics (e.g., made of base metal, plastic, or paper) and does not resemble jewelry β Not7117.90.90.00.
- If it is primarily a paper/cardboard item with printing/design β Yes, classified under Chapter 49 (Printed Books/Newspapers/Other Printed Matter).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material/Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
7117.90.90.00 |
Imitation Jewelry (Other) | Metal, plastic, or paper bookmarks that might be misconstrued as jewelry due to shape, BUT lack precious metal traits | β Not Applicable (Summary: Lacks precious metal features; falls under other categories of imitation jewelry) |
4911.91.40.40 |
Printed/Design Category Items | Bookmarks made of paper/cardboard, considered as small printed/design items | β Applicable (Summary: Belongs to printed/design category; fits this subheading) |
4911.99.80.00 |
Other Printed Matter (Catch-all) | Paper-based bookmarks that do not fit specific printed subheadings | β Applicable (Summary: Belongs to printed/paper category; fits the catch-all classification for other printed items) |
π Key Reminder:
- Most common bookmarks (paper, cardstock, fabric with printing) should NOT be declared under7117.90.90.00unless they are specifically designed as jewelry pieces.
- The correct classification for standard bookmarks is typically within Chapter 49 (Printed Goods), specifically4911.91.40.40or4911.99.80.00.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges, Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 7117.90.90.00 ββ Imitation Jewelry (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 11.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 301 Additional (122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 28.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (High tariff rate usually excludes de minimis benefits in practical clearance for high-risk categories) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base Tariff β Section 301 β Section 122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- This rate applies only if the bookmark is explicitly declared as "Imitation Jewelry" (e.g., metal chain with gemstone, designed as wearable accessory).
- Warning: Misclassifying a simple paper bookmark here leads to unnecessary high tax (28.5%) and potential compliance issues.
- Summary from Data: "Bookmarks lacking precious metal characteristics, made of metal, plastic, or paper, fit into other categories of imitation jewelry" β Note: This is a fallback interpretation, but Chapter 49 is more accurate for standard items.
π― 2. 4911.91.40.40 ββ Printed/Design Items (Small Printed Goods)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 301 Additional (122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (Section 301 goods are generally excluded from de minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base Tariff β Section 301 β Section 122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- This is the recommended classification for standard paper/cardstock bookmarks.
- Summary from Data: "Bookmarks belong to printed/design category, fit as small printed/paper items under this classification."
- Cost Advantage: Saves 11% compared to jewelry classification.
π― 3. 4911.99.80.00 ββ Other Printed Matter (Catch-all)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| > Section 301 Additional (122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base Tariff β Section 301 β Section 122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- Use this if the bookmark is paper-based but doesn't fit the specific "printed/design" subheading for some reason.
- Summary from Data: "Bookmarks belong to printed/paper category, fit the catch-all logic for other printed matter."
- Same Rate as 4911.91.40.40, but less specific. Use only if 4911.91.40.40 is not applicable.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (All Required)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Material (Paper, Metal, Plastic), Dimensions, Printing Type |
| β Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of front/back, showing any text/designs |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Paper Bookmark, Printed" NOT "Jelry" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Quantity, Weight, HS Code |
| β Origin Certificate | βοΈ | If claiming preferential rates (e.g., for non-China origin) |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Material Determines Code, Paper is Chapter 49, Not Jewelry!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Paper/Cardboard Bookmark | 4911.91.40.40 or 4911.99.80.00 |
Misdeclare as Jewelry (7117.90.90.00) β 28.5% Tax |
| Metal Bookmark (Non-Jewelry) | 4911.91.40.40 (if printed) or check metal category |
Declare as Jewelry β 28.5% Tax |
| Plastic Bookmark with Print | 4911.91.40.40 |
Ignore print nature β Risk of reclassification |
| Luxury Metal Bookmark (Jewelry-like) | 7117.90.90.00 |
Try to force 4911 β Customs Rejection/ Penalty |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Bookmark with Fabric Strap | Still primarily printed/paper item β 4911 |
| Metal Bookmark (Plain) | If no jewelry features, check other metal goods codes, but often still falls under general goods. If declared as jewelry, expect 28.5%. |
| Bookmarks in Gift Sets | Declare based on the principal character (usually the bookmark) |
| Custom Design Bookmarks | Ensure "Printed/Design" description is prominent on invoice |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4911.91.40.40 |
17.5% | None | 28.5% if misclassified as Jewelry |
| π¨π³ China | 4911.91.40.40 |
0% | None | No surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4911.91.40.40 |
0% | None | Standard rate for printed matter |
| π¬π§ UK | 4911.91.40.40 |
0% | None | Standard rate |
| π―π΅ Japan | 4911.91.40.40 |
0% | None | Low tariff for printed goods |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the only major market with high tariffs due to Section 301 and 122 clauses.
- Correct classification under Chapter 49 saves 11% in duties compared to misclassification under Jewelry.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Avoidance (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring paper bookmarks as "Imitation Jewelry" (7117.90.90.00)
π Consequence: Pay 28.5% tax instead of 17.5%. Overpayment of 11%!
β Error 2: Using vague descriptions like "Stationery Item"
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to higher tariff or demand additional documentation.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 301 and 122 Clauses
π Consequence: Unexpected high taxes at US border, even for low-value items if not eligible for de minimis.
β Correct Practice:
"Paper Bookmark, Printed Design, 80gsm Cardstock, 15x5cm, Model XYZ, For Bookmarks Only"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Costs!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Paper is 49, Jewelry is 7117, Tax Difference is 11%, Don't Pay More!"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Cost, Declare Accurately, Save Money Instantly!"
π Tips:
- If your bookmarks are not from China, check for FTA benefits (e.g., RCEP, CPTPP) to reduce or eliminate tariffs.
- For US imports, ensure your supplier provides a Certificate of Origin to verify non-China origin if applicable.
- Always use precise product descriptions to avoid customs reclassification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide product photos + Request HS Code Pre-ruling for high-value shipments
π Ensure your bookmarks, clear customs smoothly, efficiently, and profitably!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent of your cost deserves precise calculation!
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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.