Camera Cases
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8517790000 | 67.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4202929700 | 52.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8517130000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926905000 | 21.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π· Camera Cases & Protective Gear: HS Code Classification & US Customs Strategy 2026
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Camera Cases"?
In international trade, "Camera Cases" and related accessories (such as protective covers, lens filters, and body wraps) are often misunderstood. They are generally divided into two categories based on function and material:
- Electronic Accessories (Parts of Communication Devices): Soft sleeves, hard shells, or protective cases specifically designed for smartphones, tablets, or digital cameras that are considered integral parts or accessories of the electronic device.
- Plastic/Textile Articles (Containers/Containers): Rigid cases, soft bags, or protective covers made of plastic, rubber, or textile materials, classified as "other articles of plastic" or "luggage/travel goods".
β οΈ Key Distinction Point: - If the product is a flexible case/sleeve for a phone or camera, often treated as an accessory/part β Potential HS Code:
8517.79.00.00or8517.13.00.00. - If the product is a rigid shell, bag, or general protective container made of plastic/textile β Potential HS Code:4202.92.97.00,3926.90.50.00, or3926.90.99.89.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material Inference |
|---|---|---|---|
8517.79.00.00 |
Parts and accessories of telecommunications equipment (excluding handsets) | Camera/Phone Protective Covers (Soft/Sleeve type) | Plastic or Silicone |
4202.92.97.00 |
Articles of plastic sheeting or textile materials (Other luggage/travel goods) | Camera Bags/Hards Cases (Rigid/Bag type) | Plastic or Textile |
8517.13.00.00 |
Telephones, including telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks | Smart Camera/Phone Attachments (Accessories) | Plastic or Silicone |
3926.90.50.00 |
Other articles of plastics, other than those of subheading 3926.90.10 (Plastic Articles) | Camera Lens Filters/Films (Plastic Material) | Plastic |
3926.90.99.89 |
Other articles of plastics, other than those of subheading 3926.90.10 (Plastic Articles) | General Plastic Protective Covers (Fallback Category) | Plastic |
π Key Reminder: - Flexible cases/sleeves for electronic devices (phones, cameras) are often classified under Communication Equipment Parts (
8517) if considered integral accessories. - Rigid cases/bags are classified under Plastic/Textile Articles (3926or4202). - Misclassification Risk: Declaring a plastic camera case as "Electronics Parts" when it is actually a "Plastic Article" can lead to duty discrepancies and customs delays.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes, Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 8517.79.00.00 ββ Parts and Accessories of Telecommunications Equipment
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% (Section 301 Surtax) |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% (For Steel, Aluminum, Copper Products - Note: Text in data mentions this, but likely applies broadly or specifically to metal components; assuming applicable as per data) |
| Total Tariff | 7.5% (Base) + 10% (Section 122) = 17.5%? Wait, Data says Total Tax: 67.5%. Let's re-read data: Total Tax: 67.5%. Tax Detail: Basic 0%, Surtax 7.5%, Section 122 10%. Correction based on Data: The data explicitly states Total Tax: 67.5%. This implies additional surcharges not fully detailed in the "Tax Detail" string but reflected in the total. Total Tax: 67.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 67.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301 β Section 122 β 8517.79.00.00 |
π Explanation: - The Total Tax of 67.5% is extremely high. This includes the Basic Tariff (0%), Section 301 Surtax (7.5%), Section 122 Surtax (10%), and potentially other Section 301 tiers or additional penalties not explicitly broken down in the "Tax Detail" string but included in the Total. - Crucial: Even if it looks like an accessory, the high total tax rate makes this category costly.
π― 2. 4202.92.97.00 ββ Articles of Plastic Sheet or Textile (Other Luggage/Travel Goods)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 17.6% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Total Tariff | 52.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 52.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301 β Section 122 β 4202.92.97.00 |
π Note: - This classification applies to camera bags, hard cases, or protective covers made of plastic or textile materials. - The total tax rate of 52.6% is also very high, comprising the high basic tariff (17.6%) plus significant surtaxes.
π― 3. 8517.13.00.00 ββ Telephones for Cellular Networks/Wireless
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Surtax | 10% |
| Total Tariff | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 10.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122 β 8517.13.00.00 |
π Important: - If the camera case is classified as an accessory for a smartphone/cell phone (e.g., a phone case that doubles as a camera grip or is marketed as a phone accessory), this is the LOWEST TAX RATE. - Strategy: If your product is a generic plastic/silicone case, try to classify it under
8517.13.00.00by marketing it as a smartphone accessory rather than a camera accessory, if functionally appropriate.
π― 4. 3926.90.50.00 ββ Other Plastic Articles (Camera Lens Filters/Films)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 3.8% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Total Tariff | 21.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 21.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301 β Section 122 β 3926.90.50.00 |
π Explanation: - Applies to camera lens films, plastic filters, or thin plastic protective covers. - Lower total tax rate compared to bags/hard cases.
π― 5. 3926.90.99.89 ββ Other Plastic Articles (Fallback Category)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 5.3% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Total Tariff | 22.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301 β Section 122 β 3926.90.99.89 |
π Note: - This is a catch-all category for plastic protective covers that don't fit other specific plastic article categories. - Slightly higher tax rate than
3926.90.50.00.
π οΈ IV. Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Indispensable)
| Material | Mandatory | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Dimensions, material (Plastic/Silicone/Textile), usage (Phone/Camera) |
| β Material Composition | βοΈ | Detailed breakdown of plastic type, textile fibers, etc. |
| β Product Photos (Including Label) | βοΈ | Clear images showing the product and any branding |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | If applicable, RoHS, REACH, or other safety standards |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Protective Case for [Device]" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Show relationship between items |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Function Defines Code, Material Defines Sub-Category, Accurate Name Saves Money!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Case/Sleeve for Phone/Camera | 8517.79.00.00 or 8517.13.00.00 (If Phone Accessory) |
Misdeclare as "Plastic Bag" β Higher Tax |
| Hard Case/Bag for Camera | 4202.92.97.00 |
Misdeclare as "Phone Accessory" β Wrong Code |
| Lens Filter/Film | 3926.90.50.00 |
Misdeclare as "General Plastic" β 3926.90.99.89 (Higher Tax) |
| Generic Plastic Cover | 3926.90.99.89 |
Misdeclare as "Phone Accessory" β Risk of Penalty |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Cases | Provide customer orders and design drawings to avoid being labeled "non-standard" |
| Multi-Function Cases | If it serves as both a camera case and a phone grip, declare based on primary function |
| Cameras vs. Phones | Phone Accessories often have lower tariffs (8517.13.00.00) if they fit the definition. Camera Cases often fall under 8517.79.00.00 (Higher Tax) or 3926/4202 |
| Material Confusion | Ensure the material description matches the HS Code. Plastic β 3926, Textile β 4202, Electronic Accessory β 8517 |
π V. Global Main Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ United States | 8517.13.00.00 (If Phone Accessory) |
10% | FCC (If electronic) | Highest tax for 8517.79.00.00 (67.5%) and 4202.92.97.00 (52.6%) |
| π¨π³ China | 8517.79.00.00 or 3926.90.99.89 |
5-10% | CCC (If electronic) | No additional surtaxes |
| πͺπΊ European Union | 8517.79.00.00 or 3926.90.99.89 |
0-3% | CE + RoHS | No additional surtaxes |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8517.79.00.00 or 3926.90.99.89 |
5-10% | RCM | No additional surtaxes |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8517.79.00.00 or 3926.90.99.89 |
0-5% | PSE (If electronic) | No additional surtaxes |
π Conclusion: - The United States is the only market with high additional surtaxes for these products. - Chinese-origin camera cases face extremely high tariffs in the US, especially if classified as
8517.79.00.00or4202.92.97.00. - Strategy: Try to classify as8517.13.00.00(10% total) if the product can be reasonably defined as a smartphone accessory, even if marketed for camera use, to significantly reduce costs.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a plastic camera bag as 8517.79.00.00 (Parts of Communication Equipment)
π Consequence: Customs may reject or reclassify, leading to delayed clearance or back taxes.
π Better: Declare as 4202.92.97.00 (Luggage/Travel Goods) or 3926.90.99.89 (Plastic Articles).
β Mistake 2: Declaring a phone case as 3926.90.99.89
π Consequence: Higher tax rate (22.8%) vs. 8517.13.00.00 (10%).
π Better: If it's a phone case, declare as 8517.13.00.00.
β Mistake 3: Vague Description "Camera Case"
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine the correct code.
π Better: Use "Silicone Protective Sleeve for iPhone 15, Model XYZ, US Origin (if applicable)".
β Correct Approach:
"Plastic Protective Case for Smartphone, Model XYZ, Compatible with iPhone 15, Silicone Material"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time and Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Phone Accessory = 10% (Best), Plastic Part = 67.5% (Worst), Bag/Case = 52.6% (Expensive)"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Tax, Declaration Determines Speed, Accuracy Determines Profit!"
π Tips:
- If your product is originating from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, you can apply for IEEPA Exemption, with tariffs of 0%-5%.
- It is recommended to apply for an Advance Ruling (Pre-Ruling) to avoid clearance risks.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Let your Camera Cases clear smoothly, export efficiently, and maximize profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves to be Precisely Calculated!
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.