Candle Snuffer
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9505102500 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9505105020 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8205517500 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8205513060 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π―οΈ Candle Snuffer (Candle Extinguisher)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Candle Snuffer"?
A candle snuffer is a handheld tool used to extinguish candles by cutting off the oxygen supply to the flame. In international trade, it is primarily classified as a household handtool. It is distinct from decorative items or electric appliances.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the item is a non-electric, handheld tool (metal, ceramic, or glass) used solely for extinguishing candles β Classified under Chapter 82 (Handtools) as "Other Handtools".
- If the item is purely decorative (e.g., a large ornamental bell with no functional handle for extinguishing) or an electronic device β It may fall under Chapter 95 (Toys/Novelties) or Chapter 85 (Electrical machinery), but the vast majority of functional snuffers are Handtools.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
Based on the provided DATA, the correct classification for a standard functional Candle Snuffer falls under HS Code 8205.51, specifically:
| HS Code | Product Description | Scenario | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
8205.51.30.60 |
Other handtools: Household tools: Of iron or steel: Other (including parts) | Standard metal candle snuffer (Iron/Steel construction) | Iron/Steel |
8205.51.75.00 |
Other handtools: Household tools: Other | Non-iron/steel snuffer (e.g., Wood, Ceramic, Glass, or Brass not listed elsewhere) | Other Base Metal/Material |
π Critical Note:
- Do NOT classify as Christmas Ornaments (9505.10). Even if sold during the holidays, a functional candle snuffer is a tool, not a decoration. Classifying it as an ornament (HS 9505.10.25.00 / 9505.10.50.20) is a high-risk classification error that leads to audits and penalties.
- The primary determinant is function: Does it extinguish a flame? If yes, it is a Handtool (8205).
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Tax Clauses)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025-11-10 onwards
π― 1. 8205.51.30.60 ββ Household Handtools of Iron or Steel
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Description | Other handtools (including glass cutters) and parts thereof: Household tools: Of iron or steel: Other (including parts) |
| Basic Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | Basic: 0.0%, Additional: 0.0% |
| Legal Basis | Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 8205.51.30.60 |
π Explanation:
- This code represents the most common classification for metal (iron/steel) candle snuffers.
- Zero Tariff: There are no base tariffs and no Section 301/IEEPA additional tariffs applied to this specific sub-heading for handtools of this type.
- Advantage: Significantly lower clearance cost compared to electronics or general consumer goods.
π― 2. 8205.51.75.00 ββ Other Household Handtools
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Description | Other handtools (including glass cutters) and parts thereof: Household tools: Other |
| Basic Duty Rate | 3.7% |
| Additional Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 3.7% |
| Tax Detail | Basic: 3.7%, Additional: 0.0% |
| Legal Basis | Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 8205.51.75.00 |
π Explanation:
- This code applies if the snuffer is made of non-iron/steel materials (e.g., brass, copper, aluminum, or composite materials) that do not fit the "Other (iron or steel)" definition.
- Low Tariff: Only a 3.7% basic duty is applied. No additional penalties.
β Misclassification Warning: Christmas Ornaments
| HS Code | Product Description | Total Tax | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
9505.10.25.00 |
Christmas Ornaments: Other | 0.0% | β οΈ High Audit Risk |
9505.10.50.20 |
Christmas Festivities Articles: Other | 0.0% | β οΈ High Audit Risk |
π Why Avoid These Codes?
- Although the tax rate is 0.0%, Candle Snuffers are NOT Christmas ornaments. They are functional tools.
- Customs officers often perform "functional tests" or request technical documents. If you declare a metal tool as a "decoration," it will be flagged for False Declaration, leading to:
1. Detention & Inspection (Delays)
2. Penalties & Fines (Civil Monetary Penalties)
3. Seizure of Goods in extreme cases.
- Correct Approach: Use 8205.51 regardless of when it is sold.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: "Candle Snuffer," "Function: Extinguish Flame," "Material: Iron/Steel" |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing the handle, cup/head, and lack of electrical components |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description should read: "Metal Candle Snuffer, Household Tool, Iron/Steel, No Electronics" |
| β HS Code Pre-Ruling | βοΈ | Highly recommended to obtain a binding ruling for HS 8205.51.30.60 to prove it is a handtool |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List quantity and weight per unit |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Functional Tool, Not Decor; Iron or Steel, Code 8205!"
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Metal Snuffer | 8205.51.30.60 |
9505.10.25.00 |
Audit for misclassification |
| Brass/Ceramic Snuffer | 8205.51.75.00 |
9505.10.50.20 |
Audit for misclassification |
| Electric Snuffer (Rare) | 8543.70 (Electrical) |
8205.51.30.60 |
Wrong duty rate & regulatory check (FCC) |
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Design | Provide design drawings to prove it is a functional tool, not a "novelty item" |
| Sold as Gift Set | If boxed with candles, declare the snuffer separately as 8205.51.30.60 and candles as 3406.00 |
| Holiday Season Sales | Do not change HS code to 9505 just because it is December. Function > Season |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8205.51.30.60 |
0.0% | Best outcome for iron/steel snuffers |
| π¨π³ China | 8205.51.30.60 |
~7-10% | Import duty varies, but generally low |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8205.51 |
0-5% | Depends on exact material |
| π¬π§ UK | 8205.51 |
0-5% | Post-Brexit tariffs apply |
π Conclusion:
- The USA offers the most favorable tariff (0.0%) for iron/steel candle snuffers under HS 8205.51.30.60.
- Avoid Classifying as 9505 (Christmas Ornaments) to prevent customs penalties.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring a metal candle snuffer as a "Christmas Decoration"
π Result: Customs flags it for functional assessment β Delay + Potential Fine for False Declaration.
β Error 2: Using a generic "Gift Item" description without specifying material
π Result: Customs assigns the highest default duty rate or requires manual intervention.
β Error 3: Confusing with "Candle Holder" (9505.10 or 7323)
π Result: Wrong HS Code. Holders are static; Snuffers are active tools.
β Correct Practice:
"Candle Snuffer, Household Handtool, Iron/Steel Construction, Function: Flame Extinguisher, Model XYZ"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Savings, Risk Reduction
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Functional Tool, Code 8205; Decorative Ornament, Code 9505. Don't Mix Them!"
πΉ "Iron Snuffer is 0% Tax; Misclassification Costs More Than Duty!"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing brass or copper snuffers, use 8205.51.75.00 (3.7% duty). It is still very low, but ensure your invoice clearly states the material to justify the code.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Ensure your Commercial Invoice explicitly states "Household Handtool"
π Let your candle snuffers clear smoothly, avoid penalties, and maximize profit!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent saved is a cent earned!
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.