Cardboard Support (Anti static)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4823908000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4819502000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4819600000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8548000000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823903100 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π¦ Cardboard Support (Anti-static)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Classification Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Is it a Container or an Article?
Cardboard supports (anti-static) are specialized packaging components designed to protect sensitive electronic goods or fragile items during transit. The key characteristic here is "Anti-static" (ESD protection) and "Support" (structural integrity, not just containment).
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on whether the item is considered a "packing container" (Chapter 48, Heading 4819) or a "specialized article" (Chapter 48, Heading 4823).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the item functions primarily as a box, case, bag, or sleeve that encloses the product β Classify under 4819 (Packing Containers).
- If the item is a cut-to-shape insert, tray, separator, or structural support that does not fully enclose the product but is made of paper/paperboard β Classify under 4823 (Other Articles of Paper).
For "Cardboard Supports," these are typically internal packaging components (inserts/trays). However, if they are rigid structures acting as outer boxes, they fall under 4819. Given the ambiguity in general "support" terminology, we look at the specific HS codes provided in .
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided , here is the breakdown of potential classifications for cardboard-related items, specifically focusing on packing containers and specialized paper articles.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicability to "Cardboard Support" | Anti-static Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
4819.60.00.00 |
Box files, letter trays, storage boxes of a kind used in offices, shops, etc. | Low Probability: Only applies if the support is a rigid storage box/file used in an office setting, not general shipping support. | β No specific mention of ESD |
4819.50.20.00 |
Sanitary food and beverage containers | Incorrect: Cardboard supports are not for food/beverage. | β N/A |
4823.90.31.00 |
Cards, not punched, for punchcard machines | Incorrect: This is for data storage (legacy tech), not packaging. | β N/A |
4823.90.80.00 |
Gaskets, washers and other seals | Incorrect: Unless the support is strictly a seal/gasket, which is rare for "cardboard supports." | β N/A |
4823.90.00.00 |
Other articles of paper or paperboard | High Probability: This is the "catch-all" for paper articles not specified elsewhere. Anti-static cardboard inserts/trays often fall here if they are not "containers." | β οΈ Note: Tax retrieval failed in data, but functionally fits "other articles." |
π Critical Analysis for "Anti-static" Cardboard Supports:
- Most anti-static cardboard inserts (trays, dividers, pads) are classified under 4823.90.00.00 ("Other articles of paper or paperboard") because they are cut to size/shape for specific industrial use, not general "packing containers" like boxes or bags.
- However, if the "support" is a rigid corrugated box (e.g., a heavy-duty outer case), it may fall under 4819.60.00.00 if viewed as a "box" or "storage container."
- Recommendation: For most electronic packaging uses, 4823.90.00.00 is the more precise fit for "supports/inserts," while 4819.60.00.00 is reserved for more structural "box-like" containers.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Post-2025 (Current Data Range)
π― 1. 4819.60.00.00 β Box Files, Letter Trays, Storage Boxes (Office/Shop Use)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff | 25.0% |
| Tax Detail | "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 25.0%" |
| Legal Basis | USITC Footnote 9903.88.01 (Section 301 Tariffs) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High value/complexity items usually excluded) |
π Explanation:
- Even though the base tariff is 0%, the 25% Section 301 surcharge applies to most paper/paperboard products from China.
- This code is typically for office/storage boxes. If your anti-static support is a simple insert, this code may be over-classified (misleading customs that it's a retail box).
π― 2. 4823.90.00.00 β Other Articles of Paper or Paperboard (Catch-All)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | Not specified in data |
| Additional Tariff | Failed to retrieve tax information |
| Total Tariff | Error / Unclear |
| Tax Detail | "Failed to retrieve tax information" |
| Legal Basis | Pending verification |
π Warning:
- The provided data indicates a tax retrieval error for this code.
- However, in standard US Tariff Schedules,4823.90.00.00typically carries a base rate of 2.5% - 5.5% and is also subject to the 25% Section 301 surcharge for Chinese goods.
- Estimated Real-World Rate: ~27.5% - 30.5%.
- Action Required: Do NOT rely solely on this data error. Verify with a customs broker for the exact current rate, as "Other articles of paper" are heavily scrutinized.
π― 3. 4819.50.20.00 β Sanitary Food & Beverage Containers
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Total Tariff | 25.0% |
| Tax Detail | "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 25.0%" |
π Note: DO NOT USE this code for anti-static cardboard supports. It is strictly for food/beverage containers (e.g., paper cups, plates). Misclassification leads to penalties.
π― 4. 4823.90.31.00 & 4823.90.80.00
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Total Tariff | 25.0% |
| Tax Detail | "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 25.0%" |
π Note: These are for punchcards and gaskets/seals. DO NOT USE for cardboard supports unless the product is literally a paper gasket (which is unlikely for ESD packaging).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Must-Have Documents)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the anti-static surface (often pink/blue hue) and the shape (tray/insert). |
| β Material Composition | βοΈ | Specify "Paperboard + Anti-static Coating/Additive." Proves it's not just plain cardboard. |
| β Function Statement | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Anti-static cardboard support/insert for electronics packaging." |
| β HS Code Justification | βοΈ | Explain why it's 4823 (cut-to-shape article) vs. 4819 (container). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Value must be accurate; anti-static products may have higher value due to special coating. |
β 2. Classification Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Structure Determines Code, Function Defines Value"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Rigid Box-like Support (Encloses product) | 4819.60.00.00 |
Treated as a "box" or "storage container." |
| Insert/Tray/Divider (Fits inside a box) | 4823.90.00.00 |
Treated as an "article cut to shape." |
| Gasket/Seal (Round/Flat sealing) | 4823.90.80.00 |
Rare for supports, but possible if it's a sealing pad. |
| Punchcard Data Storage | 4823.90.31.00 |
Incorrect for packaging. |
β οΈ Critical Warning:
- Do not classify anti-static cardboard as4819.50.20.00(Food Containers). This is a common error that causes immediate red flags.
- If the support is flexible (e.g., a sleeve), it might be4819.10or4819.20, but these are not in the provided scope. Stick to4819.60(rigid) or4823(special article).
β 3. Special Handling for Anti-static Products
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| ESD Certification | Provide ESD Association (ANSI/ESD S20.20) certification if requested by customs or buyer. |
| Value Declaration | Anti-static coating adds cost. Ensure the declared value reflects the true manufacturing cost to avoid under-valuation penalties. |
| Description Accuracy | Use terms like "Anti-static Paperboard Insert" or "ESD Protective Cardboard Tray" rather than just "Cardboard." |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Tariff | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4823.90.00.00 or 4819.60.00.00 |
25% + Base | Section 301 tariffs apply. Verify 4823 base rate separately. |
| π¨π³ China | 4823.90.00.00 |
5-10% | No additional surcharges for exports from China. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4823.90 |
6.5% | No Section 301 equivalent, but anti-duty may apply if dumped. |
| π¬π§ UK | 4823.90 |
6.5% | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the highest cost market due to 25% Section 301 Tariffs.
- EU/UK have lower but non-zero tariffs.
- China (exporting) has no additional tariffs for these codes.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying anti-static cardboard as Food Packaging (4819.50.20.00)
π Consequence: Customs rejection, fine, or forced reclassification. Avoid this at all costs.
β Error 2: Ignoring the Anti-static nature in documentation
π Consequence: Buyers may reject goods if ESD certification is not provided, leading to returns.
β Error 3: Misclassifying Inserts as Boxes (4819.60 vs 4823)
π Consequence: Minor tariff difference, but potential customs delay if description doesn't match "box" definition.
β Correct Practice:
"Anti-static Cardboard Insert, Custom Cut, ESD Sensitive, for Electronics Packaging, Model XYZ"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification, Risk Minimization
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Inserts are Articles (4823), Boxes are Containers (4819)."
πΉ "Anti-static doesn't change HS Code, but changes Value & Certs."
πΉ "Food Codes are for Food, Never for Electronics!"
π Pro Tip:
If your anti-static cardboard support is part of a larger packaging system (e.g., includes foam, plastic lids), consider whether the whole kit should be classified differently (e.g., under the electronic device's HS code if it's a "kit" for that device). However, standalone cardboard supports are best classified under 4823.90.00.00.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker for Pre-classification Ruling if the shipment value is high.
π Ensure ESD Certification is attached to the commercial invoice to prevent buyer disputes.
β¨ Precise Classification Starts with Clear Definitions!
πΌ Your packaging is the first impression; make sure it clears customs too!
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.