Cat Proof Mat
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4823908620 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823908000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926906550 | 14.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6307909891 | 24.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
πΎ Cat Proof Mat (Multi-Functional Pet Protection Mat)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Cat Proof Mat"?
A "Cat Proof Mat" is a broad commercial term often used for protective floor coverings designed to resist scratches, urine, and wear caused by pets, particularly cats. In international trade, these items are not classified under a single HS code. Instead, they are split based on material composition and specific function.
Misclassification is a high-risk area becauseζ΅·ε ³ (Customs) strictly differentiates between: 1. Plastic/Rubber Products: If the mat is primarily made of PVC, rubber, or synthetic polymers for durability/waterproofing. 2. Paper/Board Products: If the mat is made of compressed paper, cardboard, or fiberboard (common for cheap scratchers or litter mats). 3. Textile/Garment Products: If the mat is made of woven fabric, felt, or non-woven materials.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the material is plastic/rubber/polymer β Look at Chapter 39 or Chapter 40.
- If the material is paper/cardboard β Look at Chapter 48.
- If the material is textile/fabric β Look at Chapter 63.
- Do not guess! The material determines the chapter.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authorityε―Ήη §)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most likely HS Codes for "Cat Proof Mats," ranked by logical material inference:
| HS Code | Product Description (Inferred) | Material/Type | Primary Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
3926.90.99.89 |
Other articles of plastic | Plastic/Polymer | Durable, waterproof, scratch-resistant mats; rubberized floor mats. |
3926.90.65.50 |
Other plastic articles | Plastic | Specific plastic mats, often rigid or semi-rigid protective sheets. |
4823.90.86.20 |
Pads/Mats (Plastic/Rubber inferred) | Paper/Cardboard + Plastic/Rubber mix | Cat scratchers (cardboard core with plastic/rubber coating) or litter mats. |
6307.90.98.91 |
Other made-up articles (Textile) | Textile/Fabric/Felt | Washable fabric mats, felt pads, carpet-like pet mats. |
4823.90.80.00 |
Gaskets/Protective articles (Plastic/Fiber) | Fiber/Cardboard | Generic paper/fiber-based pads, often used for litter absorption or scratch protection. |
π Critical Reminder:
- "Cat Proof" is a marketing term, not a customs description.
- If the mat is plastic,3926.90.99.89is the safest "other plastics" bet unless it fits a more specific plastic category.
- If the mat is cardboard (e.g., a scratching post pad),4823.90.86.20or4823.90.80.00applies.
- If the mat is fabric,6307.90.98.91applies.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
β οΈ Note: All rates below include Section 301 Tariffs (USITC) and IEEPA Tariffs.
π― 1. 3926.90.99.89 ββ Other Articles of Plastic (Most Common for Durable Mats)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Add-on (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Add-on (China) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 22.8% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO (Deny de minimis) |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3926.90.99.89 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- This is a mid-to-high tariff category.
- Plastic pet products are heavily scrutinized.
- Cost Impact: For a $1,000 shipment, tax = $228.
π― 2. 3926.90.65.50 ββ Other Plastic Articles
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Add-on (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Add-on (China) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 14.2% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 14.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3926.90.65.50 |
π Explanation:
- Lowest Plastic Rate in the dataset.
- If your mat is purely plastic and fits this subheading, choose this code.
- Cost Impact: For a $1,000 shipment, tax = $142.
π― 3. 4823.90.86.20 ββ Pads/Mats (Paper/Plastic-Rubber)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Add-on (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Add-on (China) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:4823.90.86.20 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- High surcharge due to Section 301 (25%).
- Even with 0% base tariff, the total is 35%.
- Cost Impact: For a $1,000 shipment, tax = $350.
π― 4. 6307.90.98.91 ββ Other Made-Up Articles (Textile)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 7.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Add-on (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Add-on (China) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 24.5% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 24.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:6307.90.98.91 |
π Explanation:
- Applicable for fabric/felt cat mats.
- Cost Impact: For a $1,000 shipment, tax = $245.
π― 5. 4823.90.80.00 ββ Gaskets/Protective Articles (Fiber/Paper)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Add-on (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Add-on (China) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:4823.90.80.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Same high tariff as4823.90.86.20.
- Avoid if possible due to high 301 tariff.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Prepare the Following Documents (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must explicitly state material composition (e.g., "100% PVC," "Cardboard Core with Plastic Coating," "Polyester Fabric"). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show texture, thickness, and any labels indicating material. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Do NOT use vague terms like "Cat Proof." Use precise terms like "Plastic Pet Mat" or "Cardboard Cat Scratcher." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Ensure weight and dimensions match the HS code's typical profile. |
| β Third-Party Test Reports | βοΈ | If claiming "waterproof" or "scratch-resistant," reports help justify material classification. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βMaterial is King, Function is Queen!β
βPlastic = Ch 39, Paper = Ch 48, Fabric = Ch 63.β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVC/Rubber Mat | 3926.90.99.89 or 3926.90.65.50 |
"Cat Scratch Pad" | Misclassification β 35%+ tariff |
| Cardboard Scratcher | 4823.90.86.20 |
"Plastic Mat" | Delay/Seizure |
| Fabric Pet Rug | 6307.90.98.91 |
"Rubber Mat" | Delay/Seizure |
| Mixed Material Mat | Split Declaration or Primary Material | "Cat Proof Mat" | Confusion β Higher Duty |
β 3. Special Cases & Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Cat Scratchers (Cardboard + Glue) | Declare as 4823.90.86.20 (Paper/Cardboard product). |
| Washable Fabric Mats | Declare as 6307.90.98.91 (Textile product). |
| Plastic Litter Trapping Mats | Declare as 3926.90.99.89 (Plastic product). |
| "All-in-One" Cat Station | If it includes a bed (fabric) and a litter tray (plastic), split the shipment or declare as the primary component. Do not lump into one vague HS code. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.99.89 (Plastic) |
22.8% | High due to 301 + IEEPA. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 6307.90.98.91 (Fabric) |
24.5% | Slightly higher base rate. |
| π¨π³ China | Varies | 5-7% | Low base rates, no US-style add-ons. |
| πͺπΊ EU | Varies | 0-4% | No Section 301 equivalents, but check EPR/Recycling fees. |
| π¬π§ UK | Varies | 0-6% | Post-Brexit tariffs, generally moderate. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for pet mats due to dual tariffs (301 + IEEPA).
- Plastic mats (3926.90.65.50) offer the lowest rate (14.2%) among plastic options.
- Paper/Cardboard mats (4823) are the most expensive (35%) due to the 25% Section 301 tariff.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Using "Cat Proof Mat" as the product name without specifying material.
π Consequence: Customs will guess, often assigning the highest duty code or holding shipment for clarification.
β Mistake 2: Declaring a plastic mat as "Textile" to avoid Section 301.
π Consequence: Seizure, fines, and potential blacklisting for fraudulent declaration.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the IEEPA 10% surcharge.
π Consequence: Profit margin erosion. 10% is significant for low-margin pet products.
β Mistake 4: Assuming all "mats" are the same.
π Consequence: A plastic mat and a fabric mat can differ in duty by 10-20%.
β Correct Approach:
"PVC Pet Floor Mat, Waterproof, Anti-Slip, 100% Synthetic Polymer, Model XYZ"
OR
"Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad, Compressed Paper, Model ABC"
π― 7. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Material Dictates Chapter."
πΉ "Plastic can be 14.2% or 22.8%."
πΉ "Paper is 35% β Avoid if possible."
πΉ "Fabric is 24.5% β Moderate risk."
π Pro Tip:
If your product is made in Vietnam, Thailand, or Mexico, you may exempt from USITC 301 tariffs, reducing the total rate significantly.
Recommendation: Apply for an Advance Ruling with US Customs if your product has a unique material composition.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker.
π Provide material specs (not just "cat mat").
π Ensure compliance, reduce costs, and clear customs smoothly!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your profit margin depends on the right HS Code!
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.