Character Decorations
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9505906000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9505102500 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9503000073 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9503000071 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7018105000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π Character Decorations: HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide (2026 Latest Tariff Analysis)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What are "Character Decorations"?
Character Decorations typically refer to decorative items shaped like anime figures, cartoon characters, movie idols, or popular mascots. These items are used for: * Home/Office Decor: Shelves, desks, car interiors. * Event Party Supplies: Themed birthday parties, holidays (Christmas, Halloween). * Gifts: Collectible items for fans.
In international trade, these items are often ambiguous because they can be classified as Toys, Christmas Decorations, Glass/Ceramic Artifacts, or General Decorative Articles, depending on their material, intended use, and form.
β οΈ Key Distinction Points: * Is it a "Toy"? If it has moving parts, is made of plastic, and is clearly marketed for childrenβs play β Chapter 95 (Toys). * Is it "Seasonal"? If it is specifically shaped like Santa, Snowman, or Pumpkins for holiday display β Chapter 95 (Christmas Decorations) or 9505. * Is it "Artistic/Static"? If it is a static figurine made of glass, ceramic, or resin, primarily for display β Chapter 70 (Glass) or 9505 (Other Decorations).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Reference)
Based on the provided data, here are the 5 possible HS Codes for "Character Decorations," ranked by likelihood and material/use scenario:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material/Use Check |
|---|---|---|---|
9505.90.60.00 |
Other festive or carnival articles (General Decorations) | Static character statues, resin figurines, general home decor items that donβt fit specific toy or holiday categories. | β No Material Conflict; Classified as "Other Decorative Articles". |
9505.10.25.00 |
Other Christmas Decorations | Character-shaped items specifically for Christmas (e.g., Santa dolls, Elf figures, Snowman charms). | β Fits "Festival/Entertainment" use; Classified as "Other Christmas Decorations". |
9503.00.00.73 |
Dolls; other toys (Non-Educational/Non-Specific) | Character figures that resemble dolls or action figures but lack specific educational features or complex mechanical functions. | β Fits "Toy" category; Classified as "Dolls, Other Toys". |
9503.00.00.71 |
Dolls; other toys (General) | General character toys, plastic action figures, or plush characters intended for play. | β Fits "Toy" category; Classified as "Dolls, Other Toys". |
7018.10.50.00 |
Glass, Crystal, or Similar Small Articles | Decorative character statues made primarily of glass, crystal, or imitation gems (e.g., glass snow globes with character figures). | β Fits Material & Form; Classified as "Glass/Gem-like Small Articles". |
π Critical Reminder: * Plastic/Resin Static Figures: Often fall under
9505.90.60.00(Decorations) if not clearly toys, OR9503...(Toys) if marketed for children. * Glass/Crystal Figures: MUST be classified under7018.10.50.00due to material priority, even if they look like toys. * Holiday-Specific: If the character is clearly tied to a holiday (e.g., Christmas),9505.10.25.00is preferred over general decorations.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US) β Origin: China (CN) β Effective Time: November 10, 2025 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9505.90.60.00 & 9505.10.25.00 & 9503.00.00.73 & 9503.00.00.71
(Most Common Scenarios: Plastic/Resin Toys & General Decorations)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Duty | 0% |
| Section 122 Duty (USITC Footnote 9903.01.25) | +10% (Specific to Chinese origin for these categories) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 10% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | β No (denied_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:9505.90.60.00 / 9503.00.00.73 etc. |
π Explanation: * The Base Tariff is 0%, but a 10% "Section 122" duty applies specifically to these HS codes originating from China. * This is a lower-risk category compared to glass products. * Total Cost Impact: 10% of the CIF value.
π― 2. 7018.10.50.00
(Glass/Crystal Character Decorations)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Duty | +25% (Under USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Duty (USITC Footnote 9903.01.25) | +10% (Specific to Chinese origin) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | β No (denied_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:7018.10.50.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation: * Glass products face higher scrutiny and tariffs. * The 25% USITC Additional Duty is significant. * Total Cost Impact: 35% of the CIF value. High-risk category for profit margins!
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Note |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail material (Plastic/Resin/Glass), dimensions, and intended use (Play vs. Decor). |
| β Product Photos (Clear) | βοΈ | Show the character shape, packaging, and any "Warning: Not for Children under 3" labels. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Character Decorations" or "Action Figures." Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Goods." |
| β Origin Certificate (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for proving CN origin. If non-CN, may qualify for lower rates. |
| β Packaging List | βοΈ | Indicate if items are sold as sets (e.g., "Set of 5 Characters"). |
| β Safety Compliance Certs | βοΈ | If classified as Toys (9503), CPSIA/ASTM F963 certification may be required by CBP. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Material Defines Code, Use Defines Duty!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic Action Figure (Play) | HS: 9503.00.00.71Name: "Plastic Toy Action Figure" |
Misdeclare as "Decor" β 9505 (Still 10%, but audit risk if safety certs missing). |
| Static Resin Statue (Decor) | HS: 9505.90.60.00Name: "Resin Character Decorative Statue" |
Misdeclare as "Toy" β Requires CPSIA, higher clearance friction. |
| Glass Snow Globe (Character) | HS: 7018.10.50.00Name: "Glass Christmas Decoration" |
Misdeclare as "Plastic Toy" β Severe misclassification penalty + 35% vs 10% gap. |
| Christmas Elf Doll | HS: 9505.10.25.00Name: "Christmas Decorative Doll" |
Generic declaration β Risk of reclassification. |
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipments (Toys + Decor) | Declare separately! Do not mix 9503 (Toys) and 7018 (Glass) in one line item. CBP may split and audit. |
| OEM/Custom Orders | Provide design drawings to prove intent (Play vs. Display). |
| "For Collectors Only" Label | Helps argue for 9505 (Decor) rather than 9503 (Toy), avoiding strict toy safety regulations, but tax rate remains 10% in this dataset. |
| Glass Items | Double-check material! If thereβs any doubt, assume 7018.10.50.00 (35%) to avoid penalties. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9505.90.60.00 / 9503... |
10% (China) | FCC (if electronic), CPSIA (if toy) | High tariff on Glass (7018 at 35%). |
| π¨π³ China | 9505.90.60.00 |
5% | CCC (if toy) | Lower base tariff. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9505.90.90 |
0-4% | CE Mark, EN71 | No "Section 122" equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9505.90.00 |
0-5% | UKCA, EN71 | Post-Brexit tariffs vary. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 9505.10.00 |
0% | PSE (if electrical) | Low barrier for decorations. |
π Conclusion: * The USA imposes the highest specific surcharges (10% or 35%) on these items compared to other major markets. * Glass character decorations are significantly more expensive to import into the US due to the 25% USITC additional duty. * Plastic/Resin items face a manageable 10% additional duty.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring a Glass snow globe as a Plastic Toy.
π Consequence: If caught, CBP will reclassify to 7018.10.50.00 β Tax jumps from 10% to 35% + Penalties!
β Error 2: Ignoring "Intended Use."
π Consequence: If a "Toy" (9503) lacks CPSIA certification, it may be detained at customs, causing delays and storage fees.
β Error 3: Vague Description "Plastic Character." π Consequence: CBP assigns a default HS code with higher duties or requires manual classification, slowing clearance by 7-14 days.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Resin Static Figurine, Character Design, For Home Decor, Not a Toy, Model: XYZ, HS Code: 9505.90.60.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Optimization!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Plastic/Resin = 10% (Toy/Decor); Glass = 35% (Glass Art)!" πΉ "Toy? Ensure Safety Certs. Decor? Ensure Material Clarity."
π Pro Tip: * If your product is non-Chinese origin (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand), you may avoid the 10% Section 122 duty entirely! * Always request Pre-Classification Rulings from CBP if your product is on the boundary between "Toy" and "Decoration."
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide product photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling π Ensure smooth clearance, minimize tariffs, and maximize profit!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification! πΌ Every cent of cost deserves precise calculation!
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.