Color Film (Low Noise)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9002204000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9002208000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921190010 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921905010 | 39.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3702410100 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ Color Film (Low Noise) | Low Haze Film
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Is "Low Noise Color Film"?
"Color Film (Low Noise)" is a specialized optical or photographic material. The term "Low Noise" in the context of film typically refers to Low Haze (optical clarity) or Low Grain/Noise (photographic quality).
In international trade, this product falls into two distinct categories based on its material composition and functional purpose: 1. Optical Component: If it is a clear/translucent plastic/polymer film used as a filter, lens accessory, or light-diffusing layer in electronic/optical devices. 2. Photographic Sensitizer: If it is actual photographic roll film (emulsion on a base) used for capturing images.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is a functional plastic/polymer film (e.g., for optical filters, protective layers, or display accessories) β It is classified under Chapter 90 (Optics) or Chapter 39 (Plastics).
- If the product is photographic roll film (chemical emulsion for capturing images) β It is classified under Chapter 37 (Photographic Goods).
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the four most likely HS Codes with their specific tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Matching Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
9002.20.40.00 |
Optical Elements, Filters/Lenses | Optical components, color filters, precision optical films | β Match: Matches "Optical Element" + "Film-like" shape. No material conflict. |
9002.20.80.00 |
Other Optical Elements, Filters/Accessories | General optical filters, accessories not specifically listed | β Match: Matches "Optical Element" + "Filter" attribute. Inferred optical-grade material. |
3921.19.00.10 |
Other Plastic Sheets/Films | Plastic/Polymer-based films, protective layers, industrial films | β Match: Matches "Film" shape + Inferred Plastic/Polymer material. |
3921.90.50.10 |
Other Plastic Articles | Other plastic films, foils, or sheets not specified elsewhere | β Match: Matches "Film" shape + Plastic material. General "Other" category. |
3702.41.01.00 |
Photographic Film, >105mm, Color | Wide-format color photographic roll film | β Match: Matches "Wide format Film" + "Color" + Inferred Photosensitive material. |
π Critical Reminder:
- If the film is not photosensitive (i.e., just a plastic sheet used for optics or protection), DO NOT use3702.41.01.00. It must go to 9002 or 3921. - If the film is photosensitive (actual camera film), it MUST go to 3702.41.01.00. - Misclassification between "Optical Plastic" (39/90) and "Photographic Film" (37) leads to significant duty differences and potential customs delays.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (inclusive)
π― 1. 9002.20.40.00 β Optical Elements, Filters/Lenses
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +25% (Section 301 / USITC Footnote) |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% (China/Hong Kong origin, IEEPA Section 122) |
| Total Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:9002.20.40.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Base 0%: Standard duty for optical instruments is often low or zero. - +25%: Section 301 tariff for Chinese goods. - +10%: IEEPA Section 122 tariff for Chinese goods. - Total 35%: A moderate-high tariff. Common for high-tech optical components.
π― 2. 9002.20.80.00 β Other Optical Elements, Filters/Accessories
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0% |
| USITC Surtax | +25% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:9002.20.80.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Same tax rate as9002.20.40.00. - Applies if the product is an optical filter/accessory that doesn't fit the specific sub-category of40.
π― 3. 3921.19.00.10 β Other Plastic Sheets/Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 6.5% |
| USITC Surtax | +25% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3921.19.00.10 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Base 6.5%: Higher base duty for general plastics. - +25% + 10%: Same surtaxes apply. - Total 41.5%: Highest Tariff Among Non-Photographic Options. This is for generic plastic films used for non-optical or general purposes.
π― 4. 3921.90.50.10 β Other Plastic Articles
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 4.8% |
| USITC Surtax | +25% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 39.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 39.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3921.90.50.10 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Slightly lower base duty than3921.19, but still high due to surtaxes. - Used for plastic films that don't fit the "Sheets/Films" specific definition of19.
π― 5. 3702.41.01.00 β Photographic Film, >105mm, Color
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 3.7% |
| USITC Surtax | +25% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 38.7% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3702.41.01.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Base 3.7%: Low base duty for photographic goods. - +25% + 10%: Surtaxes still apply. - Total 38.7%: Most Cost-Effective IF the product is actually photographic film. - CRITICAL: Only use this if the product contains light-sensitive emulsion for image capture. If it's just a plastic sheet, using this code is customs fraud or a serious misdeclaration.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation List (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: Dimensions, Material (Plastic vs. Photosensitive), "Low Noise/Clarity" definition, Usage (Optical vs. Photographic). |
| β Product Photos (Clear Labels) | βοΈ | Show roll size, packaging, any chemical labels (for 3702) or optical specs (for 9002). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly describe: "Color Film, Low Haze/Noise, [Material Type] for [Purpose]." Avoid vague terms like "Film". |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for determining surtax applicability. |
| β Packaging List | βοΈ | Detailing roll count, length, and weight. |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | β οΈ Conditional | Required if 3702: Chemical composition of emulsion. Not required if 9002/3921: Unless it's a hazardous plastic. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Define Material First, Define Use Second, Tax Changes Completely!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical Filter Film (Plastic, for cameras/devices) | 9002.20.40.00 |
Declare as "Plastic Film" (3921) |
Risk of audit, but tax is similar (35% vs 41.5%). Better to declare as Optical for compliance. |
| General Plastic Film (Packaging/Protective) | 3921.19.00.10 |
Declare as "Optical Film" | Risk of rejection if no optical specs provided. |
| Actual Camera Film (Rolls for photos) | 3702.41.01.00 |
Declare as "Plastic Film" | Tax Savings: 38.7% vs 41.5%. But requires MSDS and chemical declarations. |
| Wide Format Photo Film (>105mm) | 3702.41.01.00 |
Declare as 3702.41 generic |
Ensure width is indeed >105mm. If smaller, different code applies. |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Low Noise" Means "Low Haze" (Optical Clarity) | Explicitly state "Low Haze Optical Film" in description. Use 9002 or 3921. Do not use 3702. |
| "Low Noise" Means "Low Grain" (Photographic Quality) | Explicitly state "Color Photographic Film, Low Grain". Use 3702.41.01.00. Provide chemical specs. |
| Sample vs. Commercial Order | Samples still face the same 35-41% duties. No de minimis exemption for China-origin. |
| Mixed Shipments | If Optical Film and Photographic Film are in one box, must separate in invoice and declaration. Mixed codes lead to delays. |
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9002.20.40.00 or 3702.41.01.00 |
35% (Optical) 38.7% (Photo) |
No specific cert for film, but chemical safety for 3702 | High surtaxes (25% + 10%) apply to all chapters. |
| π¨π³ China | 9002.20.40.00 or 3702.41.01.00 |
3.5% - 6% | N/A | Low import duties, no surtaxes. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9002.20.40.00 or 3702.41.00 |
0% - 3% | REACH (Chemicals) | No Section 301 type surtaxes. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9002.20.40.00 or 3702.41.00 |
0% - 3% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules, generally low tariffs. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 (25%) and IEEPA (10%) surtaxes. - Optical Film (9002) is the safest bet for non-photosensitive films, with a total rate of 35%. - Photographic Film (3702) offers a slight tax advantage (38.7%) if the product is truly photographic, but comes with stricter chemical documentation requirements. - General Plastic Film (3921) is the most expensive non-photographic option (41.5%).
π Part 6: Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Color Film" as "Plastic Wrap" (3921) without specifying "Optical" or "Photographic"
π Consequence: Customs may reject it for ambiguity or assign the highest default rate.
π Fix: Always specify End Use (Optical Filter vs. Photo Taking).
β Mistake 2: Using 3702.41.01.00 for clear plastic sheets
π Consequence: Customs will request MSDS/Chemical declarations. If none provided, goods are held.
π Fix: If not photosensitive, use 9002.20.40.00 (Optical) or 3921 (Plastic).
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the "Low Noise" definition
π Consequence: "Low Noise" is not a standard customs term. Is it Low Haze (Optical) or Low Grain (Photo)?
π Fix: Translate "Low Noise" to Low Haze (for optics) or Low Grain (for photos) in the declaration.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Optical Color Filter Film, Low Haze, Plastic Material, Width 50cm, For Camera Lens Accessory, HS Code 9002.20.40.00"
OR
"Color Photographic Roll Film, Low Grain, 120 Format, Width 105mm, For Still Photography, HS Code 3702.41.01.00"
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Precision Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Optical = 9002 (35%) | Plastic = 3921 (41.5%) | Photo = 3702 (38.7%)"
πΉ "Define 'Low Noise': Haze or Grain? Optics or Chemistry?"
πΉ "Always declare material and end-use clearly to avoid audits!"
π Pro Tip:
If your "Color Film" is imported from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may exempt IEEPA Section 122 tariffs, reducing the total rate by 10%.
Always apply for a Pre-Ruling if the product's nature (Optical vs. Photographic) is ambiguous.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker + Provide Product Specs + Clarify "Low Noise" Meaning
π Ensure smooth clearance, accurate taxation, and avoid port delays!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percentage Point of Duty Counts!
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.