Colored Disc Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3919102055 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π¨ Colored Disc Film (Color Filter / Optical Film)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Colored Disc Film"?
"Colored Disc Film" is a niche term often used to describe optical plastic films used in display technologies, light diffusion, or decorative applications. In international trade, the critical distinction lies in whether the film is self-adhesive (has a pressure-sensitive backing) or non-adhesive.
Given the data provided in , the classification focuses on Self-Adhesive Plastic Films/Tapes.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the product is a roll of plastic film with a sticky backing (like double-sided tape or colored masking tape) β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics).
- If the product is a bare optical filter without adhesive β It might fall under Chapter 90 (Optical Instruments), but based on the provided data, we are strictly analyzing the Self-Adhesive category.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
According to the provided , the specific HS Code and description are as follows:
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Adhesive Type |
|---|---|---|---|
3919.10.20.55 |
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls: In rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm: Other: Transparent tape | Plastic film/tape, width β€ 20cm, Self-adhesive | β Yes (Pressure-sensitive) |
3919.90.50.40 |
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls: Other: Other Transparent tape | Plastic film/tape, Other (likely wider than 20cm or non-standard), Self-adhesive | β Yes (Pressure-sensitive) |
π Important Note:
- The term "Colored Disc Film" is not explicitly listed in the . However, if this film is self-adhesive and made of plastics, it falls under Heading 3919.
- The specifically mentions "Transparent tape" for both codes, which suggests that colored variants (if self-adhesive) are often grouped under "Other" or similar subcategories unless specifically listed.
- Critical Check: Is the film self-adhesive? If NO, this classification is incorrect. If YES, proceed with 3919.
π° III. 2026 Tariff Rate Breakdown (US Imports from China)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025 onwards (based on current trade policies)
π― 1. HS Code 3919.90.50.40 (Most Likely for "Other" Colored Films)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 25.0% (On Chinese goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 30.8% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value (Cost, Insurance, Freight) Γ 30.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Section 301 duties generally do not qualify for $800 de minimis exemption for certain goods; verify specific exemptions) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 3919.90.50.40 β USITC Footnote β Section 301 List 4A/6 |
π Explanation:
- Base Tariff (5.8%): Standard duty for self-adhesive plastic films of other kinds.
- Section 301 Tariff (25%): Imposed on many Chinese-manufactured plastics and related products under the Trump/Biden trade policy.
- Total Cost Impact: A $10,000 shipment will incur $3,080 in duties.
π― 2. HS Code 3919.10.20.55 (If Width β€ 20cm)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% (Same base rate for most 3919 subheadings) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 25.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 30.8% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 30.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
π Note: The tariff rate is identical because both codes fall under the same base duty and Section 301 list. The distinction is purely based on width and specific subcategory.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Material (e.g., PET, PVC, PE), Color, Thickness, Width, Adhesive Type (Pressure-sensitive, water-activated, etc.). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Self-adhesive colored plastic film, for [specific use, e.g., packaging/display]." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include roll dimensions, core size, and total weight. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for proving Chinese origin to apply correct tariffs. |
| β Photos of Product | βοΈ | Show the film roll, the adhesive side, and any labeling. |
β 2. Critical Classification Tips
π₯ βKnow Your Adhesive, Know Your Tariff!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk of Misclassification |
|---|---|---|
| Self-adhesive plastic film, width > 20cm | 3919.90.50.40 |
High. Misclassifying as non-adhesive leads to severe penalties. |
| Self-adhesive plastic film, width β€ 20cm | 3919.10.20.55 |
Medium. If width is borderline, provide measurement proof. |
| Non-adhesive colored film | β Not 3919 | High Risk. Should likely be under 3920 (Other plates/sheets/film) or 9001 (Optical). Do NOT use 3919 if no adhesive. |
| Paper-based colored tape | β Not 3919 | Should be under Chapter 48 (Paper). |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| Is it "Transparent"? | The mentions "Transparent tape" for 3919.90.50.40. If your film is colored (e.g., red, blue), ensure the HTSUS description allows for "Other" under this subheading. Usually, "Transparent" is a sub-subcategory, so colored films may still fall under "Other" depending on the detailed US HTSUS structure. Verify with a customs broker. |
| Is it for Display/Optical Use? | If itβs a high-end optical filter for LCDs, it might be classified under 9001.50 (Polarizing filters) or 9001.90 (Other optical elements). However, self-adhesive films are typically 3919 unless specifically exempted. |
| De Minimis ($800) Strategy | For shipments under $800, Section 301 duties may still apply depending on the specific good and current CBP enforcement. Do not assume exemption. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Key Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3919.90.50.40 |
30.8% (5.8% + 25%) | None specific | High duty due to Section 301. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3919.90.90 |
4.0% | CE (if applicable) | No Section 301 equivalent. |
| π¨π³ China | 3919.90.90 |
0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower import duty. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3919.90.90 |
4.0% | UKCA (if applicable) | Post-Brexit rates similar to EU. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3919.90.90 |
6.0% | PSE (if electrical) | Moderate duty. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most challenging market due to the 25% Section 301 tariff.
- Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., manufacturing in Vietnam or Thailand) to avoid the 25% surcharge, provided the product undergoes substantial transformation.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Calling it "Transparent Tape" when itβs Colored.
π Consequence: Customs may reject the description as misleading. Use "Colored Self-Adhesive Plastic Film."
β Error 2: Ignoring Adhesive Type.
π Consequence: If itβs not self-adhesive, classifying under 3919 is wrong. It should be 3920 (Non-self-adhesive). This can lead to underpayment of duties or penalties.
β Error 3: Not disclosing Width.
π Consequence: Width determines whether it goes to 3919.10 (β€20cm) or 3919.90 (>20cm). Misdeclaration can cause delays.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Colored Self-Adhesive PET Film, Width 50cm, Pressure-Sensitive, for Decorative Packaging, HS 3919.90.50.40"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Self-Adhesive = 3919; Non-Adhesive = 3920. Width matters for subheading."
πΉ "USA Tariff = 30.8%. Factor this into your pricing!"
πΉ "Colored is still 'Other' under 3919 unless specified."
π Pro Tip:
If your "Colored Disc Film" is not self-adhesive, do NOT use the 30.8% rate. It may qualify for a lower duty under 3920.49.50 (Other non-self-adhesive plastic film). Verify with a customs broker immediately.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Licensed Customs Broker + Provide Product Samples + Request a Binding Ruling (if shipment value is high).
π Ensure your "Colored Disc Film" clears customs smoothly without unexpected 30.8% shocks!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every percent of duty saved is pure profit!
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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.