Colored Wide Film for Long term Storage
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3920992000 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921110000 | 40.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921190090 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905060 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π¦ Colored Wide Film for Long-Term Storage: HS Code Classification & US Customs Strategy
π HS Code Reference & Customs Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π One: Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Colored Wide Film"?
"Colored Wide Film for Long-Term Storage" refers to flat, flexible plastic sheets or foils, typically used in industrial packaging, protective wrapping, or specialized storage applications. In international trade, these products are broadly categorized under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof).
The critical distinction lies in the material composition and surface treatment: - Self-Adhesive vs. Non-Adhesive: Films with adhesive backing (like tapes) fall under HS 3919. Films without adhesive (just plastic rolls/sheets) fall under HS 3920 or 3921. - Base Polymer: Is it Polystyrene (PS), Polyethylene (PE), or a generic "Other Plastic"? This determines whether it goes to 3920 or 3921.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the film is self-adhesive (has a glue layer on one side) β Classify under 3919.90.xxxx.
- If the film is non-adhesive and made of Polystyrene (PS) β Classify under 3921.11.00.00.
- If the film is non-adhesive and made of Other Plastics (e.g., PE, PP, PVC) β Classify under 3920.99.20.00 or 3921.19.00.90.
π¦ Two: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
Based on the provided data, here are the specific HS Codes for "Colored Wide Film" and their corresponding tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Material/State | Total Tax Rate | Tax Breakdown (US Origin from China) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
3920.99.20.00 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics, unworkable in any way. | Plastic (General) | 39.2% | Base: 4.2% + Sec 301: 25.0% + 122 Clause: 10% |
3921.11.00.00 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics. | Polystyrene (PS) | 40.3% | Base: 5.3% + Sec 301: 25.0% + 122 Clause: 10% |
3921.19.00.90 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics. | Plastic (Other) | 41.5% | Base: 6.5% + Sec 301: 25.0% + 122 Clause: 10% |
3919.90.50.60 |
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics. | Plastic (Adhesive) | 40.8% | Base: 5.8% + Sec 301: 25.0% + 122 Clause: 10% |
3919.90.50.40 |
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics. | Plastic (Adhesive) | 40.8% | Base: 5.8% + Sec 301: 25.0% + 122 Clause: 10% |
π Important Note:
- HS 3919 applies if the film has an adhesive backing (e.g., sticky tape, self-adhesive labels).
- HS 3920/3921 applies if the film is non-adhesive (e.g., shrink wrap, protective polyethylene sheets).
- HS 3921.11 is specific to Polystyrene. If the material is not PS, do not use this code.
- HS 3921.19 is a "catch-all" for non-adhesive plastics not specified elsewhere in 3921.11.
π° Three: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Detailed Explanation (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Current rates include Section 301 and "122 Clause" surcharges.
π― 1. 3920.99.20.00 ββ Non-Adhesive Plastic Film (General Plastic)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (Section 301/122 goods are excluded) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3920.99.20.00 β 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β 122: Statutory Authority |
π Explanation:
- This is the most common code for general-purpose plastic films (like PE or PP) that are not self-adhesive.
- The 39.2% rate is heavy. It includes the standard USITC duty (4.2%), the Trump-era Section 301 tariff (25%), and the additional 10% surcharge.
- Warning: Misclassifying as "Textile" or "Paper" will lead to severe penalties. It must be classified under Chapter 39.
π― 2. 3921.11.00.00 ββ Non-Adhesive Polystyrene Film
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3921.11.00.00 β 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β 122: Statutory Authority |
π Note:
- Polystyrene (PS) films are stiffer and more brittle than PE films.
- If your "wide film" is made of PS, you must use this code. Using3920.99.20.00for PS films is incorrect and may trigger an audit.
π― 3. 3921.19.00.90 ββ Non-Adhesive Plastic Film (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3921.19.00.90 β 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β 122: Statutory Authority |
π Note:
- This is the highest base rate among the non-adhesive codes. Use only if the plastic is not Polystyrene (3921.11) and does not fit other specific sub-headings.
- Often used for complex laminated films or specialty plastics.
π― 4. 3919.90.50.60 & 3919.90.50.40 ββ Self-Adhesive Plastic Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3919.90.50.xxxx β 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β 122: Statutory Authority |
π Note:
- These codes apply ONLY if the film has an adhesive backing.
-50.60and50.40are sub-variations based on specific product characteristics (e.g., width, material type). Ensure the product description matches the exact sub-code.
- Common uses: Self-adhesive labels, protective sticky films, adhesive tapes.
π οΈ Four: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: Material (PE/PS/Other), Thickness, Width, Adhesive vs. Non-Adhesive |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | βοΈ | Confirms chemical composition (critical for plastic classification) |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear shots of the roll, cross-section, and any adhesive layer |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly state "Colored Wide Plastic Film" and HS Code |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Show weight/volume for duty calculation |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | Required to confirm Chinese origin for Section 301/122 application |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Adhesive is 3919, No-Adhesive is 3920/21. Material Type Matters. Don't Guess!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Sticky Film / Tape | HS 3919.90.50.xxxx | Misdeclaring as 3920 (Non-adhesive) β Under-declaration Risk |
| PE Shrink Wrap | HS 3920.99.20.00 | Misdeclaring as 3921 (PS) β Classification Error |
| PS Sheet/Film | HS 3921.11.00.00 | Using generic "Other Plastic" code β Base Tariff Error |
| Generic Plastic Roll | HS 3921.19.00.90 | Using 3920 if it fits 3921 better β Audit Risk |
β 3. Special Situation Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Multi-Layer Laminates | If layers are different plastics, the principal material determines the code. Provide layer breakdown. |
| Colored vs. Clear | Color does not change the HS Code. It only affects the product description. |
| Long-Term Storage Packaging | Ensure the description includes "For Long-Term Storage" to avoid confusion with "Food Packaging" (which may have additional FDA requirements). |
| Width Issues | "Wide Film" implies industrial rolls. Ensure dimensions are stated to distinguish from consumer-grade rolls. |
π Five: Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3920.99.20.00 / 3919.90.50.xxxx |
39.2% - 41.5% | FDA (if food contact), CPC (if kids) | High Duty due to Sec 301 + 122 |
| π¨π³ China | 3920.99.20.00 / 3919.90.50.xxxx |
~4.2% - 6.5% | CCC (if applicable) | No Section 301/122 |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3920.99.00 / 3919.90.00 |
6.5% | REACH Compliance | No additional US-style surcharges |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 3920.99.00.90 / 3919.90.00.90 |
5.0% - 6.0% | Health Canada | CUSMA may apply for non-Chinese origin |
| π²π½ Mexico | 3920.99.00 / 3919.90.00 |
0% - 5% | NOM Standards | USMCA benefits if eligible |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to theε ε (stacking) of Base + Sec 301 + 122 Clause.
- Accurate material identification (PS vs. Other) is crucial to avoid base tariff mismatches.
- Adhesive status is the biggest classifier split (3919 vs. 3920/21).
π Six: Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Self-Adhesive Film as Non-Adhesive (3920)
π Consequence: Under-declaration of duty β Penalties + Back Taxes!
π Correction: Always check for adhesive backing. If sticky, use 3919.
β Mistake 2: Using Generic "Plastic" Code for Polystyrene (3921.11)
π Consequence: Wrong base tariff (6.5% vs 5.3%) β Audit Risk
π Correction: Identify polymer type. If PS, use 3921.11.00.00.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring "122 Clause" Surcharge
π Consequence: Budgeting error β Profit Margin Loss
π Correction: Always include +10% in cost calculations for US imports from China.
β Mistake 4: Vague Product Description "Plastic Film"
π Consequence: Customs Holds for Inspection β Delays
π Correction: Use precise terms: "Non-adhesive Polyethylene Colored Wide Film, Width 1.2m, for Industrial Storage Packaging".
β Correct Approach:
"Self-Adhesive Polystyrene Colored Film, Width 60cm, for Protective Storage, Model XYZ, HS 3919.90.50.60"
π― Seven: Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Adhesive = 3919, Non-Adhesive = 3920/21"
πΉ "PS = 3921.11, Other = 3921.19 or 3920"
πΉ "USA Duty = Base + 25% + 10% = High Cost!"
π Pro Tip:
If your film is not for food contact, explicitly state "Non-Food Grade" to simplify FDA compliance.
For US imports, Pre-Ruling (Ruling Letter) is highly recommended due to the complexity of Section 301/122 application.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact Customs Broker + Provide Material Specs + Confirm Adhesive Status
π Accurate HS Code = Faster Clearance + Predictable Costs
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Your Cost Efficiency Depends on Your Duty Rate Accuracy!
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.