Corn Husk Basket
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4602191800 | 39.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4602900000 | 38.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π½ Corn Husk Basket (Wicker/Basketware)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Ready for "Corn Husk" Products?
Corn husk baskets, often categorized under basketwork, wickerwork, and other articles made directly to shape from plaiting materials, fall under Chapter 46 of the Harmonized System. Specifically, these are natural vegetable materials (like corn husks, rattan, bamboo, or reeds) woven into finished articles.
However, the classification hinges on two critical factors: 1. Shape/Method: Are they "made directly to shape" from plaiting materials (Heading 4602)? 2. Specific Description: Are they "baskets and bags" (specific subcategory)?
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the basket is a specific type of "basket or bag" (e.g., grocery bags, storage baskets with handles, open weave for produce), it falls under 4602.19.18.00.
- If the item is a "wickerwork article" that does not fit the specific definition of a "basket or bag" (e.g., decorative trays, hat boxes, non-bag-like woven containers), it falls under 4602.90.00.00.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Rate (China Origin β US) |
|---|---|---|---|
4602.19.18.00 |
Baskets and bags, whether or not lined: Other baskets and bags, whether or not lined: Other (Vegetable materials) | Corn husk produce bags, grocery sacks, woven shopping baskets, storage bins with lids/handles | 0.0% (Base 0% + Addl 0%) |
4602.90.00.00 |
Basketwork, wickerwork and other articles, made directly to shape from plaiting materials: Other | Decorative corn husk wreaths, non-bag woven mats, hat boxes, decorative trays, loose wicker baskets not classified as "bags" | 28.5% (Base 3.5% + Addl 25%) |
π Key Reminder:
- The term "Basket" in trade often triggers scrutiny. If itβs a bag-like structure (open top, handles, used for carrying goods), customs likely sees it as 4602.19.18.00.
- If itβs a rigid, decorative, or container-like item not fitting the "bag" definition, it falls into the residual category 4602.90.00.00, which is subject to Section 301 tariffs.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Post-2025 tariff rules apply (Section 301 & IEEPA)
π― 1. 4602.19.18.00 ββ Corn Husk Baskets/Bags (Vegetable Materials)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0% (Exempted for certain basketware/bags) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0% (No extra levy for this specific heading) |
| Total Tariff | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (If applicable under current small package rules) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:4602.19.18.00 β No additional footnotes for Section 301 liability |
π Explanation:
- This is a zero-tariff category for Chinese-origin corn husk baskets/bags.
- It is widely used for eco-friendly produce bags, grocery totes, and woven storage baskets.
- Critical: Ensure the product description clearly states "Basket" or "Bag" made of "Corn Husks" to justify this code.
π― 2. 4602.90.00.00 ββ Other Wickerwork/Basketware Articles
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% (Applicable to most wicker/basketware not exempted) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | Not explicitly listed as separate; included in total |
| Total Tariff | 28.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High tariff items often excluded from de minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:4602.90.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:9903.01.25 |
π Explanation:
- This code captures non-bag woven items.
- High Risk: If you ship a "Corn Husk Basket" for decorative use, and customs classifies it as "Other Article" (not a bag), you face 28.5%.
- Cost Impact: For a $1,000 shipment, you pay $285 in duties alone.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Made from 100% Natural Corn Husks," "Plaited/Woven," "Shape: Basket/Bag" |
| β Photos (Front, Back, Inside, Material Close-up) | βοΈ | Prove itβs a "basket/bag" (handles, open top) vs. a "tray" or "hat box" |
| β Bill of Materials (BOM) | βοΈ | Confirm no synthetic linings (which might change classification to Chapter 4601 or 6307) |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description: "Corn Husk Woven Basket, for Grocery Storage" (Avoid vague "Decorative Item") |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Show quantity and weight per unit |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Bag = 0%, Other = 28.5%! Describe Shape, Not Just Material!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Risk of Misclassification |
|---|---|---|
| Corn Husk Grocery Bag | 4602.19.18.00 |
Low risk if handles/open top visible |
| Corn Husk Storage Bin with Lid | 4602.19.18.00 |
CRITICAL: Must be classified as "Basket" not "Container" |
| Corn Husk Decorative Tray | 4602.90.00.00 |
High tariff applies; label as "Tray" to avoid 0% claim |
| Corn Husk Wreath | 4602.90.00.00 |
Not a basket; definitely "Other Article" |
| Synthetic Liner Inside Basket | Re-evaluate | May move to Chapter 4601 (Plaiting Materials) or 6307 (Other Made-Up Articles) |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipment (Bags + Trays) | Separate lines on invoice! Donβt lump under one HS code. Bags β 4602.19.18.00; Trays β 4602.90.00.00. |
| Lined Baskets | If lined with fabric, ensure the lining is not the "essential character." If lining is significant, it may fall under 4601 (Plaiting materials) β 0% Base, but check Section 301. Consult customs broker. |
| Eco-Friendly Marketing | Do not use "Eco-Friendly" as the primary product name in customs data. Use functional names: "Corn Husk Woven Basket, Model X." |
| Pre-Made vs. DIY Kits | DIY kits may fall under 4601 (Plaiting materials) or 9503 (Toys/Models). Complex classification; seek pre-ruling. |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4602.19.18.00 |
0% | None specific | β οΈ If misclassified as 4602.90, pay 28.5% |
| π¨π³ China | 4602.19.18.00 |
0% | None | Domestic trade |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4602.19.18.00 |
0% | PEFC/FSC (if wood), but corn husk is agri-waste | Generally low duty |
| π¬π§ UK | 4602.19.18.00 |
0% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 4602.19.18.00 |
5% | Biosecurity Check | Biosecurity Risk! Corn husks may require fumigation or phytosanitary certificate |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most favorable market for corn husk baskets/bags (0% duty).
- Biosecurity is a major hurdle in Australia/Canada for natural vegetable materials. Ensure fumigation certificates are ready.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Labeling a Corn Husk Tray as a "Basket" to get 0% tariff
π Consequence: Customs inspection reveals rigid, non-carrying structure β Re-classified to 4602.90.00.00 β 28.5% Duty + Penalties!
β Error 2: Not declaring "Corn Husk" as natural material
π Consequence: Customs assumes synthetic β May fall under 3926 (Plastics) or 6307 (Other textiles) β Different duty rates.
β Error 3: Shipping to Australia without Biosecurity Permit
π Consequence: Shipment held at border, fumigated, or destroyed. Natural plant materials are high-risk.
β Error 4: Combining Lined Baskets with Unlined Bags on One Line Item
π Consequence: Classification error β Delayed clearance β Demurrage fees.
β Correct Practice:
"Corn Husk Woven Grocery Basket, Handles, Open Top, Unlined, Model A-1" β 4602.19.18.00
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Maximize Profit!
π― Remember the Rule:
πΉ "Bag/Basket Shape = 0% | Other Shape = 28.5%!"
πΉ "Describe Function, Not Just Material!"
π Pro Tip:
- For US imports, always emphasize the "Basket" or "Bag" nature in the commercial invoice.
- For Biosecurity-sensitive countries (Australia, NZ, Canada), prepare Phytosanitary Certificates in advance.
- Consider applying for an Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) with US CBP if your product is borderline (e.g., a basket with a rigid lid).
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact your customs broker with photos and a detailed description.
π Ensure "Basket" or "Bag" is in the description to lock in the 0% tariff.
πΌ Profit Protection: Avoid the 28.5% penalty by correct classification!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every dollar saved in duty is pure profit!
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.