Dust Mask
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4016990500 | 20.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5603110070 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4016996050 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5603120070 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π· Dust Mask / Respiratory Covers (Protective Coverings)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategies
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification Logic: What Exactly is a "Dust Mask"?
A "dust mask" is a broad term in international trade. It generally refers to protective equipment designed to prevent the inhalation of dust, particulates, or other airborne contaminants. However, the material composition and form factor determine the HS Code, leading to drastically different tax liabilities.
In customs declarations, these items are typically categorized into two main groups: 1. Rubber/Plastic Elastomeric Masks: Made from silicone, rubber, or hard plastics (often reusable or disposable molded types). 2. Non-Woven Fabric Masks: Made from melt-blown fabric, polypropylene, or textile layers (often disposable folding types or industrial protective covers).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the item is made of rubber, latex, or thermoplastic elastomers β It falls under Chapter 40 (Rubber & Articles Thereof).
- If the item is made of non-woven fabrics, textiles, or fused fibers β It falls under Chapter 56 (Wadding, Felt & Nonwovens; Special Yarns; Twine & Cordage & Articles Thereof).
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
The following table reflects the four specific classifications derived from the provided data for "Dust Masks," along with their summary logic and total tax rates.
| HS Code | Product Description & Logic Summary | Material/Form Factor | Total Tax Rate* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4016.99.05.00 | Rubber/Plastic Household/Other Items: Classified as other vulcanized rubber/plastic articles, typically fitting household or general protective use cases. | Rubber or Plastic (Vulcanized Elastomer) | 20.9% |
| 5603.11.00.70 | Non-Woven Protective Covering: Classified as a non-woven product application, serving as a protective covering/component for parts or general protection. | Non-Woven Fabric / Fibers | 35.0% |
| 4016.99.60.50 | Protective Article (Fallback Category): Classified as a protective article made of rubber/plastic, falling under general "other items" in the rubber chapter. | Rubber or Plastic (General Protective) | 37.5% |
| 5603.12.00.70 | Non-Woven Industrial/Retail Covering: Classified as industrial or retail protective covering made from non-woven or textile-like materials. | Non-Woven Fabric / Textile-like Material | 35.0% |
* Note on Tax Rates: These totals include Base Tariff, Section 301 Additional Tariffs, and Section 122 Tariffs (as per provided data).
π° Part 3: Detailed Tariff Rate Analysis (Including Surcharges)
β Context: Based on provided data, the tax structure includes Base Tariffs, Additional Surcharges (likely Section 301), and Section 122 Tariffs (likely targeting specific Chinese origins or sectors).
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Implied by the specific 122ζ‘ζ¬Ύ/Section 122 mention in data)
π― 1. 4016.99.05.00 β Rubber/Plastic Dust Mask (Household/General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.4% |
| Additional Surcharge | +7.5% (Section 301 or similar) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific import duty) |
| Total Tax Rate | 20.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 20.9% |
| Legal Basis | Rubber Chapter (40) β Other Vulcanized Rubber Articles |
π Explanation:
- This is the most cost-effective classification among the rubber/plastic options.
- Suitable for silicone respirators, rubber face shields, or molded plastic dust masks.
- Critical: Must be clearly identified as "Vulcanized Rubber" or "Thermoplastic" in the description.
π― 2. 5603.11.00.70 β Non-Woven Protective Cover (Light Weight)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| Legal Basis | Non-Wovens Chapter (56) β Gsm < 70g/mΒ² (Typical for light masks) |
π Explanation:
- Despite a 0% base tariff, the high additional surcharge (25%) makes the total rate significantly higher than rubber masks.
- Suitable for disposable surgical-style dust masks, lightweight polypropylene masks, or non-woven face coverings.
- Risk: High sensitivity to origin verification; strict "de minimis" exclusions may apply.
π― 3. 5603.12.00.70 β Non-Woven Industrial/Protective Cover
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| Legal Basis | Non-Wovens Chapter (56) β Gsm 70-150g/mΒ² (Typical for industrial masks) |
π Explanation:
- Identical tax structure to5603.11.00.70.
- Suitable for industrial dust masks, heavier-duty non-woven face shields, or multi-layer protective covers.
- Distinction: The difference between5603.11and5603.12often lies in the weight (GSM) of the non-woven fabric.
π― 4. 4016.99.60.50 β Rubber/Plastic Protective Article (General Fallback)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 2.5% |
| Additional Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 37.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 37.5% |
| Legal Basis | Rubber Chapter (40) β Other Rubber Articles (Catch-all) |
π Explanation:
- This is the highest tax rate in the provided data.
- Use this code only if the specific rubber/plastic item does not fit into4016.99.05.00.
- Risk: Customs may view this as a "catch-all" and scrutinize the classification, leading to delays. Avoid if possible.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Have)
| Document | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ Mandatory | Must specify Material Composition (e.g., "100% Silicone" vs. "Polypropylene Non-Woven") and GSM (for non-wovens). |
| Product Photos | βοΈ Mandatory | Clear images showing the mask structure, strap type, and filter layer (if any). |
| Commercial Invoice | βοΈ Mandatory | Must clearly state: "Dust Mask made of [Material]," not just "Mask." |
| Packing List | βοΈ Mandatory | Detail units per carton; avoid mixing rubber and non-woven items in one shipment unless declared separately. |
| Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ Recommended | To verify origin and apply any potential exemptions (if applicable). |
| Test Reports | βοΈ Recommended | ASTM F2100 (for medical/disposable) or NIOSH standards (for respirators) to prove intended use. |
β 2. Classification Strategy & Pitfalls (Crucial!)
π₯ Rule of Thumb:
"Material Determines Code, Not Just Name!"
Don't just declare "Dust Mask." Declare "Silicone Respirator Mask" or "Non-Woven Protective Face Cover."
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Why? | Pitfall to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone/Latex Reusable Mask | 4016.99.05.00 |
Rubber/Plastic Chapter; lower total tax (20.9%). | Don't use 4016.99.60.50 (37.5%) unless necessary. |
| Disposable PP Non-Woven Mask | 5603.11.00.70 or 5603.12.00.70 |
Non-Woven Chapter; base 0% but high surcharge. | Ensure GSM matches the subheading (11 vs 12). |
| Hybrid Mask (e.g., Plastic Frame + Non-Woven Filter) | Consult Expert | Complex classification; may lean towards rubber or textile depending on essential character. | Do NOT split components unless they are shipped separately. |
| Industrial Full-Face Shield | 4016.99.05.00 |
Likely considered rubber/plastic protective gear. | Misclassifying as "Part of Machinery" is a high-risk error. |
β 3. Special Considerations for "Section 122" Tariffs
β οΈ Warning: The data indicates a 10% Section 122 Tariff for all listed codes. This suggests the products are likely subject to specific targeted tariffs (possibly related to China-origin protective equipment or specific trade remedies).
- Verify Eligibility: Check if your product qualifies for any Exclusions under Section 122 or Section 301.
- Country of Origin: If the mask is manufactured in Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, these additional tariffs may not apply, significantly reducing costs.
- De Minimis: Note that many of these codes do not qualify for de minimis (Section 321) exemptions due to the high tariff rates and origin rules.
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026 Outlook)
| Market | Typical HS Code | Estimated Tax (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4016.99.05.00 / 5603.11.00.70 |
20.9% β 37.5% | High additional tariffs; strict material verification. |
| π¨π³ China | 6307.90.00.00 |
~5-9% | Lower base tariffs for general protective textiles. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3926.90.97 / 6307.90 |
0-4% | Often lower taxes for non-wovens; CE marking required. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3926.90.97 |
0-4% | Post-Brexit rules apply; check UK Global Tariff. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3926.90.97 |
5% | Moderate tariffs; no major additional surcharges like US. |
π Strategic Insight:
- The US market is significantly more expensive for dust masks due to additional tariffs.
- Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., sourcing from SE Asia) if exporting to the US to mitigate tariff impacts.
π Part 6: Common Errors & How to Avoid Them
β Error 1: Declaring "Dust Mask" without specifying material.
π Result: Customs will assign the highest default rate or request clarification, causing delays.
β
Fix: Always specify "Silicone," "Polypropylene Non-Woven," or "PVC."
β Error 2: Using 4016.99.60.50 (37.5%) for a standard silicone mask.
π Result: Overpaying 16.6% in taxes.
β
Fix: Use 4016.99.05.00 (20.9%) for standard vulcanized rubber/plastic masks.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 122 Tariffs.
π Result: Unexpected duty charges at customs.
β
Fix: Check if your product is exempt from Section 122 based on specific HTS subheadings or origin rules.
π― Part 7: Conclusion & Action Plan
π― Key Takeaway:
"Material is King, Origin is Queen!"
- Rubber/Plastic Masks: Aim for4016.99.05.00(20.9%).
- Non-Woven Masks: Expect 35.0% due to surcharges, but base is 0%.
- Avoid4016.99.60.50unless absolutely necessary.
π£ Immediate Actions:
1. Identify Material: Is it rubber, plastic, or non-woven?
2. Check Origin: Is it made in China? If so, prepare for 10% Section 122 + 301 surcharges.
3. Document Everything: Ensure your invoice and spec sheets match the HS Code exactly.
4. Consult a Broker: For hybrid products, seek a pre-classification ruling.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Matters: Optimize Your Supply Chain, Minimize Your Tax!
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.