Film Protective Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3919905060 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920991000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920992000 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π‘οΈ Screen Protective Films (Screen Protectors)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Screen Protective Film"?
Screen protective films are critical accessories for electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, monitors, etc.), designed to protect screens from scratches, impacts, and fingerprints. In international trade, they are primarily classified as plastic articles.
The classification depends heavily on two key factors: 1. Self-Adhesive Nature: Is it ready to stick (self-adhesive) or does it require adhesive application? 2. Material Composition: Typically PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), or other plastics.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the film is self-adhesive (ready to apply) β It falls under Chapter 3919 (Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, flat shapes...).
- If it is non-adhesive or requires separate adhesive application β It may fall under Chapter 3920 (Other plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip, of plastics).
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (Latest 2026 Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the specific HS Codes and their rationales for Screen Protective Films:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
3919.90.50.60 |
Plastic film, self-adhesive, other specified | General screen protectors, self-adhesive PET/TPU films | β Self-adhesive, "Other" category for flat shapes |
3919.90.50.40 |
Plastic film, self-adhesive, other specified | Electronics screen protectors, PET/TPU self-adhesive films | β Self-adhesive, Matches "self-adhesive plastic films" criteria |
3920.99.10.00 |
Plastic plates, sheets, film, etc. | Non-self-adhesive or generic plastic films (e.g., raw PET/TPU rolls) | β Non-self-adhesive, fits "Other plastic plates/sheets" |
3920.99.20.00 |
Plastic plates, sheets, film, etc. | Non-self-adhesive plastic films, generic plastic attributes | β Non-self-adhesive, fits "Other plastic plates/sheets" |
π Important Note:
- Self-adhesive films (3919.90.xx.xx) are generally preferred for finished screen protectors because they come ready to use.
- Non-self-adhesive films (3920.99.xx.xx) are often raw materials or require additional processing/adhesive layers.
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring a self-adhesive film as non-self-adhesive can lead to customs audits and potential penalties.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 onwards (includes subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3919.90.50.60 & 3919.90.50.40 ββ Self-Adhesive Plastic Films
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3919.90.50.60/40 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- Base Tariff (5.8%): Standard duty for self-adhesive plastic films under Chapter 3919.
- USITC Surtax (25%): Applied under Section 301 of the Trade Act for products from China.
- IEEPA Surtax (10%): Additional surcharge under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, specifically targeting Chinese-origin goods (Section 122 clause).
- Total 40.8%: This is a high tariff rate, significantly impacting profit margins. It must be factored into pricing strategies.
π― 2. 3920.99.10.00 ββ Other Plastic Plates, Sheets, Film
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3920.99.10.00 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- Base Tariff (6.0%): Slightly higher base rate than self-adhesive films.
- Surtaxes: Same 25% + 10% surcharges apply.
- Total 41.0%: The highest rate among the listed options. Suitable only for non-self-adhesive raw films.
π― 3. 3920.99.20.00 ββ Other Plastic Plates, Sheets, Film
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3920.99.20.00 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- Base Tariff (4.2%): Lower base rate, but still subject to full surcharges.
- Total 39.2%: The lowest total rate among the options, but only applicable if the film is non-self-adhesive and fits this specific subheading.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Proven Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Missing Items = Delays)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail material (PET/TPU), thickness, dimensions, and adhesive type. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing the film, packaging, and any labels indicating "Self-Adhesive." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Screen Protective Film" and HS Code. Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Sheet." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail contents per package to avoid discrepancies. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for proving origin (China) to apply correct surcharges. |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | Optional but recommended for quality verification (e.g., optical clarity, adhesion strength). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Self-Adhesive is Key, HS Code Dictates Duty, Don't Split Declarations!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Finished Screen Protector (with adhesive) | 3919.90.50.60 or 3919.90.50.40 |
Misdeclaring as 3920 β Higher risk of audit |
| Raw Plastic Film Roll (no adhesive) | 3920.99.10.00 or 3920.99.20.00 |
Misdeclaring as self-adhesive β Customs rejection |
| Screen Protector + Cleaning Cloth | Declare Together under primary HS Code | Split declaration β Higher overall duty cost |
| Generic Plastic Film | 3920.99.20.00 |
Using 3919 β False declaration |
β 3. Special Situation Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Films | Provide customer order + design specs to prove intended use. |
| Multi-Layer Films | Clearly describe all layers (e.g., PET + TPU + Adhesive) in specifications. |
| Smartphone vs. Tablet | Same HS Code applies, but ensure dimensions match product description. |
| High-Value Films (e.g., Privacy, Anti-Glare) | No special tariff benefits; still subject to 39.2%-41.0%. |
π Part 5: Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3919.90.50.60 / 3919.90.50.40 |
40.8% | No special certs | High surcharges (25%+10%) |
| π¨π³ China | 3919.90.50.60 |
~5-7% | CCC (if applicable) | No surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3919.90.90 |
4.0% | CE + REACH | No surcharges |
| π¬π§ UK | 3919.90.90 |
4.0% | UKCA + REACH | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3919.90.90 |
5.0% | No special certs | Low tariff |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for screen protective films from China due to Section 301 and IEEPA surcharges.
- Total duty burden in the US is ~40.8%, which is significantly higher than other major markets.
- Alternative Supply Chains: Consider sourcing from Vietnam, Thailand, or India to mitigate US surcharges (if applicable).
π Part 6: Common Errors & Pitfall Avoidance (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring self-adhesive film as non-adhesive (3920)
π Consequence: Customs audit, potential fines for misdeclaration.
β Error 2: Not specifying "Self-Adhesive" in the description
π Consequence: Customs may classify under a higher duty or request additional documentation.
β Error 3: Ignoring the 122 Clause IEEPA Surcharge
π Consequence: Underpaying duties by 10% β Back taxes + penalties.
β Error 4: Using vague terms like "Plastic Sheet"
π Consequence: Customs discretion may lead to unfavorable classification.
β Correct Practice:
"Screen Protective Film, Self-Adhesive, PET Material, 0.3mm Thickness, for Smartphones, Model XYZ, Origin: China"
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Efficiency!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Self-Adhesive is 3919, Non-Adhesive is 3920. US Duty is 40.8%, Plan Ahead or Lose!"
πΉ "HS Code Defines Tax, 10% IEEPA is Key, Declare Correctly, Avoid Fees!"
π Pro Tip:
If your screen protective films are originating from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may qualify for IEEPA Exemptions, reducing the total duty to 0%~5%.
Recommend pre-clearance rulings (Advance Ruling) to mitigate risks.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide product specs + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Let your screen protective films clear smoothly, export efficiently, and maximize profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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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.