Fruit Skewers
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4421915000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4421916000 | 22.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926901000 | 20.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926209050 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7323999080 | 88.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7323999030 | 88.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 200899 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 160410 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π‘ Fruit Skewers (Fresh/Prepared)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Selling Fresh Fruit or a Processed Snack?
"Fruit Skewers" is a deceptive term in international trade. The classification depends entirely on processing status, packaging, and intent for consumption. It is not a single HS code but a spectrum ranging from fresh agricultural produce to processed food items or even non-food decorative items.
Based on the provided , we analyze two distinct scenarios: 1. Prepared/Preserved Fruit Skewers: Intended for immediate consumption, often marinated, coated, or combined with other ingredients (classified under 2008.99 or 1604.10). 2. Empty Bamboo/Wooden Skewers: Used for preparing fruit (classified under 4421.91).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the skewer contains raw/fresh fruit β It may not be in the provided (usually Ch 8 or 20).
- If the skewer contains processed/preserved fruit (marinated, coated, cooked) β It falls under 2008.99 or 1604.10.
- If the product is just the stick (bamboo/wood) β It falls under 4421.91.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Matrix (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Processing Level | Tax Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2008.99 |
Other prepared or preserved fruit, not elsewhere specified, including fruit skewers with or without added sugar/sweetening, intended for direct consumption. | Pre-made fruit skewers sold in supermarkets/retail, coated with honey/sugar, or pickled. | π High (Preserved/Prepared) | β Error: Failed to retrieve tax info |
1604.10 |
Preparations of fruit or nuts, including skewers, where fruit is processed (e.g., marinated, coated, combined with ingredients), intended for immediate consumption. | Gourmet fruit skewers, savory preparations, marinated fruit snacks. | π΄ Very High (Highly Processed/Prepared) | β Error: Failed to retrieve tax info |
4421.91.50.00 |
Toothpicks, skewers, candy sticks, etc., of bamboo: Toothpicks | Note: Specifically lists "Toothpicks". Skewers are often grouped here if small, but check 4421.91.60.00 for general skewers. | π’ Raw (Unprocessed Wood/Bamboo) | β 0.0% |
4421.91.60.00 |
Toothpicks, skewers, etc., of bamboo: Other | Empty bamboo/wooden skewers for consumer use (e.g., for kebabs, fruit skewers). | π’ Raw (Unprocessed Wood/Bamboo) | β 12.6% |
π Key Reminder:
- "Fruit Skewers" (Food): If you are importing the finished food product, look at 2008.99 or 1604.10. Tax info failed to retrieve in .
- "Empty Skewers" (Tool): If you are importing the wooden/bamboo sticks to assemble fruit skewers yourself, look at 4421.91.50.00 or 4421.91.60.00.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025+ (Based on current trade policies)
π― 1. 2008.99 & 1604.10 ββ Prepared/Preserved Fruit Skewers (Food)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Tax Info | Failed to retrieve tax information |
| Total Tax | Error |
| Explanation | The indicates that tax information for these specific HS codes could not be retrieved automatically. |
| Action Required | Manual Verification Needed. These codes typically attract standard MFN tariffs (varies by 8-digit subheading) plus potential Section 301 tariffs (25%) if of Chinese origin. Do not assume 0%. |
π― 2. 4421.91.50.00 ββ Bamboo Skewers (Toothpicks/Small Wares)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% |
| Retaliatory/Add-on Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Subject to value limits) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:4421.91.50.00 |
π Note:
- This code applies if the item is classified strictly as "Toothpicks" or small bamboo wares.
- Crucial: If the skewers are larger (e.g., 10cm+ for fruit), they may fall under4421.91.60.00("Other"), which has a 12.6% total tax.
π― 3. 4421.91.60.00 ββ Bamboo Skewers (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 5.1% |
| Retaliatory/Add-on Tariff | 7.5% |
| Total Tax | 12.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 12.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Subject to value limits) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:4421.91.60.00 |
π Explanation:
- This is the standard classification for empty bamboo/wooden skewers not meeting the "toothpick" definition.
- The 7.5% add-on is likely part of specific trade remedies or general S301 tariffs applied to certain wood products.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Missing Any = Delay)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Empty Bamboo Skewers" OR "Prepared Fruit Skewers". |
| β Ingredient List (for Food) | βοΈ | If importing 2008.99/1604.10, FDA compliance is critical. List all additives, sweeteners, preservatives. |
| β Photos (Packaging & Product) | βοΈ | Show if skewers are alone (food) or if fruit is included. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description must match HS code precisely. Avoid vague terms like "Crafts" for food items. |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | To determine eligibility for any exemptions or confirm Chinese origin for surcharges. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Empty Stick = Wood; Fruit Skewer = Food; Tax Differs Great!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk if Misclassified |
|---|---|---|
| Empty Bamboo Sticks | 4421.91.60.00 (12.6%) |
Misclassifying as "Food" (2008.99) may lead to FDA refusal or tax error. |
| Pre-made Fruit Skewers | 2008.99 or 1604.10 |
Misclassifying as "Wood" (4421.91) will result in FDA seizure (importing food without proper registration). |
| Toothpicks | 4421.91.50.00 (0%) |
Ensure dimensions qualify as "toothpicks/small wares" to avoid 12.6% tax. |
β 3. Special Considerations
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Food Contact | If importing pre-made fruit skewers, you MUST register with the FDA as a Foreign Supplier. Failure = Deportation. |
| Mixed Shipments | Do not mix empty skewers and fruit skewers in one line item if they have different HS codes. Declare separately. |
| "Failed to Retrieve" Codes | For 2008.99 and 1604.10, do not guess the tax rate. Use a licensed customs broker to verify the exact 8-digit rate and any Section 301 applicability, as the source did not provide it. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Duty | Certification | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4421.91.60.00 (Skewers) or 2008.99 (Food) |
12.6% (Skewers) / ? (Food) | FDA (Food), Lacey Act (Wood) | High scrutiny on food safety. |
| π¨π³ China | 4421.91 or 2008 |
Varies | N/A | Low import barriers for wood products. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4421.91 or 2008 |
0-6.5% | FSC (Wood), EU Food Standards | Strict deforestation regulations (EUDR) for wood. |
π Conclusion:
- USA: High regulatory barrier for food items (FDA). Moderate for wood items (Lacey Act).
- EU: Strict sustainability documentation for wood/bamboo (EUDR compliance required).
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood Lessons)
β Error 1: Importing pre-made fruit skewers and declaring them as "Wooden Skewers" (4421.91)
π Consequence: FDA Rejection. The product is food, not a wooden artifact. Penalty + Destruction.
β Error 2: Assuming 2008.99 has 0% tax because it's "fruit"
π Consequence: shows "Error". Actual tax may include MFN (e.g., 4-10%) + Section 301 (25%). Verify with a broker!
β Error 3: Mixing empty skewers and fruit skewers in one commercial invoice line
π Consequence: Customs will reject the entry or assign the highest-risk HS code to the entire shipment. Split the declaration.
β Error 4: Using vague descriptions like "Party Supplies"
π Consequence: Customs may misclassify as a random category, leading to audits or duty overpayment. Be specific: "Bamboo Skewers, 10cm, Food-Grade".
β Correct Practice:
For Empty Skewers: "Bamboo Skewers, Food-Grade, Unprocessed, Length 15cm, HS 4421.91.60.00"
For Prepared Skewers: "Prepared Fruit Skewers (Strawberry, Honey-Coated), Ready-to-Eat, HS 2008.99.xxxx"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Safe Clearance, Cost Efficiency!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Empty Stick = Wood (4421); Skewer with Fruit = Food (2008/1604); Check FDA Lacey Act!"
πΉ "Tax Error on Food = Deportation; Misclassifying Wood = 12.6% Surprise Tax!"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing pre-made fruit skewers, the shows "Failed to retrieve tax information" for 2008.99 and 1604.10. Do not proceed without a professional customs broker. The actual duty could be significant, and FDA compliance is non-negotiable.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker to verify the exact tax rate for
2008.99/1604.10and ensure FDA registration.
π¦ For Wooden Skewers: Confirm dimensions to ensure classification under4421.91.50.00(0%) vs.4421.91.60.00(12.6%).
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every HS Code Defines Your Cost and Compliance Risk!
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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.