Glitter
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926903500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926903300 | 16.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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β¨ Glitter, Spangles & Sequins (The Shiny Stuff)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Glitter"?
In international trade, "Glitter" is not just a single item. It refers to small, shiny particles or ornaments made of plastics and other materials (headings 3901β3914). The key to correct classification lies in two specific conditions: 1. Not Strung: Are they loosely packed? 2. Not Set: Are they individually attached to a backing (like on a craft sheet) or already sewn onto fabric?
β οΈ Critical Distinction: - If they are loose beads/bugles/spangles (not strung or set) β Goes to 3926.90.35.00 (General Other Articles). - If they are specifically Handbags made of plastic/artificial materials β Goes to 3926.90.33.00. - Note: If glitter is already strung into garlands or set on cards, it may fall under different headings (e.g., 9505 for festive articles). This guide strictly covers the loose/unset category as per the provided data.
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the two relevant HS Codes for "Glitter" items:
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Tariff Rate (Total) |
|---|---|---|---|
3926.90.35.00 |
Other articles of plastics... Beads, bugles, and spangles, not strung and not set; articles thereof, not elsewhere specified or included: Other | Loose glitter, sequins, spangles, decorative plastic beads NOT attached to bags or clothing. | 14.0% |
3926.90.33.00 |
Other articles of plastics... Handbags | Plastic or artificial material handbags. Note: If glitter is merely a decorative element on a plastic handbag, the entire item may be classified by its primary function (Handbag). | 6.5% |
π Key Reminder: - Loose Glitter/Sequins: If you are importing bulk loose glitter or sequins for crafts, they fall under 3926.90.35.00. - Plastic Handbags: If the "glitter" product is actually a finished handbag made of plastic/synthetic leather, it falls under 3926.90.33.00. - Do Not Mix: Do not classify a glittery handbag as "loose glitter" just because it is shiny. Function determines classification.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Tax Terms)
β Applicable Country: United States (US) β Origin: China (CN) (Based on the provided tax details implying US-China trade dynamics) β Effective Time: Current 2026 Schedule
π― 1. 3926.90.35.00 ββ Loose Glitter, Spangles, Beads (Not Strung/Set)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301 / USITC) | +7.5% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 14.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 14.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Generally, goods from China subject to 301 tariffs do not qualify for de minimis exemption under current rules for Section 301 goods, though this depends on the specific 8-digit subheading and current CBP rulings. Given the high total tax, it is treated as a commercial entry.) |
| Legal Basis | USITC HTSUS 3926.90.35.00 + Additional Duties List 1 (or equivalent current list) |
π Explanation: - Base 6.5%: The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for other plastic articles. - Additional 7.5%: This is the Section 301 additional duty applicable to many Chinese plastic goods. - Total 14.0%: This is the effective landed cost impact. It is moderate compared to electronics, but still significant for low-margin craft supplies.
π― 2. 3926.90.33.00 ββ Plastic/Artificial Material Handbags
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301 / USITC) | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 6.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 6.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Subject to standard de minimis limits, but Section 301 does not apply here.) |
| Legal Basis | USITC HTSUS 3926.90.33.00 |
π Explanation: - Base 6.5%: Standard MFN rate for handbags of plastics. - Additional 0.0%: Handbags of plastics are exempt from the highest tier of Section 301 additional duties in this specific dataset. - Savings: This is a 7.5% lower rate than loose glitter/spangles.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: Material (e.g., PET plastic, PVC), Form (Loose, not strung), Use (Craft decoration). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Must show items are not strung and not set on backing. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Plastic Spangles, Not Strung" or "Plastic Handbags". Do not use vague terms like "Decorations". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail net/gross weight. |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm if it contains lead/cadmium (if applicable for consumer goods). |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Rules of Thumb)
π₯ βShape and Attachment Matter! Loose = 14%, Handbag = 6.5%!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Loose Glitter/Sequins in a box | 3926.90.35.00 (14%) |
Low. Straightforward. |
| Glitter on a Card (Set) | β Incorrect under this data. Likely 9505 (Festive) or 4911 (Pictures). | High. Misclassification penalty. |
| Plastic Handbag with Glitter Design | 3926.90.33.00 (6.5%) |
Medium. Ensure it is primarily a bag. |
| String of Sequins (Garland) | β Incorrect under this data. Likely 9505. | High. |
| Glitter mixed with beads | 3926.90.35.00 |
Medium. Classify by the dominant component or as "Other". |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipment | If importing both loose glitter and plastic handbags, separate the entries or declare separately on the line items to apply the correct tax rate for each. |
| "Glitter" is a Chemical Dye? | If itβs not plastic articles but rather a chemical glitter pigment, it may fall under 3203.00 or similar. Ensure material is Plastic/Synthetic to use 3926. |
| Small Parcel (De Minimis) | If shipping directly to consumers via e-commerce, check current CBP enforcement on Section 301 goods under Section 321 (de minimis). Currently, high scrutiny exists. Commercial clearance is safer for large volumes. |
π Part 5: Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Snapshot)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Total Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.35.00 |
14.0% | Section 301 applies. High cost for loose glitter. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.33.00 |
6.5% | Handbags benefit from lower/additional duty exemptions. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3926.90.97 | ~4-5% | No Section 301. Lower burden. |
| π¨π³ China (Import) | 3926.90.90 | ~6% | General tariff. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3926.90.97 | ~4-5% | Post-Brexit tariff structure. |
π Conclusion: - The US market penalizes loose plastic glitter/spangles more heavily (14%) than plastic handbags (6.5%). - If you are selling finished plastic handbags with glitter, you save money on duty compared to selling bulk glitter.
π Part 6: Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying "Glittery Handbags" as "Loose Glitter" (3926.90.35.00)
π Result: You pay 14% instead of 6.5%. Overpayment of 7.5% on CIF value.
β Mistake 2: Classifying "Loose Glitter" as "Handbags" (3926.90.33.00)
π Result: Customs Rejection/Penalty. Loose glitter is not a handbag. Misclassification leads to fines and delays.
β Mistake 3: Describing items vaguely as "Craft Supplies" π Result: Customs cannot determine if it is strung, set, or loose. Holds the shipment for more info.
β Mistake 4: Ignoring "Not Strung/Not Set" Condition π Result: If items are pre-strung, they may not fit 3926.90.35.00. Check Chapter 95 (Toys/Festive) or 61/62 (Clothing accessories).
β Correct Practice:
For Loose Glitter: "Plastic Sequins, 2mm, Gold, Not Strung, Not Set, for Craft Use." For Handbags: "Womenβs Handbag, PVC Material, Glitter Finish, With Handle and Zipper Closure."
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Precise Classification, Maximize Profit!
π― Remember the Golden Rule:
πΉ "Loose Spangles = 14% (High Tax)"
πΉ "Plastic Handbags = 6.5% (Low Tax)"
πΉ "Strung/Setting? Check Other Chapters!"
π Pro Tip: If you are a manufacturer, consider if your product can be classified as a handbag (6.5%) rather than loose spangles (14%) if the design allows. However, honesty is paramount. Misclassification is fraud.
π£ Action Item:
π Consult a Customs Broker with photos of your product. π Apply for a Binding Ruling if your volume is high and classification is ambiguous. πΌ Accurate Description Saves Money: Don't let vague terms cost you 7.5% in duties!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Correct Classification! πΌ Every Percent of Duty Counts!
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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.