Grouting Gun
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8479100040 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3214100010 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3214100090 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926901000 | 20.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926100000 | 15.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π« Grouting Gun (Sealant & Construction Tools)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown | Professionalιε
³ Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Grouting Gun"?
The term "Grouting Gun" is ambiguous in international trade and can refer to two completely different types of equipment depending on its function and mechanism. Misclassification leads to severe tax penalties or customs delays.
In the provided data, we identify two distinct categories:
- Mechanical/Construction Equipment: A powered or manual device used for concrete joint filling/planning. This is heavy-duty industrial machinery.
- Key Feature: Mechanism for concrete/road leveling, high pressure, large capacity.
- Handheld Sealant Tools: A manual or semi-automatic cartridge gun used for applying sealants, caulking, or putty (fluid/paste).
- Key Feature: AppliesθηΆ (paste) or fluid sealants, typically handheld, similar to a caulk gun.
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point: - If it is a motorized/concrete-specific machine forηΌιε€η (joint treatment) β It is Machinery. - If it is a manual tool applying sealant/paste β It is Chemical/Tool/Plastic Product depending on material and specific use.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authorityε―Ήη §)
Based on the <DATA>, here are the four possible classifications for "Grouting Gun" variants:
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
8479.10.00.40 |
Grouting Machine (Mechanical): Used for concrete joint treatment, function consistent with concrete leveling/paving machinery. | Industrial concrete work, road construction, large-scale gap filling. | Machinery: Specifically designed for construction mechanics, not simple hand tools. |
3214.10.00.10 |
Sealant Pen (Fluid/Paste): Belongs to the category of Sealants/Putty. Used for fluid or paste-based gap filling. | Artistic grouting, precision sealant application, fluid putties. | Chemical Product: Classified by the substance being applied (sealant/putty), not just the tool. |
3214.10.00.90 |
Sealant Pen (Repair/Filler): Belongs to repair/filler tools, consistent with painter's fillers. | General repair, painter's putty application, general gap filling with paste. | Chemical Product: Similar to above, focuses on the filler/repair nature of the material applied. |
3926.90.10.00 |
Sealant Gun (Plastic): Inferred material is Plastic. Classified as "Other articles of plastics" - writing/coating tools. | Standard manual caulk guns made primarily of plastic. | Plastic Article: Focuses on the material (plastic) and function (coating tool). |
3926.10.00.00 |
Sealant Gun (Plastic - Office/School): Inferred material is Plastic, fits "Other plastic articles" for office/school supplies. | Light-duty plastic grouting/sealing tools for educational or light office use. | Plastic Article: Lower-tier plastic classification, often for less intensive industrial use. |
π Key Reminder: - Do not confuse the machine (
8479) with the hand tool (3926/3214). - If the gun applies chemical sealants (like silicone, acrylic), it may be classified under Chapter 32 (if considered part of the chemical dispensing system) or Chapter 39 (if considered a plastic tool). - The data suggests a split: Concrete/Mechanical vs. Sealant/Manual.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Additions)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Post-2025 policies (Section 301 + IEEPA)
π― 1. 8479.10.00.40 ββ Grouting Machine (Concrete/Joint Treatment)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (Trade Act Section 301) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific 122 Clause) |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8479.10.00.40 β FOOTNOTE:301 β SECTION:122 |
π Explanation:
- This is industrial machinery. Even though the base tariff is 0%, the 35% total burden is significant. - It is classified as construction/concrete machinery, which attracts higher scrutiny and surtaxes due to trade policies.
π― 2. 3214.10.00.10 & 3214.10.00.90 ββ Sealant Pens (Chemical/Paste Application)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.7% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (Trade Act Section 301) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific 122 Clause) |
| Total Tax Rate | 38.7% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3214.10.00.xx β FOOTNOTE:301 β SECTION:122 |
π Explanation:
- These are classified under Chapter 32 (Ready-made paints, varnishes, sealants, putties). - The base tariff is higher (3.7%) because sealants/putties are considered chemical products. - Total rate is 38.7%, the highest among all options.
π― 3. 3926.90.10.00 ββ Plastic Grouting Gun (Coating Tool)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.4% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% (Trade Act Section 301 - Lower Tier) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific 122 Clause) |
| Total Tax Rate | 20.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 20.9% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926.90.10.00 β FOOTNOTE:301.7.5 β SECTION:122 |
π Explanation:
- This is a plastic tool. The Section 301 surtax is reduced to 7.5% (compared to 25% for machinery/chemicals). - Total rate is 20.9%, making it a cost-effective option if the product is clearly a plastic hand tool.
π― 4. 3926.10.00.00 ββ Plastic Grouting Gun (Office/School Supply)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | 0.0% (Trade Act Section 301 - Exempt/Low Tier) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific 122 Clause) |
| Total Tax Rate | 15.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 15.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926.10.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:301.EXEMPT β SECTION:122 |
π Explanation:
- This is the lowest total tax rate at 15.3%. - Caution: This classification requires the product to be strictly defined as an office/school supply item. If used industrially, customs may reclassify it to3926.90(20.9%) or3214(38.7%).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Detail: Is it motorized (concrete) or manual (sealant)? Material? Capacity? |
| β Photos (Clear) | βοΈ | Show the entire unit, labels, and any power sources. Distinguish between a "gun" and a "machine". |
| β Bill of Lading | βοΈ | Ensure the description matches the HS Code exactly. |
| β Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Grouting Gun" or "Sealant Applicator". Avoid vague terms like "Tool". |
| β Material Composition | βοΈ | If claiming 3926, provide proof it is Plastic (e.g., plastic handle, plastic body). |
| β Use Case Description | βοΈ | Explain if it's for concrete (Industrial) or caulking/sealant (General/Office). |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Machine vs. Gun: Function Defines Code. Plastic vs. Chemical: Material Defines Cost."
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Approach | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Concrete Grouting Machine | 8479.10.00.40 |
Classify as 3926 (Plastic Tool) |
Penalty: Re-classified, back taxes (35% vs 20.9%), fines. |
| Manual Sealant/Caulk Gun (Plastic) | 3926.90.10.00 or 3926.10.00.00 |
Classify as 3214 (Chemical) |
Overpayment: Pay 38.7% instead of 20.9% or 15.3%. |
| Sealant Pen applying Paste | 3214.10.00.10 / .90 |
Classify as 3926 |
Risk: If the pen is integral to the chemical application system, it may stay in Ch 32. |
| Office-Supply Style Plastic Gun | 3926.10.00.00 |
Classify as 3926.90 |
Savings: 15.3% vs 20.9%. Ensure it's marketed as office/light-duty. |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Tools (Plastic body, metal piston) | Still likely 3926 if plastic is the main material. Provide material breakdown. |
| Motorized Sealant Guns | If it has a battery/motor, it might be classified as Machinery (8479) or Electrical Apparatus. Check with customs broker. |
| OEM Custom Designs | Provide design specs. If it looks like a standard caulk gun, 3926 is safer. If it looks like a specialized industrial injector, 8479 or 3214 may apply. |
| "122 Clause" Tariff | All items listed above are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff. This is non-negotiable for Chinese origin goods. Factor this into pricing. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.10.00.00 (Lowest) |
15.3% | None required for basic plastic tool | Highest risk of audit for "Grouting Gun" ambiguity. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 8479.10.00.40 (Machine) |
35.0% | None | For heavy-duty concrete equipment. |
| π¨π³ China | 3926.90.90.00 (Export) |
Varies | CCC (if electrical) | Export duties may apply depending on final destination. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3926.90.97 |
0% - 4.7% | CE, RoHS | No Section 301/122 surtaxes. Much cheaper for EU market. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3926.90.90 |
0% - 4.5% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Conclusion: - USA has the highest barrier due to Section 301 + 122 tariffs. - EU/UK are significantly more cost-effective for plastic grouting guns (no extra surtaxes). - Strategy: If selling to the US, consider re-classifying as
3926.10.00.00(15.3%) if the product fits the "office/school/light-duty" description. If it's truly industrial, you must pay the 35% or 38.7%.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Calling all "Grouting Guns" 3926 (Plastic Tool).
π Consequence: If the tool is a motorized concrete injector, it will be reclassified to 8479 (35%). You save nothing, and face penalties.
β Error 2: Calling a sealant cartridge a Tool.
π Consequence: Sealants (pastes/fluids) are chemicals (3214). Classifying them as tools (3926) is fraud. Tax rate jumps from 15.3% to 38.7%.
β Error 3: Ignoring the 122 Clause (10%). π Consequence: Underquoting duties. The 10% is applied on top of all other taxes.
β Error 4: Vague Description "Grouting Gun". π Consequence: Customs holds the shipment for "Insufficient Information". Delays of 1-4 weeks.
β Correct Practice:
"Plastic Manual Sealant Applicator Gun, Office Grade, Model XYZ" β
3926.10.00.00(15.3%)
"Heavy-Duty Motorized Concrete Joint Filling Machine" β8479.10.00.40(35.0%)
"Sealant Pen for Fluid Putty Application" β3214.10.00.10(38.7%)
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Savings!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Machine is 35%, Chemical is 38.7%, Plastic is 20.9%, Office Plastic is 15.3%!"
πΉ "Define Function, Check Material, Avoid 122 Surprise!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is a manual plastic gun for sealants, argue for 3926.10.00.00 (15.3%) by emphasizing its use in office/school/light maintenance settings. This saves you 20-23% in taxes compared to industrial classifications.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm with your broker: "Is my grouting gun a 'tool' or a 'machine'?"
πΈ Provide clear photos and material specs.
π Clear customs faster, pay less tax, maximize profit!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every percentage point of tax saved 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.