Hard Protein Casing Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3502190000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 0504000040 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3504001000 | 22.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 0504000020 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π₯© Hard Protein Casing Film (Hard Protein Casing)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Compliance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know "Hard Protein Casing Film"?
Hard protein casing film is a high-performance edible casing derived from protein materials (such as collagen, fish skin, or vegetable-based proteins), primarily used in the sausage manufacturing industry. In international trade, it is strictly categorized based on its raw material source, physical form (film vs. thread), and processing method.
Two Main Categories: * Protein Thread/Yarn (Proteinous Threads): Fibrous form, often used as raw material for twisting into casings. * Protein Film/Membrane (Proteinous Membranes): Flat, sheet-like form, ready for stuffing or processing into sausage casings.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is in the form of threads or filaments β Classified under 3502.19.00.00
- If the product is in the form of films or membranes, whether for sausage use or derived from protein derivatives β Classified under 0504.00.00.40, 0504.00.00.20, or 3504.00.10.00
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application/Material | Key Identifier |
|---|---|---|---|
3502.19.00.00 |
Hard protein casing threads, protein material, thread form | Protein-based casings in thread form | 𧡠Thread/Yarn Form |
0504.00.00.40 |
Casing film, for sausage use, animal tissue material | Sausage casings derived from animal tissues | π₯© Sausage Use + Animal Tissue |
0504.00.00.20 |
Casing film, for sausage use, prepared from animal intestines | Casings prepared from animal intestines | π Animal Intestine Preparation |
3504.00.10.00 |
Casing film, protein derivative material, film form | Casings made from protein derivatives (non-animal tissue direct) | π§ͺ Protein Derivative/Film |
π Important Reminder:
- Form Matters: "Thread" vs. "Film" is the primary classifier.
- Material Matters: Direct animal tissue/intestine vs. processed protein derivatives.
- Use Matters: Explicit "sausage casing" designation can trigger specific subheadings under 0504.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From Nov 10, 2025 (for subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3502.19.00.00 ββ Hard Protein Casing Threads (Protein Material, Thread Form)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | $0.097/kg (Specific Duty: 9.7Β’/kg) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% (Ad Valorem) |
| Total Tax Burden | $0.097/kg + 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | Specific Duty ($0.097/kg) + Ad Valorem (17.5% of CIF Value) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High tariff rate triggers scrutiny) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3502.19.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:301:7.5% β FOOTNOTE:122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This code carries a specific duty ($0.097 per kg) plus ad valorem duties.
- The 17.5% additional rate is composed of 7.5% (Section 301) + 10% (Section 122).
- Cost Impact: For heavy shipments, the specific duty adds significant cost; for light/value-heavy shipments, the 17.5% ad valorem dominates.
π― 2. 0504.00.00.40 ββ Casing Film (Sausage Use, Animal Tissue Material)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Tax Burden | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:0504.00.00.40 β FOOTNOTE:301:7.5% β FOOTNOTE:122:10% |
π Explanation:
- No base tariff, but subject to 17.5% total additional duties.
- Applies when the film is made directly from animal tissue and explicitly for sausage use.
π― 3. 0504.00.00.20 ββ Casing Film (Sausage Use, Animal Intestine Prepared)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Tax Burden | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:0504.00.00.20 β FOOTNOTE:301:7.5% β FOOTNOTE:122:10% |
π Explanation:
- Same tariff structure as0504.00.00.40.
- Applies specifically to casings prepared from animal intestines.
π― 4. 3504.00.10.00 ββ Casing Film (Protein Derivative Material, Film Form)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Tax Burden | 22.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3504.00.10.00 β FOOTNOTE:301:7.5% β FOOTNOTE:122:10% |
π Explanation:
- Highest ad valorem rate (22.5%) among the film categories.
- Applies to protein derivative films that are not directly classified under animal tissue/intestine headings.
- 5% base duty + 17.5% additional duties = 22.5% Total.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Mandatory | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: Protein source (collagen/fish/vegetable), form (thread/film), thickness, usage |
| β Material Composition Analysis | βοΈ | Detailed breakdown of protein content, additives, and processing method |
| β Product Photos (Clear Labeling) | βοΈ | Show physical form (threads vs. rolls/films), packaging, and labeling |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Hard Protein Casing" and specify "Film" or "Thread" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail gross/net weight, quantity, and dimensions |
| β Origin Certificate (CO) | βοΈ | If applicable for other markets, but for US, origin determines Section 301/122 applicability |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Form Defines Code, Material Dictates Rate, Declare Precisely!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Casings in Thread Form | 3502.19.00.00 |
Declaring as "Film" β Misclassification risk |
| Sausage Casings from Animal Intestines | 0504.00.00.20 |
Declaring as "Protein Derivative" β 22.5% vs 17.5% |
| Sausage Casings from Animal Tissue | 0504.00.00.40 |
Declaring as "Protein Derivative" β 22.5% vs 17.5% |
| Protein-Based Films (Non-Animal Tissue) | 3504.00.10.00 |
Declaring as "Animal Tissue" β Incorrect origin material |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Products (Thread + Film) | Declare separately based on form. Do not mix codes in one line item without clear breakdown. |
| OEM Custom Casings | Provide customer specifications and design drawings to confirm "Sausage Use" and material type. |
| Protein Derivatives vs. Animal Tissue | This is the most common point of confusion. Provide lab reports to prove if itβs direct tissue or processed derivative. |
| Small Sample Shipments | Even for samples, if classified under these codes, De Minimis exemption does NOT apply due to high tariff rates. Plan for full duty payment. |
π 5. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | Varies by form/material | 17.5% - 22.5% + Specific Duty (if thread) | FDA Registration, Labeling Compliance | High tariff burden; ensure precise classification |
| π¨π³ China | Varies | 0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable), Food Safety Certs | Lower tariffs, focus on food safety compliance |
| πͺπΊ EU | Varies | 0% - 6.5% | EFSA Approval, Food Contact Material Compliance | Strict food safety regulations |
| π¦πΊ Australia | Varies | 5% - 15% | FSANZ Compliance | Moderate tariffs, strong food safety checks |
| π―π΅ Japan | Varies | 0% - 5% | JFS Standards, Food Sanitation Act | Low tariffs, high inspection standards |
π Conclusion:
- USA has the highest tariff burden for protein casings due to Section 301 and Section 122 duties.
- Classification precision is critical to avoid overpayment (22.5% vs 17.5%) or underpayment (misclassification penalties).
- China-origin goods face additional surcharges in the US market.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood-Teaching Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Thread casings as Film
π Consequence: Incorrect HS Code β Potential penalty or delayed clearance.
π Correct: 3502.19.00.00 for threads, 0504/3504 for films.
β Mistake 2: Not specifying "Sausage Use" for 0504 codes
π Consequence: May be misclassified under general protein products with different rates.
π Correct: Explicitly state "For Sausage Casing Use" in invoice and description.
β Mistake 3: Confusing Animal Tissue vs. Protein Derivative
π Consequence: 0504 codes (17.5%) vs. 3504 code (22.5%). Misclassification leads to 5% differential overpayment or underpayment penalties.
π Correct: Provide material analysis to confirm source.
β Mistake 4: Assuming De Minimis Exemption applies
π Consequence: Since tariffs are high (>8%), De Minimis does NOT apply for these HS codes.
π Correct: Budget for full duty payment regardless of shipment size.
β Correct Practice:
"Hard Protein Sausage Casing Film, Collagen-Based, 12mm Width, Clear, For Sausage Manufacturing, FDA Compliant, Model XYZ"
π― 7. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Cost Optimization, Smooth Clearance!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Thread vs. Film, Animal vs. Derivative, Declare Precisely to Save Money!"
πΉ "US Tariffs are High, 17.5% to 22.5%, Misclassification is Costly!"
π Pro Tip:
If your protein casings are originated from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may exempt from IEEPA/Section 301 duties, reducing the total rate to Base Rate Only.
Recommend applying for Advance Ruling before shipment to confirm the exact HS Code and duty rate.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Let your protein casings clear smoothly, efficiently, and profitably!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent of your cost deserves precise calculation!
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.