High Definition Microfilm
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3920620090 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920992000 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905060 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920991000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919102055 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ High Definition Microfilm (HD Microfilm)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "HD Microfilm"?
High Definition Microfilm refers to thin plastic films (typically Polyester/PET, BOPP, or PVC-based) used for data storage, archival preservation, or optical transmission. In international trade, the classification hinges on form factor (sheet vs. roll) and material composition.
1. Continuous Rolls (Film in Rolls):
If the product is supplied in continuous rolls, intended for microfilming machines, it falls under Heading 3919 (Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls).
2. Sheets/Plates (Cut to Size):
If the product is cut into sheets or specific forms that are not continuous rolls, it falls under Heading 3920 (Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- Rolls: Go to 3919.xxxx
- Sheets/Cut Films: Go to 3920.xxxx
- Material: Must be plastic (PET/BOPP). If it contains significant other materials (e.g., heavy metallic coatings for electrical conductivity), it might shift, but standard "Microfilm" is plastic.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most likely HS Codes for High Definition Microfilm, categorized by their logical inference:
| HS Code | Product Description & Inference Logic | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
3920.62.00.90 |
High-Definition PET Film Inferred from "film morphology" and "plastic material (PET)". |
Best fit for clear, high-clarity PET sheets/films. |
3920.99.20.00 |
Other Plastic Sheets/Films Morphology: Sheet/Film. Material: Plastic (PET/BOPP). |
General category for other plastics not specified elsewhere. |
3919.90.50.60 |
Plastic Film Rolls (Fallback) Morphology: Film. Material: Plastic. |
"Catch-all" for plastic films in rolls that don't fit specific sub-categories. |
3920.99.10.00 |
Other Plastic Sheets (No Thickness Conflict) Morphology: Film. Material: Plastic. |
Standard classification for general plastic sheets. |
3919.10.20.55 |
Plastic Film Rolls (Generic) Material: Plastic/Polymer. Morphology: Flat Film. |
"Catch-all" for other plastic films in rolls. |
π Key Reminder:
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is the most common material for HD Microfilm. If it is PET, 3920.62.00.90 is the most precise fit for sheets.
- If the product is in rolls, check 3919.90.50.60 or 3919.10.20.55.
- Do not mix forms: Ensure your commercial invoice matches the form (Roll vs. Sheet) declared in the HS Code.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policies)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 (Current Trade Policy)
π― 1. 3920.62.00.90 & 3920.99.20.00 & 3920.99.10.00
(For Sheet/Cut Film Forms)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% - 6.0% (ad valorem, varies by sub-code) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% (Additional duty on Chinese goods) |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% (Additional duty on Chinese goods) |
| Total Effective Rate | 39.2% - 41.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ Total Rate |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO (Denied. Value must exceed $800 to enter duty-free, but these codes are subject to high duties). |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3920.xxxx β Section 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β Section 122: IEEPA |
π Explanation:
- Base Tax: Varies slightly (4.2% vs 6.0%) depending on the exact plastic type and thickness.
- Surcharge: The 25% Section 301 and 10% Section 122 are mandatory for Chinese-origin plastic films.
- Total: Expect ~39.2% to 41.0% total landed duty cost. This is a high-cost category for importers.
π― 2. 3919.90.50.60 & 3919.10.20.55
(For Roll Film Forms)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β NO |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3919.xxxx β Section 301 β Section 122 |
π Explanation:
- Rolls generally have a slightly higher base tariff (5.8%) compared to some sheet codes (4.2%), leading to a total of 40.8%.
- The surcharge structure remains identical.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Have)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must specify: "High Definition Microfilm," Material (PET/BOPP), Form (Roll/Sheet), Dimensions. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Clearly state net/gross weight and dimensions. |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Confirm thickness (microns/mils) and width. Critical for correct HS sub-code. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To prove Chinese origin (or exemption if re-exported). |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm it is 100% Plastic. If it has adhesive layers, declare "Self-Adhesive Film" (may change HS to 3919.10). |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Tips)
π₯ "Form Determines Code, Material Determines Base Rate!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| PET Film in Rolls | HS 3919.90.50.60 |
Mistaking for "Paper" or "Photo Film" (wrong chapter) |
| Cut PET Sheets | HS 3920.62.00.90 |
Using generic "Plastic Sheet" without specifying PET |
| BOPP Film | HS 3920.99.20.00 |
Not distinguishing from PET (different base rates possible) |
| Adhesive Microfilm | HS 3919.10.xxxx |
Forgetting to declare adhesive β Misclassification penalty |
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| High Value Data Storage | If the film contains pre-recorded data (e.g., scanned documents), it may be classified differently (Chapter 37 or 85). However, blank HD microfilm is always Chapter 39. |
| Composite Films | If the film has a metallic layer (e.g., for shielding), it may be excluded from Chapter 39. Provide a composition breakdown to customs. |
| Sample vs. Bulk | Ensure the value declared matches the actual transaction value. High taxes on samples can lead to re-evaluation. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3920.62.00.90 / 3919.90.50.60 |
39.2% - 41.0% | None specific | High Duties: Section 301 + 122 apply. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3920.62.00 |
0% - 5% | REACH | Lower duties, but strict REACH chemical compliance. |
| π¨π³ China | 3920.62.00 |
4.2% - 6.0% | CCC (if applicable) | Export from China pays base rate; import into China pays base rate. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3920.62.00 |
3.0% - 5.0% | PSE (if electronic) | No major surcharges like the US. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 and 122 tariffs.
- EU/Japan are more favorable for plastic films, but require strict chemical compliance (REACH/PSE).
- Strategy: If exporting to the US, consider value engineering or duty drawback programs if the film is re-exported.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears)
β Error 1: Declaring "Microfilm" as "Photographic Film" (HS 3702)
π Consequence: Incorrect classification. HS 3702 is for light-sensitive film. Blank HD Microfilm is plastic (HS 39).
π Risk: Audit flag for misclassification.
β Error 2: Ignoring the "Roll vs. Sheet" distinction
π Consequence: Using 3919 for sheets or 3920 for rolls.
π Risk: Customs delays, requests for additional info, potential penalties.
β Error 3: Under-declaring value to avoid ~40% tax
π Consequence: Severe fines, seizure of goods, blacklisting.
π Reality: The tax is high but unavoidable for Chinese-origin plastic films.
β Correct Practice:
"Blank High Definition Microfilm, Polyester (PET), Unexposed, Rolls, Width 35mm, Thickness 100 Microns. Origin: China."
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Clearance, Cost Control!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Blank Film is Plastic (Ch 39), Not Photography (Ch 37)."
πΉ "US Imports: Prepare for ~40% Duty (301+122+Base)."
πΉ "Form Matters: Rolls go to 3919, Sheets go to 3920."
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing recorded microfilm (containing data), consult a customs broker immediately. It may fall under Chapter 37 (Photographic) or even Chapter 85 (Digital Storage), which could have different tax implications.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Licensed Customs Broker
π Provide Exact Specifications (Material, Form, Thickness)
π Apply for Advance Ruling (if possible) to Lock in HS Code
β¨ Precision in Classification Saves Thousands!
πΌ Don't let High Definition Microfilm become a High Cost Disaster!
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.