High Purity Artificial Graphite Plate
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3801105090 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3801105010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π High Purity Artificial Graphite Plate (HPAGP)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Tier-1 Compliance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Truly Understand "Artificial Graphite"?
High Purity Artificial Graphite (HPAGP) is a critical advanced material used in lithium-ion batteries, semiconductor manufacturing, and high-temperature industrial applications. It is not natural graphite, nor is it raw carbon black. It is specifically engineered with high carbon content (>99.9%) and precise structural properties.
In international trade, the classification hinges on two key factors: 1. Form: Is it a "plate/semimanufacture" or a "surface-modified powder"? 2. Origin/Type: Is it Artificial (synthetic) or Natural?
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point: - If the product is a solid plate, block, or paste made from synthetic/artificial graphite β It falls under 3801.10.50 (specifically sub-headings for artificial graphite). - If the product is natural graphite that has been surface-modified or spherical β It falls under 3801.10.90 or other natural graphite headings. - Note: The provided data explicitly limits classification to Artificial Graphite categories. Do not misclassify natural graphite here, nor misclassify pure carbon fibers (which belong to Chapter 68 or 69).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
Based on the provided data, the product "High Purity Artificial Graphite Plate" is strictly categorized under Heading 3801. Below is the precise breakdown:
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Applicable Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
3801.10.50.90 |
Artificial graphite: Other | Non-spherical, non-surface-modified artificial graphite in plates, blocks, or semimanufactures | Standard HPAGP plates, blocks, or semi-finished forms that are not surface-modified spherical graphite |
3801.10.50.10 |
Artificial graphite: Surface-modified spherical graphite | Artificial graphite particles that have been treated to be spherical or surface-modified | Note: While your product is a "Plate," if it consists of surface-modified spherical particles bonded into a plate, it might fall here. However, typically "Plate" implies a bulk form. Check if the plate is made of spherical powder vs. extruded/crystalline artificial graphite. |
π Key Reminder: - 3801.10.50.90 is the most likely fit for standard High Purity Artificial Graphite Plates (blocks, plates) that are not specifically "surface-modified spherical graphite." - 3801.10.50.10 is reserved for Surface-modified spherical graphite. If your plate is made from this specific material, use this code. Otherwise, use
.90. - Both codes fall under Artificial Graphite. Natural graphite is excluded.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Assumed based on typical context of 25% tariff)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 (Current Trade Regulations)
π― 1. 3801.10.50.90 ββ Artificial Graphite: Other (Plates/Blocks)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (High-value industrial materials) |
| Legal Basis Path | 3801.10.50.90 β Section 301 Footnote β USITC Tariff Schedule |
π Explanation: - Base Rate: 0% for artificial graphite under normal trade relations. - Additional Tariff: 25.0% is applied due to US trade actions against Chinese-origin goods in this category (often linked to industrial materials or specific HTS lists). - Total Liability: You must pay 25% of the customs value on import.
π― 2. 3801.10.50.10 ββ Artificial Graphite: Surface-modified Spherical Graphite
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | 3801.10.50.10 β Section 301 Footnote β USITC Tariff Schedule |
π Note: - The tariff rate is identical to the "Other" category. - The distinction is purely descriptive for customs inspection to ensure the material type matches the declaration. - Both codes carry a 25% additional tariff.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Artificial Graphite Plate, High Purity, >99.9% C" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions of plates/blocks |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: Artificial vs. Natural, Form (Plate/Block), Purity Level |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | Prove origin (US may apply higher rates if origin is not China, but 25% is typical for CN) |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | βοΈ | For safety handling during clearance |
| β Proof of Artificial Origin | βοΈ | Crucial: Lab report or manufacturing process description proving it is synthetic/artificial (e.g., from coke/graphite mix), NOT natural mined graphite. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Artificial not Natural, Plate not Powder, 25% Tax is Fixed!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Consequence of Error |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard HPAGP Plate (not spherical) | 3801.10.50.90 |
3801.10.50.10 |
Minor misclassification, but correct tax (25%). Still risky if inspected. |
| HPAGP made from Spherical Artificial Graphite | 3801.10.50.10 |
3801.10.50.90 |
Minor misclassification, correct tax (25%). |
| Natural Graphite Plate | β DO NOT USE 3801.10.50.xx | 3801.10.90.xx (if applicable) |
Major Risk: Wrong HS Code leads to potential penalties, re-inspection, or wrong duty assessment. |
| Pure Carbon Fiber/Sheet (Chapter 68) | β Do not use 3801 | 6815.xx |
Misclassification β Delays + Fines |
β 3. Special Handling Tips
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| "High Purity" Claim | Provide purity certificates (>99.5% or >99.9%). Customs may verify if itβs truly "graphite" or just "carbon." |
| Form Confusion | If the "plate" is actually a coated paper or composite, it might fall under Chapter 48 or 68. Ensure itβs pure graphite form. |
| US Origin? | If manufactured in the US, the 25% additional tariff may not apply. Provide proof of US origin. |
| Third Country Origin | If made in Vietnam/Malaysia from Chinese graphite, rules of origin apply. May still be subject to 25%. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Total Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ United States | 3801.10.50.90 |
25.0% | None (Standard) | High tariff due to Section 301 |
| π¨π³ China | 3801.10.50.90 |
0% - 5% | None | Export from China is tax-free or low duty |
| πͺπΊ European Union | 3801.10.90 (Check EU CN) |
~0% - 5% | REACH | EU classification may differ slightly; check local CN |
| π¬π§ United Kingdom | 3801.10.90 |
~0% - 5% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply |
π Conclusion: - The US imposes a significant 25% additional tariff on artificial graphite plates from China. - This cost must be factored into your pricing strategy. - Ensure the product is not natural graphite, as natural graphite may have different tariffs and regulatory requirements.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Graphite" without specifying "Artificial"
π Consequence: Customs may assume natural graphite, leading to misclassification and potential delays.
β
Fix: Always declare "Artificial Graphite Plate" with purity specs.
β Mistake 2: Confusing "Artificial Graphite" with "Carbon Fiber" or "Carbon Sheet"
π Consequence: Wrong HS Code (e.g., 6815 vs 3801) β Audit Risk & Fines.
β
Fix: Provide a clear product description: "Synthetic graphite block, not composite, not fiber."
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the 25% Additional Tariff
π Consequence: Underpayment of duties β Penalties + Back Taxes + Interest.
β
Fix: Budget for 25% total tax on CIF value for US imports from China.
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Compliance Saves Money!
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ "Artificial Graphite Plate = 3801.10.50"
πΉ "US Import from China = 25% Total Tax"
πΉ "Not Natural, Not Powder, Just Plate"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing into the US, consider applying for a Binding Ruling from CBP to confirm the HS Code (3801.10.50.90 vs 3801.10.50.10) before shipment. This protects you from future liability.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult your customs broker with Purity Certificates and Manufacturing Process Docs.
π Pre-calculate your landed cost: CIF Value Γ 1.25 = Minimum Landed Cost.
β¨ Accurate Classification Starts Here!
πΌ Donβt Let a 0.5% Classification Error Cost You 25% in Duties!
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.