Hot Compress Patch
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3005101000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3005901000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9018200040 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9019102050 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π©Ή Hot Compress Patches (Medical Thermal Therapeutic Patches)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Hot Compress Patches"?
Hot compress patches are thermal therapeutic devices used for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and improving blood circulation. In international trade, their classification depends strictly on composition, function, and packaging.
These products generally fall into two main categories: 1. Pharmaceutical-Impregnated Dressings: Patches that contain medicinal substances (e.g., herbal extracts, NSAIDs) and are impregnated or coated. These are classified under Chapter 30. 2. Mechano-therapy/Massage Appliances: Devices that generate heat mechanically (e.g., electric heating pads, reusable gel packs) or are classified as massage apparatus. These are classified under Chapter 90.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the patch is a single-use, adhesive dressing impregnated with medicine β HS 3005.10.10.00 or 3005.90.10.00.
- If the product is a reusable device (like an electric heating belt) or a massage apparatus β HS 9019.10.20.50.
- If it is a specialized UV/Infrared therapeutic apparatus β HS 9018.20.00.40.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Rate (US/CN) |
|---|---|---|---|
3005.10.10.00 |
Adhesive dressings and other articles having an adhesive layer, coated or impregnated with pharmaceutical substances | Single-use herbal patches, medicated plasters, therapeutic adhesive pads | 0.0% (Base 0% + Additional 0%) |
3005.90.10.00 |
Other wadding, gauze, bandages, similar articles, coated or impregnated with pharmaceutical substances | Non-adhesive medicated gauze, herbal compresses, poultices | 0.0% (Base 0% + Additional 0%) |
9018.20.00.40 |
Therapeutic or prophylactic apparatus using ultraviolet or infrared rays; parts and accessories thereof | Electric infrared heating pads, professional UV therapy devices | 25.0% (Base 0% + Additional 25%) |
9019.10.20.50 |
Mechano-therapy appliances; massage apparatus; parts and accessories thereof; Massage apparatus: Other | Reusable hot water bottles, electric massage heat belts, mechanical warming devices | 0.0% (Base 0% + Additional 0%) |
π Critical Reminder:
- "Pharmaceutical Impregnation" is Key: If the patch contains drugs/herbs and is designed for medical treatment, it is likely Chapter 30.
- "Electrical/Mechanical" vs. "Passive": If the "hot compress" requires electricity (e.g., USB heating patch), it may be scrutinized under Chapter 90 (9018 or 9019).
- Adhesive Layer: If itβs a simple adhesive bandage without pharmaceutical coating, it might fall under 3005.90.10.00, but most "therapeutic" patches are impregnated.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 Tariff Schedule
π― 1. 3005.10.10.00 β Adhesive Dressings, Impregnated with Pharmaceutical Substances
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (if under $800) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 3005.10.10.00 |
π Explanation:
- Medical adhesive dressings impregnated with pharmaceutical substances enjoy 0% duty from China to the US.
- This is a highly favorable classification for herbal pain relief patches, medicated plasters, and similar retail-packaged medical dressings.
π― 2. 3005.90.10.00 β Other Medical Dressings, Impregnated with Pharmaceutical Substances
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (if under $800) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 3005.90.10.00 |
π Explanation:
- Covers non-adhesive medical compresses, gauze pads, or poultices that are impregnated with drugs/herbs.
- Also 0% duty. Ideal for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compresses, herbal steam packs, or non-adhesive therapeutic gauze.
π― 3. 9019.10.20.50 β Massage Apparatus (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (if under $800) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 9019.10.20.50 |
π Explanation:
- Covers mechanical massage devices, including those with heating functions (if classified as massage apparatus).
- 0% duty. Common for reusable electric massage belts with heat functions, if not strictly defined as "therapeutic apparatus" under 9018.
π― 4. 9018.20.00.40 β Therapeutic UV/Infrared Ray Apparatus
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High duty item) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 9018.20.00.40 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Explanation:
- This applies to electronic/infrared heating devices specifically classified as therapeutic apparatus using UV or Infrared rays.
- 25% duty is a significant cost factor.
- Many "electric heating patches" might be misclassified here. If the device is simple, try to classify under 9019.10.20.50 (Massage) for 0% duty.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Medicinal ingredients," "Heating mechanism (chemical vs. electric)," "Usage instructions." |
| β Ingredient List / Formula | βοΈ | Critical for 3005 classification. Must prove "pharmaceutical impregnation." |
| β Product Photos (Clear) | βοΈ | Show packaging, adhesive side, and any electrical components. |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | FDA registration (if applicable), CE, RoHS (if electronic). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Declare exactly as "Medicated Adhesive Patch" or "Therapeutic Heating Patch," not just "Hot Compress." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail contents to avoid confusion between accessories and main product. |
β 2. Declaration Strategies (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Chemical Heat = 3005 (0%), Electric Heat = 9018 (25%) or 9019 (0%)"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk if Misclassified |
|---|---|---|
| Herbal Patch (Adhesive + Drug) | 3005.10.10.00 |
If declared as "Massage Device" β 0% (OK), but FDA may require drug approval. If declared as "Electronic Device" β 25% (Overpay). |
| Reusable Electric Heating Belt | 9019.10.20.50 |
If declared as "Therapeutic Apparatus" β 25% (Overpay). |
| Infrared Heat Lamp/Pad | 9018.20.00.40 |
Correct. 25% duty. Cannot be avoided if it emits IR/UV rays for therapy. |
| Simple Hot Water Bottle | 9019.10.20.50 or 3926.90 |
Often 0% under massage apparatus if designed for warming/massage. |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Self-Heating" Patches (Chemical Reaction) | Classify under 3005.10.10.00 or 3005.90.10.00 if they contain pharmaceutical substances. If no drug, just iron powder/oxygen reaction, it may be 3005.90.10.00 or even 3926 (Plastic goods), but 3005 is safer for medical use. |
| Electric Heating Patches (USB/Rechargeable) | Try to classify under 9019.10.20.50 (Massage Apparatus) to avoid 25% duty. Argue it is for "local warming and massage," not "therapeutic ray emission." |
| Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drug Patches | Ensure FDA compliance. Classification is 3005, but import requires FDA prior notice. |
| Pure Cosmetic Heat Patches (No Drug) | May fall under 3005.90.10.00 or even 3307 (Pre-shave/after-shave), but medical claims push it to 3005. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3005.10.10.00 / 3005.90.10.00 |
0% | FDA Registration (if drug) | Best for adhesive patches. Avoid 9018.20 if possible. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 9018.20.00.40 |
25% | FDA | High duty for infrared devices. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3005.10 / 3005.90 |
0% | CE MDR (Medical Device Regulation) | Zero duty, but strict MDR compliance. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3005.90 |
0% | PMDA Approval | Zero duty for medicinal patches. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3005.10 |
0% | TGA Listing | Zero duty, TGA registration required. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most tariff-friendly for medicinal patches (0%), but strict on FDA classification.
- Infrared/Electric devices attract 25% in the US. Try to reclassify as "Massage Apparatus" (9019) if possible.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood-Teaching Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a Medicinal Patch as a "Cosmetic Mask"
π Consequence: FDA seizure, fine, or forced reclassification to 3005 + penalties.
β Mistake 2: Declaring an Infrared Heater as a "Massage Belt" (9019) to save 25%
π Consequence: Customs audit, retroactive 25% duty + interest. Only do this if the device is truly a mechanical massager with heat, not a therapeutic IR emitter.
β Mistake 3: Using "Hot Compress" as the only description
π Consequence: Customs unclear on whether it's drug (3005) or device (9018). Leads to delays and exams.
β Mistake 4: Ignoring FDA Requirements for 3005 Items
π Consequence: Even with 0% duty, goods will be held at border without FDA Prior Notice and registration.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Medical Adhesive Patch, Impregnated with Herbal Extract (Willow Bark, Ginger), for Pain Relief, Retail Packaged, Model XYZ, FDA Registered"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Drug + Adhesive = 3005 (0%)! β "
πΉ "Infrared/Electric = 9018 (25%)! β Avoid if possible."
πΉ "Massage + Heat = 9019 (0%)! β Try this for electric belts."
πΉ "HS Code decides your cost, Declaration decides your speed!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is a single-use herbal patch, ensure it is clearly marketed as a medical device/dressing and not just a "wellness product" to secure the 0% duty under 3005.
For electric heating patches, consult a customs broker to argue for 9019.10.20.50 (Massage Apparatus) to avoid the 25% tariff.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide ingredient list + Apply for FDA registration (if applicable)
π Let your Hot Compress Patches clear smoothly, stay at 0% duty, and maximize your profit!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every dollar saved on duty 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.