Laboratory Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5903102090 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919102055 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920100000 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920200055 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5903902000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π§ͺ Laboratory Film (Lab Grade Plastic/Polymer Films)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Laboratory Film"?
Laboratory Film refers to high-precision plastic or polymer sheets used in research, medical testing, and industrial quality control. Unlike general-purpose packaging film, lab films often require specific material properties (transparency, chemical resistance, static-free).
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on: 1. Material Composition: Is it Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), PVC, or a composite? 2. Processing Method: Is it coated/laminated or just extruded? 3. End-Use: Specific use in labs does not automatically change the HS Code; the physical characteristics do.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the film is coated or laminated with substances (like rubber or plastic) to enhance specific lab properties β Likely Chapter 59.
- If it is a pure plastic sheet (extruded, not coated) β Likely Chapter 39.
- Do not assume "Lab Use" = Special Chapter 90 code unless it is part of a specific instrument kit.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most likely classifications for Laboratory Film, ranked by applicability:
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material/Structure | Total Tax Rate (US/CN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5903.10.20.90 |
Textile/fabric-backed plastic film, coated/laminated | Multi-layer lab films, reinforced safety sheets | Polyethylene/PVC + Coating | 35.0% |
5903.90.20.00 |
Other textile-backed plastic films, coated/laminated | Composite lab films with >70% plastic content | Plastic >70% + Support | 35.0% |
3920.10.00.00 |
Non-cellular Polyethylene (PE) plates, sheets, film | Pure PE lab wraps, chemical-resistant PE liners | PE Polymer, Uncoated | 39.2% |
3920.20.00.55 |
Non-cellular Polypropylene (PP) plates, sheets, film | Rigid lab trays, PP barrier films | PP/Olefin Polymer, Uncoated | 39.2% |
3919.10.20.55 |
Self-adhesive plastic films (Fallback Category) | Adhesive lab tapes, sticky cover films | Plastic, Self-adhesive | 40.8% |
π Critical Note:
- Chapter 59 (5903.xx): Applies if the film is coated, covered, or laminated with plastics/rubbers. This is common for durable, reusable lab films.
- Chapter 39 (3920.xx): Applies if it is a solid, non-cellular plastic sheet without significant coating/lamination. This is common for disposable wrap films.
- Chapter 39 (3919.xx): A "catch-all" for self-adhesive films if they don't fit the specific adhesive definitions in Chapter 35 or other specific 39 headings.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 5903.10.20.90 & 5903.90.20.00 ββ Coated/Laminated Laboratory Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (Ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:5903.xx β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Despite a 0% base tariff, the combined Section 301 (25%) and Section 122 (10%) tariffs result in a 35% total cost.
- These codes apply to films that are modified (coated/laminated), which often includes higher-grade, durable lab films.
π― 2. 3920.10.00.00 & 3920.20.00.55 ββ Pure PE/PP Laboratory Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% - 5.8% (Varies by specific polymer grade) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3920.xx β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Higher base tariff than Chapter 59, but still subject to the same surcharges.
- Common for disposable PE/PP lab wraps, gloves, or sterile barriers.
π― 3. 3919.10.20.55 ββ Self-Adhesive Laboratory Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3919.xx β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Highest Tax Rate in the list.
- Only apply if the film is self-adhesive (like tape or sticky labels) and does not fit other definitions. Use as a last resort.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail: Material (PE, PP, PVC), Thickness, Coating type, Static-free status. |
| β MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) | βοΈ | Critical for lab supplies to prove chemical safety and composition. |
| β Product Photos (Packaging & Label) | βοΈ | Show "Laboratory Use Only" or "For Research Use Only" labels if applicable. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Plastic Film for Laboratory Use" β avoid vague terms like "Plastic Sheet". |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Required to verify CN origin and apply surcharges correctly. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail net/gross weight. Ensure no mixed HS codes in one box unless declared separately. |
β 2. Declaration Tactics (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Material First, Process Second, Lab Use is NOT a Code!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| PE Wrap Film (No coating) | 3920.10.00.00 |
Declare as "Lab Equipment" β Wrong Chapter |
| PVC-Coated Fabric Film | 5903.10.20.90 |
Declare as "Plastic Sheet" β Wrong Subheading |
| Self-Sticky Lab Label Film | 3919.10.20.55 |
Declare as "Paper Label" β Wrong Material |
| Composite Film (>70% Plastic) | 5903.90.20.00 |
Split into "Fabric" and "Plastic" β Higher Total Tax |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Sterile/Unopened Lab Packs | Still declared as Film. Sterility does not change HS Code unless it's a medical device kit (Chapter 90). |
| Anti-Static Lab Films | Specify "Anti-Static" in description, but HS Code remains based on material (PE/PP in Ch. 39). |
| Samples (De Minimis) | β Cannot use De Minimis ($800 threshold) for CN origin lab films. All shipments are subject to 35-40.8% tax. |
| Mixed Shipments (Lab + Accessories) | Declare Lab Film separately. Do not bundle with microscopes or centrifuges to avoid misclassification penalties. |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (CN Origin) | Certification Req. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 5903.10.20.90 / 3920.xx |
35.0% - 40.8% | FDA (if food-contact), TSCA | High Barrier: Section 301 + 122 apply. |
| π¨π³ China | 3920.10.00.00 |
4.2% - 5.8% | CCC (if specific types) | Low base tariff, no US surcharges. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3920.10.00.00 |
6.5% | REACH, RoHS | No Section 301 equivalent, but REACH compliance is strict. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3920.10.00.00 |
6.5% | UKCA, UK REACH | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3920.10.00.00 |
6.0% | PSE, JIS | Low tariff, high quality scrutiny. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 and Section 122.
- Lab Use does not grant duty-free status in the US.
- EU/Asia markets have stable, lower tariffs but stricter chemical compliance (REACH/RoHS).
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring "Lab Film" as "General Plastic Packaging" (3920.10.00.00) when it is actually coated (5903.xx)
π Consequence: Under-declaration risk. If audited, penalty + back-tariff.
β Error 2: Assuming "Laboratory Use" qualifies for De Minimis exemption
π Consequence: Shipment detained, seized, or returned. No De Minimis for CN Origin!
β Error 3: Missing MSDS for plastic films
π Consequence: FDA or CBP request for chemical composition verification. Delay in clearance (7-14 days).
β Error 4: Confusing 3919 (Self-adhesive) with 3920 (Non-adhesive)
π Consequence: Wrong tax rate. 3919 has a higher base tariff (5.8% vs 4.2% for PE).
β Correct Practice:
"Polyethylene Laboratory Film, Non-Adhesive, 0.05mm Thickness, For Chemical Handling, Model XYZ, TSCA Compliant"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Control, Efficient Clearance!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Material Dictates Code, Coating Changes Chapter, Lab Use is Irrelevant for Tariff!"
πΉ "Section 301 + 122 = 35%+ Tax, De Minimis is Blocked, Prep Docs Early!"
π Pro Tip:
If your laboratory film is manufactured in Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may exempt from US surcharges.
Recommend Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) with CBP for high-volume shipments to ensure 5903 vs 3920 accuracy.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker + Provide Material Specs + Request CBP Binding Ruling
π Let your Laboratory Film clear smoothly, stay compliant, and protect margins!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Tariff Saves You Thousands!
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.