Medium Density Polyethylene Blow Resin
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3901205000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3902900050 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3916100000 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3916903000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3901105030 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ͺ Medium Density Polyethylene Blow Resin (MDPE)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "MDPE Blow Resin"?
Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) Blow Resin is a thermoplastic polymer produced from ethylene monomers. It occupies a specific niche between Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). In international trade, it is classified based on its physical state (primary form) and chemical composition (olefin polymer).
β οΈ Key Classification Logic:
- Physical State: It must be in a "primary form" (e.g., granules, powders, liquids) not yet manufactured into final articles (like pipes or bags).
- Chemical Identity: It is an olefin polymer (ethylene-based).
- Process Specificity: "Blow Resin" indicates it is optimized for blow molding processes (containers, bottles), but this processing method does not change its HS code, only its technical specifications.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Rate (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901.20.50.00 | Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE), Primary Form | MDPE specifically designated for injection or general molding, fitting "other" definitions | 41.5% |
| 3902.90.00.50 | Polyethylene (Olefin Polymers), Primary Form | General PE classification under olefin polymers, applicable to blow resin | 41.5% |
| 3916.10.00.00 | Polyethylene (Ethylene Polymers), Primary Form | Fits the broad category of ethylene polymers in primary shape | 41.5% |
| 3916.90.30.00 | Polyethylene (Plastics), Primary Form (Resin/Granules) | No material or category conflict; generic PE resin classification | 41.5% |
| 3901.10.50.30 | Medium Density Polyethylene, Primary Form | Specifically categorized under MDPE primary products | 41.5% |
π Critical Note:
- All listed HS codes share the same total tax burden (41.5%) for goods originating from China and imported into the USA.
- The distinction between codes (3901 vs. 3902 vs. 3916) is largely administrative within the tariff schedule, but all apply to primary form polyethylene.
- Do not classify as finished goods (e.g., pipes under 3917 or films under 3920). This is raw material.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025-11-10 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. General Rate for All Listed MDPE Codes (3901.20.50.00, 3902.90.00.50, etc.)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01, targeting Chinese goods) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific levy applicable to this chemical category) |
| Total Tax Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Path | USITC:3901.xxxx.xxxx β SECTION_301:9903.88.01 β SECTION_122 |
π Explanation:
- Base 6.5%: Standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for plastic polymers in primary forms.
- Section 301 (+25%): The "Trade War" tariff applied to a wide range of Chinese industrial inputs, including plastics.
- Section 122 (+10%): An additional levy often applied to certain chemical and plastic imports to protect domestic manufacturing.
- Total 41.5%: This is a very high cost for bulk commodity imports. Margins must be carefully calculated.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: MDPE, Blow Resin, Melt Flow Index (MFI), Density, Tinuvin/additives content. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for confirming China origin. If re-exported from Vietnam/Malaysia, provide full supply chain proof to attempt duty mitigation. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Medium Density Polyethylene Resin, Primary Form, UN3077 (if hazardous, usually not for solid resin)." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail net/gross weight. Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Shells." Use "Polyethylene Granules." |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Required by CBP and DOT. Confirm it is non-hazardous solid resin. |
| β Lab Test Report | βοΈ | Prove it is not mixed with other polymers (e.g., PP, PVC) which would change the HS code. |
β 2. Declaration Techniques (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Primary Form Only, No Finished Goods, Name Must Match!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Error to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| MDPE Granules/Powder | 3901.20.50.00 (or similar) |
Declare as "Plastic Pipes" or "Bags" β Wrong HS, Severe Penalty |
| MDPE + Additives | Still 3901/3902/3916 if < critical % |
Over-declaring additives if it changes the chemical nature |
| Mixed with other Resins | Not Single HS Code | Mixing PE with PP without splitting β Customs seizure |
π Tip:
- Use the exact phrase "Medium Density Polyethylene" in the description.
- Specify "Primary Form" to prevent classification as finished articles.
- Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Raw Material" without specifying the polymer type.
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Colored Resin | If pigments are added, ensure they are within the allowable limits for primary polymers. If too high, it might be classified as "Pre-colored plastic," changing the HS code. |
| Re-export from Third Country | If shipped from Vietnam/Malaysia, provide proof that substantial transformation occurred. Otherwise, CBP may still look through to China origin and apply the 41.5%. |
| Small Samples | Even small quantities are subject to duties. De Minimis ($800) does not apply due to the high tariff nature. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3901.20.50.00 / 3916.10.00.00 |
41.5% (Base 6.5% + 25% + 10%) | None specific for resin | Highest duty burden globally for Chinese PE |
| π¨π³ China | 3901.10.50.30 |
5-6.5% | N/A | Domestic trade, low duty |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3901.10.00 |
0% (Mostly) | REACH Registration | No Section 301 equivalent, but REACH compliance is key |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3901.10.00 |
5% | N/A | Moderate duty, no surtax |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3901.10.00 |
0% | N/A | Free trade advantages |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most expensive market for Chinese MDPE resin due to the combination of Base Tariff, Section 301, and Section 122.
- Cost Strategy: Consider sourcing from non-China origins (e.g., Saudi Arabia, South Korea) to avoid the 35% surtax.
- Documentation: Precision in declaring "Primary Form" is critical to avoid misclassification penalties.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring as "Plastic Pellets" without specifying "Polyethylene"
π Consequence: CBP cannot verify the HS code β Delayed clearance, potential audit.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the "Section 122" surtax
π Consequence: Underpayment of duties by 10% β Back taxes + Interest + Penalties.
β Mistake 3: Claiming De Minimis for small shipments
π Consequence: Shipment seized because Section 301/122 goods are not eligible for de minimis exemption.
β Mistake 4: Mixing MDPE with LDPE or HDPE in one container without separate declaration
π Consequence: Complex valuation and classification issues β Risk of reclassification to higher duty rates.
β Correct Practice:
"Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) Blow Molding Resin, Primary Form, Granules, UN1238 (if applicable), Made in China, HS 3901.20.50.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Primary Form, MDPE, 41.5% Total!"
πΉ "301 + 122 = High Cost, Plan Your Supply Chain!"
πΉ "Document Everything, Avoid Misclassification!"
π Pro Tip:
If your MDPE resin is originating from Saudi Arabia, South Korea, or the USA, the tariff drops to 0%-6.5%.
Recommend Advance Ruling if you have a complex formulation or additive package.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker
π Prepare detailed SDS and Specifications
π Ensure smooth customs clearance and cost efficiency!
β¨ Professional clearance starts with accurate classification!
πΌ Every dollar of duty matters!
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.