Metal Sequin Fishing Lure
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π£ Metal Sequin Fishing Lure (Hard Plastic/Metal Jigs)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy for US Imports
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Metal Sequin Lure"?
A "Metal Sequin Fishing Lure" typically refers to a small, spinning-style lure made primarily of metal (often brass, aluminum, or tinplate) that mimics a small fish or shrimp. The "sequin" aspect usually refers to the thin, reflective, often colorful metal blade that spins in the water to attract fish.
In international trade, these are classified differently depending on their primary material and function. They are not classified as "fishing lines" or "nets." They fall under Chapter 95 (Toys, Games, and Sports Equipment) or potentially Chapter 73/76/81 (Articles of Base Metal) if considered industrial parts, but Chapter 95 is the standard for consumer fishing tackle.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the lure is primarily metal (blade/body) with some plastic/hook attachments β 9504 or 7320/7616 (rare, usually 9504).
- If it is a plastic body with a metal spinner blade β 9504.40 (Fishing Tackle).
- Most common commercial classification: 9504.40.00.00 (Fishing tackle).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Primary Material |
|---|---|---|---|
9504.40.00.00 |
Fishing Tackle; Spinners and Spoons (including ladle-shaped lures) | Metal sequin lures, spinner baits, spoon lures | Metal/Plastic composite |
9505.10.00.00 |
Christmas Decorations (Incorrect! Do not use) | β Avoid: Sometimes confused due to "sequin" name | N/A |
7320.90.89.00 |
Springs and spring-parts, of iron or steel (Incorrect for finished tackle) | β Avoid: Only if sold as industrial parts, not fishing gear | Metal |
3926.90.98.90 |
Other articles of plastics (Incorrect if metal is primary) | β Avoid: Only if plastic body dominates and metal is minor | Plastic |
π Important Reminder:
- 9504.40.00.00 is the standard and safest classification for Metal Sequin Lures (Spinners/Spoons).
- Do not classify as "jewelry" or "decorations" despite the word "sequin." Customs officials look at function, not just appearance.
- If the lure is 100% metal (no plastic), it still falls under 9504 if intended for fishing.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (US Market Focus)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025-11-10 onwards (Subject to 301 Tariffs)
π― 1. 9504.40.00.00 ββ Fishing Tackle (Spinners/Spoons)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% (Most Favored Nation - MFN) |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25% (Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10% (China-specific, effective Nov 2025) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) for China-origin goods under Section 301/IEEPA |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:9504.40.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Base Rate 0%: Fishing tackle is generally duty-free under MFN.
- 301 Tariff 25%: Applies to all Chinese-origin fishing gear classified under Chapter 95.
- IEEPA 10%: Additional surcharge on Chinese goods to offset economic coercion.
- Total 35%: This is a high effective duty rate. Must be factored into pricing.
π― 2. If Misclassified as 7320.90.89.00 (Metal Parts)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 5.3% |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.3% |
| Risk | HIGH. Misclassification leads to penalties, delays, and higher taxes. |
π Note: Never use Chapter 73 for finished fishing lures. They are sports goods, not industrial metal parts.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (All Mandatory)
| Document | Required? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Spec Sheet | βοΈ | Material composition (e.g., "Brass blade, plastic body, stainless steel hook"), weight, size |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the lure, hook, and packaging. Show itβs a fishing lure, not jewelry |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly state: "Metal Spinner Fishing Lure, for recreational fishing" |
| β Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Justification | βοΈ | Brief explanation: "Function is to attract fish via spinning action. Classified under 9504.40" |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To prove China origin (triggers 301/IEEPA) or other origin (may reduce duty) |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Function Over Form, Fishing Tackle, Not Jewelry!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Sequin Lure | 9504.40.00.00 - "Fishing Lure, Spinner Type" |
β Call it "Metal Decorative Sequin" β Risk of misclassification |
| Lure with Hook Attached | Declare as complete lure under 9504.40 | β Split into "hook" + "lure" β Higher combined duty |
| Bulk Packaging | Declare unit price per lure | β Declare per kg β Customs may reject for lack of value clarity |
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Lures with Custom Branding | Provide brand authorization letter to avoid IP issues |
| Lures with Baits Attached | Still classified under 9504.40 as a complete fishing tackle set |
| Non-Chinese Origin (e.g., Vietnam) | May be exempt from IEEPA 10%, but 301 25% may still apply if assembled in China. Verify Substantial Transformation |
| High-Value Collectible Lures | If sold as antiques/collectibles (>100 years old), may fall under 9701 (art/collectibles) with 0% duty. But new lures are not collectibles |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9504.40.00.00 |
35% (25% 301 + 10% IEEPA) | FTC Labeling (Country of Origin) | High duty cost; plan pricing accordingly |
| π¨π³ China | 9504.40.00.00 |
0% | N/A | Domestic sales are duty-free |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9504.40.00 |
0% | CE (if plastic parts), REACH (chemical compliance) | No additional anti-dumping |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 9504.40.00 |
5% | RCM (if electrical, not applicable here) | No major surcharges |
| π―π΅ Japan | 9504.40.00 |
0% | PSE (not applicable for non-electronic) | Low barrier to entry |
π Conclusion:
- The US is the only major market imposing heavy additional tariffs on Chinese fishing lures.
- 35% total duty significantly impacts profit margins. Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., Vietnam, India) if targeting the US market.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Calling the product "Sequin" without context
π Consequence: Customs may think itβs garment decoration (6307.90) β Wrong HS Code, delays, fines.
π Solution: Always use "Fishing Lure" or "Spinner Lure" in the description.
β Mistake 2: Under-declaring value
π Consequence: Seizure, penalties, and blacklisting.
π Solution: Declare CIF value accurately.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring IEEPA 10% surcharge
π Consequence: Unexpected tax bill at customs.
π Solution: Budget for 35% total duty (25% 301 + 10% IEEPA + 0% base).
β Mistake 4: Misclassifying as "Jewelry" (7113)
π Consequence: Higher duty (e.g., 3-5% base + 301) and regulatory non-compliance (jewelry standards donβt apply).
π Solution: Stick to 9504.40.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Metal Spinner Fishing Lure, Brass Blade, Plastic Body, Stainless Steel Hook, 2g, Model: ML-001, for Recreational Fishing"
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Clearance, Cost Control, and Efficiency!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Fishing Lure, Not Jewelry; 9504.40, Not 7320."
πΉ "35% Total Duty for China Origin; Plan Your Price Accordingly."
πΉ "Clear Description Saves Time and Money."
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes into the US, consider Applying for an Advance Ruling from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to confirm the HS Code and tariff liability. This provides legal certainty and prevents post-clearance audits.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Licensed Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Confirm Origin
π Ensure Compliant Declaration, Avoid Penalties, and Maximize Profits!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Penny of Duty Counts!
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.