Mini Glow Stick
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9505906000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9505904000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9503000073 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9503000071 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999397 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999330 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Mini Glow Sticks (Festive & Party Essentials)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown | Professional Entry Strategy
π One, Product Definition & Classification: Are These "Toys" or "Party Supplies"?
Mini Glow Sticks are light-emitting plastic tubes filled with chemicals that react to create light. In international trade, they are often confused with general toys or electrical lighting. However, based on the provided data, they fall strictly under Chapter 95: Toys, Games and Sports requisites; parts and accessories thereof.
There are two critical distinctions for importers: 1. Party Favor Classification: If marketed strictly as noise-makers, streamers, or general festive decor (including basic glow sticks in some specific sub-codes), they may fall under 9505.90.40.00. 2. General Entertainment/Toy Classification: If considered "Other" festive articles, tricks, or joke items, they fall under 9505.90.60.00.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- Do not classify as "Toys for Children" (9503) unless they are explicitly designed, labeled, and determined for use by persons under 3 years old (which is rare for glow sticks due to chemical hazards) or 3-12 years old as a standard toy. Glow sticks are typically classified as Festive/Entertainment Articles. - Do NOT classify as Chemical Products (3824) even though they contain chemicals, unless they are sold as raw binders or industrial mixtures. The finished article is an entertainment product.
π¦ Two, HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Authorized Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Tax Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
9505.90.40.00 |
Festive, carnival...: Confetti, paper spirals...; party favors and noisemakers; parts/accessories | Basic glow sticks marketed specifically as "party favors," confetti, or noisemakers for events | β 0% Total Tax |
9505.90.60.00 |
Festive, carnival...: Other: Other | Glow sticks categorized as general "other" festive articles, magic tricks, or practical joke accessories | β 0% Total Tax |
9503.00.00.71 |
Tricycles, scooters...; dolls, other toys...: Under 3 years of age | β NOT RECOMMENDED for Glow Sticks. Glow sticks contain chemicals and are choking/ingestion hazards for toddlers. | β 0% (But High Regulatory Risk) |
9503.00.00.73 |
Tricycles, scooters...; dolls, other toys...: 3 to 12 years of age | β NOT RECOMMENDED. Unless packaged as a specific "toy set" with safety certs, simple glow sticks are usually Festive Articles (9505). | β 0% (But Potential Misclassification) |
3824.99.93.30 / 3824.99.93.97 |
Prepared binders...; Chemical products... | β WRONG CLASSIFICATION. Do not classify finished glow sticks here. This is for industrial chemical mixtures/binders. | β 30% Total Tax |
π Critical Reminder:
- Glow Sticks are NOT Chemical Products (3824) in their finished form. Classifying them as such to avoid Chapter 95 scrutiny is a common customs error that leads to 30% duties and potential penalties. - The primary classification is Chapter 95 (9505) because they are "Festive, carnival or other entertainment articles."
π° Three, 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 Period
π― 1. 9505.90.40.00 β Party Favors (e.g., Glow Sticks as Party Items)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (If value <$800 per person per day) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:9505.90.40.00 |
π Explanation:
- This code carries a zero tariff rate for Chinese origin goods under the current data. - No additional Section 301 or IEEPA surcharges apply to this specific subheading for festive party items like glow sticks.
π― 2. 9505.90.60.00 β Other Festive Articles (General Glow Sticks)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (If value <$800 per person per day) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:9505.90.60.00 |
π Explanation:
- Similar to the above, "Other" festive articles are also duty-free (0% total). - This is the safest catch-all for glow sticks not explicitly labeled as "noisemakers" or "confetti."
β οΈ AVOID: 3824.99.93.97 / 3824.99.93.30 β Chemical Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 30.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 30% |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:3824.99.93.97 |
π Warning:
- Do NOT classify glow sticks as "chemical preparations." - If misclassified, you will pay 30% duty instead of 0%. - This is a significant cost increase with no functional benefit.
π οΈ Four, Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Description | βοΈ | Use terms like "Plastic Glow Sticks," "Festive Party Accessories." Avoid vague terms like "Chemical Light." |
| β Intended Use | βοΈ | State clearly: "For use at parties, concerts, festivals." |
| β Ingredient List (MSDS) | βοΈ | Required because glow sticks contain chemicals (e.g., phenyl oxalate, ester, fluorescent dye). Ensures safety compliance. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly mark "Duty-Free under HTS 9505.90.60.00" or similar. |
| β HS Code Declaration | βοΈ | Specify 9505.90.40.00 or 9505.90.60.00. Do not use 3824. |
β 2. Labeling & Safety Tips
π₯ βChemical Contents Must Be Labeled! No Choking Hazards for Toddlers!β
| Situation | Correct Action | Incorrect Action |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Provide MSDS showing non-toxic, water-soluble chemicals if possible. | Omit ingredient info β Customs seizure for safety violation. |
| Target Age Group | Label as "Not for children under 3" (Choking/Ingestion hazard). | Label as "Toy for Under 3" (9503.71) β High regulatory scrutiny. |
| Marketing Claim | "Party Favor" or "Festive Decoration." | "Electronic Toy" β Wrong chapter (9503/8543). |
β 3. Special Scenarios
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Bulk Import (Container Load) | Use 9505.90.60.00. Ensure MSDS is attached. Claim 0% duty. |
| De Minimis Shipments (<$800) | β Eligible for Entry Type 86. Duty-free. Fast clearance. |
| Misclassification Risk | If Customs questions "Chemical" content, prove it is a finished article for entertainment, not an industrial chemical mixture. |
| Other Markets (EU/China) | EU may have different rates. This guide is for US Imports based on the provided tax data. |
π Five, Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Update)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate (China Origin) | Certification | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9505.90.60.00 |
0.0% | N/A | Zero duty, fast clearance. |
| π¨π³ China | 9505.90.60.00 |
~0-5% | CCC (if applicable) | Check local tax rules. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9505.00.90 |
~0-5% | CE Safety Mark | General festive goods. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9505.00.90 |
0% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is highly favorable for glow sticks if correctly classified under 9505. - Zero Duty is achievable, saving significant costs compared to chemical or toy misclassifications.
π Six, Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying Glow Sticks as 3824 (Chemicals)
π Consequence: Pay 30% Duty instead of 0%.
π Fix: Use 9505.90.60.00.
β Error 2: Classifying as 9503.00.00.71 (Toys for Under 3)
π Consequence: Rejected by Customs due to safety hazards (chemicals/choking).
π Fix: Use 9505 (Festive Articles).
β Error 3: Vague Description "Light Stick"
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify or delay for inspection.
π Fix: Use "Festive Glow Stick, Party Accessory."
β Error 4: Ignoring MSDS
π Consequence: Seizure for chemical safety violation.
π Fix: Always include MSDS for chemical-based glow sticks.
β Correct Practice:
"Plastic Mini Glow Sticks, Festive Party Accessory, HTS 9505.90.60.00, Duty-Free, MSDS Attached."
π― Seven, Conclusion: Precise Classification, Maximum Savings!
π― Remember the Golden Rule:
πΉ "Party Stick, Not Chemical. Chapter 95, Not 38. Zero Duty is the Goal!"
πΉ "9505.90.60.00 β The Golden Code for Glow Sticks in the US."
π Pro Tip:
If your glow sticks are pre-packaged in small retail boxes for direct sale, ensure the invoice clearly states "Retail Party Kit" to support the 9505 classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify MSDS for chemical content.
π¦ Confirm HS Code9505.90.60.00on your commercial invoice.
π Enjoy 0% Duty and Smooth US Customs Clearance!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Saved 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.