Monopod
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9620007000 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9620005000 | 40.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9006910001 | 23.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9006990000 | 21.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π€³ Monopod (Camera Support Single-Point Stabilizer)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Transit Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Monopod"?
A monopod is a single-legged support for cameras, video equipment, or telescopes, designed to provide stability while allowing for mobile shooting. Unlike tripods, it offers one point of contact with the ground. In international trade, the classification heavily depends on its primary use, structure, and material.
β οΈ Key Distinction Points:
- If used primarily as an accessory for cameras (photography/videography) β Chapter 90 (Optical/Photographic Instruments).
- If considered a general stand or mount without specific camera integration β Chapter 96 (Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles).
- Material Inference: Based on typical market standards, aluminum is the dominant material for structural legs, influencing specific subheadings.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
The following HS Codes are derived from the provided dataset, categorized by their logical fit for "Monopods."
| HS Code | Product Description | Summary & Logic | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9620.00.70.00 | Aluminum Monopods (General Support) | Matches form (single leg); no material conflict. Inferred as Aluminum. | 37.5% |
| 9620.00.50.00 | Other Monopods/Stands (Fallback) | Matches form and use. Based on parts/fallback rules. Material may fit. | 40.3% |
| 9006.91.00.01 | Camera Accessories/Parts (Metal) | Classified as a camera accessory/part. Fits usage logic and support structure. | 23.3% |
| 9006.99.00.00 | Other Camera Accessories | Classified as a camera accessory. Material inferred as Metal or Plastic. Fits "other" accessory logic. | 21.4% |
π Key Insight:
- Chapter 90 Codes (9006.91/9006.99) offer the lowest tax rates (21.4% - 23.3%) but require proving the item is an integral accessory/part of a camera system.
- Chapter 96 Codes (9620.00) are higher tax (37.5% - 40.3%) but may be safer if the monopod is sold as a general photographic stand rather than a specific camera part.
π° 3. Detailed Tariff Breakdown (2026ζζ°ε ³η¨θ―¦ζ )
β Scope: United States (US) Imports from China (CN)
β Components: Basic Tariff + Section 301 Tariff + Section 122 Tariff
π― 1. 9620.00.70.00 β Aluminum Monopod (General Use)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 2.5% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10.0% |
| Total Rate | 37.5% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 37.5% |
| Logic | Classified under "Other tripods, monopods, and similar articles," specifically inferred as Aluminum. |
π Note:
- The Section 122 Tariff applies specifically to certain steel/iron products, but the data indicates it is applied here.
- De Minimis Exemption: β Not Eligible (Due to high total rate and trade restrictions).
π― 2. 9620.00.50.00 β Other Monopods (Fallback)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10.0% |
| Total Rate | 40.3% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.3% |
| Logic | Fallback category when specific material (aluminum) cannot be fully confirmed or fits a different sub-type. |
π― 3. 9006.91.00.01 β Camera Accessory (Metal)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10.0% |
| Total Rate | 23.3% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 23.3% |
| Logic | Classified as "Parts and accessories for cameras" under 9006.91. The lower Section 301 rate (7.5%) applies here compared to general goods. |
π Why is this cheaper?
- Section 301 Tariff for Chapter 90 (9006) is often 7.5%, whereas for Chapter 96 (9620) it is 25%. This is the key to cost reduction.
π― 4. 9006.99.00.00 β Other Camera Accessories
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10.0% |
| Total Rate | 21.4% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 21.4% |
| Logic | The most flexible "Other" category for camera accessories. Best if the monopod is not strictly defined as a "stand" but as a "camera support accessory." |
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential for Clearance)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Product Specification Sheet | β Yes | Must specify: Material (Aluminum/Plastic), Max Load, Attachment Type (1/4", 3/8"). |
| Photos (Labeled) | β Yes | Show the monopod attached to a camera to prove it is an accessory, not a standalone stand. |
| Commercial Invoice | β Yes | Description: "Monopod for Camera Support" or "Camera Accessory: Single-Leg Support." |
| Material Declaration | β Yes | Crucial for distinguishing between 9620 (Aluminum) and 9006 (Accessory). |
| Packing List | β Yes | Confirm no other restricted items are included. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (How to Choose)
π₯ "Accessory Logic, Lowest Tax Strategy!"
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Monopod sold with Camera | 9006.99.00.00 or 9006.91.00.01 | Proven as part of the camera system. Lower Section 301 rate (7.5%). |
| Monopod sold alone (General) | 9620.00.70.00 | If material is clearly Aluminum. Higher tax but clear classification. |
| Monopod sold alone (Material Unclear) | 9620.00.50.00 | Fallback option. Highest risk/cost (40.3%). Avoid if possible. |
| Monopod with Camera Accessories | 9006.91.00.01 | If it includes specific metal parts designed for cameras. |
β 3. Critical Risks & Pitfalls
| Risk | Consequence | Mitigation |
|---|---|---|
| Misclassification as "General Stand" | Paying 37.5%-40.3% instead of 21.4%-23.3% | Prove Camera Use: Show photos of it mounted on a DSLR/Mirrorless camera. |
| Section 122 Tariff Application | Unexpected 10% add-on | Confirm if Section 122 applies to your specific shipment type. In the provided data, it is applied to all. |
| Vague Description | Customs Detention/Inspection | Use precise terms: "Aluminum Monopod for Photographic Cameras" vs. "Camera Stand." |
| Material Misdeclaration | Penalties | If declared as plastic but is aluminum, or vice versa, expect scrutiny. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Approx. Tax Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9006.99.00.00 |
21.4% | Best rate if classified as camera accessory. |
| π¨π³ China | 9620.00.70.00 |
~5-10% | Import duties vary; Section 301/122 do not apply. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9006.91.00 |
0-4.5% | Generally low duties for camera accessories. No Section 301/122. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9006.99.00 |
0-4.5% | Post-Brexit rules; similar to EU for optical accessories. |
π Conclusion for US Imports:
- Aim for Chapter 90 (9006.x) to save ~16-19% in tariffs compared to Chapter 96.
- Key Evidence: Provide proof that the monopod is specifically designed for cameras (e.g., quick-release plates, camera mounting threads).
π 6. Common Mistakes & Avoidance Guide (Blood & Tears)
β Mistake 1: Declaring as "Tripod" or "Stand"
π Result: Misclassification risk. Monopods and Tripods have different subheadings in some chapters, but for US 9620, they are grouped. However, for 9006, being an "Accessory" is key.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Material Specification
π Result: If material is not stated, Customs may assume worst-case scenario or assign 9620.00.50.00 (40.3%).
β Mistake 3: Failing to Link to Camera Use
π Result: Denied the lower 7.5% Section 301 rate. Must show itβs not just a "staff" or "pole" but a camera accessory.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Aluminum Monopod for Photographic Cameras, Model XYZ, Max Load 10kg, Quick Release Plate Included, Made in China."
π― 7. Final Recommendations: Professional Clearance, Cost Efficiency!
π― Actionable Tips:
πΉ Best Rate: Aim for
9006.99.00.00(21.4%) or9006.91.00.01(23.3%).
πΉ Evidence: Provide images of the monopod attached to a camera body.
πΉ Description: Use "Camera Accessory" or "Camera Support" rather than generic "Stand."
πΉ Avoid:9620.00.50.00unless absolutely necessary (highest cost).π‘ Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes, consider Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) with US Customs to confirm if your specific monopod design qualifies for 9006.99.00.00. This locks in the lower tax rate before shipment.
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Profit Margin Depends on Precision!
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.