PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3920620020 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920620050 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921905050 | 39.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921904090 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film"?
PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film is a high-performance polyester film coated with a thin layer of metal (usually aluminum) and treated with scratch-resistant hard coatings. It is widely used in electronics protection, automotive lighting, decorative laminates, and industrial insulation.
In international trade, it is classified based on its material composition (Polyester/PET), form (Film), and specific treatment (Metallized or Protective). The classification varies slightly depending on whether it is primarily defined as a "metallized film" or a "protective film".
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the primary characteristic is metallization (metal coating for conductivity/reflectivity) β Classified under 3920.62 (Other plates, sheets, film... of polyester).
- If the primary characteristic is protection (self-adhesive or non-adhesive protective layer for scratch resistance) β Classified under 3921.90 (Other plates, sheets, film...) or 3919.90 (Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film...).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
3920.62.00.20 |
PET Metallized Film, Polyester Material, Film Form | General metallized PET film for packaging/industrial use | β Metallized |
3920.62.00.50 |
PET Metallized Film, Specific Metallized PET Film Classification | Specific metallized PET film with defined structure | β Metallized |
3921.90.50.50 |
PET Plastic Scratch Resistant Protective Film, Polyester Material, Film Form | Non-self-adhesive protective film for surfaces | β Protective |
3921.90.40.90 |
PET Plastic Film, Polyester Material, Film Form | General non-adhesive PET film | β Basic Film |
3919.90.50.40 |
PET Plastic Scratch Resistant Protective Film, Self-Adhesive | Self-adhesive protective film (e.g., for glass/plastic screens) | β Self-Adhesive |
π Key Reminder:
- Metallized PET films (without strong adhesive properties) fall under Chapter 39, Heading 3920.
- Protective films (especially if self-adhesive) may fall under 3919 (Self-adhesive) or 3921 (Other plastic films).
- Scratch resistance is a functional attribute; classification depends on the primary material and form.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: 2025 November 10 onwards (for subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3920.62.00.20 ββ PET Metallized Film (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 4.2% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax | +25.0% (Under USITC Footnote for China) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Under 122 Section, US Trade Act) |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 3920.62.00.20 β Footnote: 9903.88.01 β Section 122: 10% |
π Explanation:
- The 4.2% base rate is the standard MFN rate for polyester films.
- The 25% USITC tax is part of the "Section 301" tariffs on Chinese goods.
- The 10% Section 122 tax is applied to certain plastic films and sheets.
- Total: 39.2%. This is a high tariff category; cost planning is essential.
π― 2. 3920.62.00.50 ββ PET Metallized Film (Specific Classification)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 4.2% |
| USITC Additional Tax | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 3920.62.00.50 β Footnote: 9903.88.01 β Section 122: 10% |
π Note:
- Same tax structure as3920.62.00.20.
- Applies to more specific metallized PET films with defined metallization thickness or application.
π― 3. 3921.90.50.50 ββ PET Plastic Scratch Resistant Protective Film (Non-Adhesive)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 4.8% |
| USITC Additional Tax | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 3921.90.50.50 β Footnote: 9903.88.01 β Section 122: 10% |
π Note:
- Slightly higher base rate (4.8%) due to "other plastic films" classification.
- Total rate is 39.8%, the highest among non-adhesive options.
π― 4. 3921.90.40.90 ββ PET Plastic Film (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 4.2% |
| USITC Additional Tax | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 3921.90.40.90 β Footnote: 9903.88.01 β Section 122: 10% |
π Note:
- General non-adhesive PET film.
- Same total rate as metallized films (39.2%), but may be easier to classify if metallization is minor.
π― 5. 3919.90.50.40 ββ PET Plastic Scratch Resistant Protective Film (Self-Adhesive)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 5.8% |
| USITC Additional Tax | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 3919.90.50.40 β Footnote: 9903.88.01 β Section 122: 10% |
π Note:
- Highest total rate (40.8%) due to higher base rate (5.8%) for self-adhesive films.
- Apply only if the film is self-adhesive (has glue backing).
- Misclassification here (e.g., declaring non-adhesive as self-adhesive) can lead to overpayment or penalties.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Missing Documents Are Not Allowed)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Includes material (PET), thickness, metallization process, scratch resistance rating |
| β Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | βοΈ | Confirms if the film is self-adhesive or non-adhesive |
| β Product Photos (Clear Label) | βοΈ | Shows metallized surface, edge, and any labeling |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | Scratch resistance test (e.g., Taber,ι η¬η‘¬εΊ¦), metallization thickness |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Specify roll dimensions, weight, and packing method |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | If applicable, for potential tariff reduction (but US has no FTA with China) |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Adhesive Check, Metallization Confirm, HS Code Precision, Tax Rate Saved!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Non-adhesive Metallized PET | 3920.62.00.20 or 3920.62.00.50 |
Declare as 3921 β Risk of penalty |
| Self-Adhesive Protective Film | 3919.90.50.40 |
Declare as 3921 β Tax underpayment/overpayment |
| General PET Film (No Metallization) | 3921.90.40.90 |
Declare as 3920 β Misclassification |
| Metallized Film with Light Adhesive | Analyze primary function β May be 3919 or 3920 |
Ambiguous declaration β Customs review delay |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Customized Film | Provide customer design specs + metallization process details |
| High-Reflectivity Metallized Film | Emphasize "metallized" feature β Use 3920 codes |
| Protective Film for Electronics | Provide test reports for scratch resistance β Use 3921.90.50.50 if non-adhesive |
| Self-Adhesive Film | Must declare as 3919.90.50.40 β Higher tax but accurate classification |
| Composite Films (PET + Other Layers) | Provide layer-by-layer analysis β May affect HS Code selection |
π V. Global Market Customs Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3920.62.00.20 |
39.2% (CN Origin) | None (Standard) | High tax due to Section 301 + 122 |
| π¨π³ China | 3920.62.00.20 |
4.2% | None | Base rate only |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3920.62.00.20 |
6.5% (Standard) | REACH, RoHS | No additional tariffs |
| π¬π§ UK | 3920.62.00.20 |
6.5% | UKCA, RoHS | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3920.62.00.20 |
6.0% | PSE (if electrical) | No additional tariffs |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for PET films due to Section 301 (25%) and Section 122 (10%) tariffs.
- EU and Japan have lower base rates and no additional US-style tariffs.
- China Origin in the US faces ~39-40% total tax, significantly impacting profit margins.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring self-adhesive film as non-adhesive (3921 instead of 3919)
π Consequence: Tax underpayment β Penalties + Back Taxes
β Mistake 2: Declaring metallized film as general plastic film (3921 instead of 3920)
π Consequence: Misclassification β Customs Review Delay or Rejection
β Mistake 3: Not specifying scratch resistance in documentation
π Consequence: Customs may classify as generic film β Wrong Tax Rate
β Mistake 4: Using "Protective Film" without clarifying adhesive status
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine 3919 vs 3921 β Holds
β Correct Practice:
"PET Metallized Scratch Resistant Film, 50mic, Non-Adhesive, Aluminum Coated, for Electronics Protection, Model XYZ, Test Report Attached"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time, Reduce Cost!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Adhesive? Check. Metallized? Confirm. HS Code Right, Tax Light!"
πΉ "3920 for Metallized, 3919 for Adhesive, 3921 for Other, Mix It Up, Youβre Through!"
π Pro Tip:
If your PET film is originating from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may apply for IEEPA Exemption under certain conditions, potentially reducing tariffs to 0%-5%.
π Recommendation: Apply for Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) to avoid clearance risks.
π£ Act Now:
π Contact Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Let your PET Film Clear Customs Smoothly, Export Efficiently, Profit Double!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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.