PET Stretch Film
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π¦ PET Stretch Film (Polyester Stretch Wrap)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand βPET Stretch Filmβ?
PET Stretch Film, primarily composed of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), is a high-strength, tear-resistant plastic film used for palletizing, bundling, and protecting goods. Unlike standard PE (Polyethylene) stretch films, PET films offer superior tensile strength and puncture resistance.
In international trade, it is strictly categorized based on its form and material composition. The key distinction lies in whether it is in the form of "films" (flat rolls) or "ribbons/bands" (strapping materials).
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If it is a flat, continuous roll used for wrapping/stretching β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics), specifically HS 3920.
- If it is cut into narrow strips/ribbons for bundling/strapping (often called PET Strapping) β Classified under HS 3917 (Tubes/Pipes) or HS 3926 (Other Articles), but often misclassified as 3920 if sold as rolls.
- Note: Many traders confuse "Stretch Film" (wide roll) with "Strapping" (narrow band). This guide focuses on PET Stretch Film (wide roll format).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material/Form |
|---|---|---|---|
3920.62.00.00 |
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), flat, not otherwise specified | Standard PET Stretch Films, wide rolls, clear/opaque wrapping | β PET, Flat Roll |
3920.10.80.90 |
Other Plastics, Plates, Sheets, Film... | If mixed with other polymers or non-PET base | β Not pure PET |
3921.90.40.00 |
Other Plastics Plates, Sheets... | Laminated PET films (with adhesive or other layers) | β Composite/Laminated |
3917.21.00.00 |
Tubes, Pipes & Hoses (Non-rigid) | If sold as PET Strapping/Straps (narrow bands) | β Wrong for Stretch Film |
3926.90.90.90 |
Other Articles of Plastics | If PET film is cut into specific shapes/disposable items | β Not for rolls |
π Key Reminder:
- PET Stretch Film is almost exclusively classified under3920.62.00.00(if pure PET) or3920.69.00.00(if other polyester).
- Do not confuse with3920.10(which often covers PE films). PET is distinct due to its chemical structure (terephthalate).
- If the film is self-adhesive (tape-like), it may fall under 3919, but standard stretch film is not adhesive by default.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (inclusive of subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3920.62.00.00 ββ Polyethylene Terephthalate, Flat, Not Elsewhere Specified
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% (from USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10% (for China/HK products, effective from Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Tax Rate | 45% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 45% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Authority Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3920.62.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- The 25% USITC surcharge is part of the Section 301 tariffs on Chinese plastics.
- The 10% IEEPA surcharge is the new additional tariff under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
- Total 45% is extremely high for a commodity like stretch film, significantly impacting profit margins.
π― 2. 3920.69.00.00 ββ Other Polyester Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 45% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 45% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Available |
| Legal Authority Path | IEEPA:9901.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3920.69.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- If the PET film contains additives or is not "plain" PET, it may fall under3920.69.
- The tariff impact is identical to3920.62.
π οΈ IV. Practical Customs Clearance Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (No Exceptions)
| Document | Mandatory | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Spec Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: Material (100% PET or Blend), Thickness (microns), Width, Length, Weight |
| β Structure Diagram | βοΈ | Show if it's single-layer or multi-layer laminated |
| β Product Photos (Labeled) | βοΈ | Clear view of the roll, label, and any warnings |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | FDA (if food contact), REACH, RoHS |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description: "PET Stretch Film, Roll, Non-Adhesive, for Industrial Packaging" |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Critical for proving CN origin to apply surcharges |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Indicate net/gross weight, dimensions, and number of rolls |
β 2. Declaration Techniques (Critical Mantra)
π₯ "Declare Material, Declare Form, Declare Use!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration Method | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Pure PET Stretch Film | 3920.62.00.00 |
Misclassifying as PE (3920.10) β Audit Risk |
| Laminated PET Film | 3921.90.40.00 |
Calling it "Pure PET" β Customs Dispute |
| PET Strapping (Bands) | 3917.21.00.00 (Check specific ruling) |
Calling it "Stretch Film" β Wrong Code |
| Self-Adhesive PET Tape | 3919.10.00.00 |
Calling it "Stretch Film" β Wrong Code |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Colors | Provide color codes and Pantone references to avoid "generic" classification issues |
| Food Contact Grade | Must explicitly state "FDA Compliant" on invoice; may require additional documentation |
| Mixed Container | If mixed with PE film, declare separately. Mixed HS codes can lead to delays |
| Reprocessed/Recycled PET | If made from recycled material, declare as "Recycled" to avoid quality disputes |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3920.62.00.00 |
45% (CN Origin) | FDA + REACH | High tariff burden |
| π¨π³ China | 3920.62.00.00 |
0% | None | Free trade for imports |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3920.62.00.00 |
6.5% (MFN) | REACH + CE | No additional surcharges |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3920.62.00.00 |
5% | RCM | Moderate tariff |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3920.62.00.00 |
0% - 3.8% | PSE (if electrical parts) | Low tariff for plastics |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most challenging market due to the 45% combined tariff.
- EU and Japan are more favorable, but REACH/CE compliance is strict.
- Consider supply chain shifts to Vietnam or Malaysia for US exports to avoid IEEPA/301 surcharges.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons from Tears)
β Mistake 1: Declaring PET Stretch Film as "PE Stretch Film"
π Consequence: HS Code change from 3920.62 to 3920.10. While PE may have similar rates, the material mismatch can lead to false declaration penalties and cargo seizure.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring "Laminated" Status
π Consequence: If the film is laminated (e.g., PET/PE), it falls under 3921, not 3920. Misclassification leads to incorrect duty assessment.
β Mistake 3: Confusing "Stretch Film" with "Strapping"
π Consequence: PET Strapping (3917) and Stretch Film (3920) have different HS codes. Wrong code causes customs hold and re-inspection.
β Mistake 4: Missing FDA Documentation for Food-Grade Film
π Consequence: CBP may refuse entry if the film is intended for food packaging but lacks FDA compliance proof.
β Correct Practice:
"Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Stretch Film, Roll, Clear, 23 Micron, 500mm Width, 1000m Length, Non-Adhesive, For Industrial Palletizing, FDA Compliant, Made in China"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification, Efficiency in Clearance!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "PET is not PE, Stretch Film is not Strapping!"
πΉ "Check Lamination, Check Material, Avoid the 45% Trap!"
πΉ "HS Code Dictates Duty, Documentation Saves Days!"
π Pro Tip:
If your PET Stretch Film is originating from Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may be eligible for IEEPA Exemptions (0%~5% tariff).
Recommend pre-ruling (Advance Ruling) with CBP to confirm the exact HS Code and avoid post-clearance audits.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Pre-ruling
π Let your PET Stretch Film clear smoothly, reduce costs, and maximize profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Cost is Worth 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.