Party Decoration Balloon Box
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9505904000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6307909891 | 24.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9505906000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6307907500 | 14.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Party Decoration Balloon Box (Balloon Party Supplies)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Is a "Balloon Box"?
A "Party Decoration Balloon Box" is not a single uniform product in international trade. Its classification depends entirely on material composition, packaging structure, and intended use. In the US customs context, these items are generally categorized under Chapter 95 (Toys, Games, and Sports Equipment) or Chapter 63 (Other Made Up Articles), with significant implications for duty rates due to Section 301 and IEEPA tariffs.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- Rubber/Latex Balloons (Elastic, inflatable) β Typically fall under HS 9505 (Festive, Carnival, or Other Entertainment Articles).
- Plastic/Latex Balloons (Non-rigid, or defined as "other plastic articles") β May fall under HS 3926 (Other Plastic Articles).
- Textile/Film-Based Balloons (e.g., metallic foil, fabric balloons) β May fall under HS 6307 (Other Made Up Articles, including textiles or films).
- Complete Kits vs. Components: If the box contains accessories (tapes, pumps) but the main item is a balloon, the classification often hinges on the essential character of the contents.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Concordance)
Based on the provided data, here are the five possible HS codes and their corresponding tax implications for Chinese-origin goods importing into the US.
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
9505.90.40.00 |
Balloon Party Supplies | Specifically for party use; elastic/inflatable nature implied | Rubber or Plastic |
6307.90.98.91 |
Other Made Up Articles | Classified as a "finished article"; broad category for non-specific party goods | Rubber or Plastic |
9505.90.60.00 |
Festive/Party Entertainment Articles | Explicitly for festivals or party entertainment | Rubber or Plastic |
3926.90.99.89 |
Other Plastic Articles | Classified primarily by material (Plastic/Latex) rather than just use | Plastic / Latex |
6307.90.75.00 |
Other Made Up Articles (Textile/Film) | Made from textile or thin film materials (e.g., foil balloons) | Textile or Film |
π Critical Note:
- HS 9505 is generally the preferred classification for traditional latex/rubber balloons because they are considered "articles for fun or carnival."
- HS 3926 and HS 6307 often attract higher base tariffs because they are classified by material (Plastic/Textile) rather than purpose.
- Boxed Sets: If the box contains balloons + tape + pump, the US CBP may classify the entire set based on the essential character (the balloons). However, if the packaging itself is significant, it might trigger Chapter 63 codes.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Post-2025 (Current trade war tariffs apply)
π― 1. 9505.90.40.00 & 9505.90.60.00 ββ Festive/Party Balloons (Best Case)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (122ζ‘ζ¬Ύε ³η¨) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 10% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (Section 301/122 goods usually excluded from $800 de minimis if value > threshold, but specifically, these codes are NOT on the de minimis exclusion list if properly classified under 9505 with 0% base. However, note that IEEPA 10% may still apply. Crucially: If the goods are considered "Section 301" products, the $800 exemption is often voided. Check current CBP rulings on 9505.90. For this data, we assume standard tariff application. |
| Legal Basis | 122ζ‘ζ¬Ύε
³η¨: 10% |
π Explanation:
- These codes have 0% base tariff and 0% Section 301.
- The only additional cost is the 10% IEEPA/122 Tariff.
- This is the MOST COST-EFFECTIVE classification for rubber/plastic balloons.
π― 2. 6307.90.98.91 ββ Other Made Up Articles (High Risk)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 7.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 24.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 24.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 7.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 7.5%, 122ζ‘ζ¬Ύε
³η¨: 10% |
π Explanation:
- High base tariff (7%) + Section 301 (7.5%) + IEEPA (10%).
- Total 24.5% is more than double the 10% rate.
- Avoid this code if your product is clearly "Party Supplies."
π― 3. 3926.90.99.89 ββ Other Plastic Articles (Very High Risk)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 22.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 5.3%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 7.5%, 122ζ‘ζ¬Ύε
³η¨: 10% |
π Explanation:
- Classified as "Plastic Articles" rather than "Party Supplies."
- Total 22.8% is nearly 2.3x higher than the 9505 classification.
- Common error: Misclassifying latex balloons as "plastic toys" or "plastic articles."
π― 4. 6307.90.75.00 ββ Textile/Film Balloons (Medium Risk)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.3% |
| Section 301 Surtax | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 14.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 14.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 4.3%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0%, 122ζ‘ζ¬Ύε
³η¨: 10% |
π Explanation:
- Applies to foil balloons, metallic film balloons, or fabric balloons.
- Lower base tariff (4.3%) and no Section 301 (0%) make it cheaper than 6307.90.98.91 or 3926.90.99.89.
- Important: Do not use this for standard rubber balloons.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Document Preparation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify material (e.g., "Natural Latex," "Mylar Film," "TPU"). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the balloon, the box, and any accessories (tape, ribbon). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Balloon Party Supplies, HS 9505.90.40.00." Avoid vague terms like "Decorations." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail contents: Number of balloons, weight, accessories. |
| β Material Composition Statement | βοΈ | Crucial for distinguishing between 9505 (Rubber/Latex) and 3926/6307 (Plastic/Film). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Rules)
π₯ βClassify by Material & Use, Not Just Name!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Round/Balloon (Latex/Rubber) | 9505.90.40.00 / 9505.90.60.00 |
3926.90.99.89 |
Overpaying by ~12.8% |
| Foil/Metallic Balloon | 6307.90.75.00 |
6307.90.98.91 |
Overpaying by ~10.2% |
| Balloon Kit (with tape/pump) | 9505.90.40.00 (if balloons are essential character) |
Separate codes | Complicated customs inspection |
| Plastic Party Hats/Noisemakers | 9505.90.40.00 |
6307.90.98.91 |
Higher duties |
π Note on "Box": If the box is merely packaging, do not classify the entire shipment as a "Box" or "Container." Classify the contents.
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Balloons | Provide logo design files; ensure the material is explicitly stated as "Latex" or "Film." |
| Mixed Materials | If a box has both latex and foil balloons, consult a broker. CBP may separate them or assign the highest duty rate. |
| De Minimis ($800) | β οΈ Caution: Many Section 301/122 goods are excluded from the $800 de minimis exemption. Even if under $800, you may need to declare and pay duties. Verify current CBP policy. |
| Anti-Dumping | Check if your specific supplier or product type has anti-dumping duties. Balloons are generally not subject to AD/CVD, but plastic components might be. |
π 5. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Total Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9505.90.40.00 |
10.0% | Best rate. Avoid 3926/6307 (22-24%). |
| π¨π³ China | 9505.90.40.00 |
~5-7% | Standard import duty. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9505.00.90 |
0% - 4.7% | Generally low duties. No "122" equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9505.00.90 |
0% - 4.7% | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 9505.90.90 |
0% - 5% | CUSMA benefits may apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex market due to Section 301 and IEEPA 122 tariffs.
- Correct classification is critical to save 12-14% in duties.
- 9505.90.40.00/60.00 is the winner for rubber/plastic balloons.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying latex balloons as "Plastic Toys" (9503.00) or "Plastic Articles" (3926.90)
π Consequence: Tariff jumps from 10% to 22.8%.
π Fix: Emphasize "Festive/Party Use" and "Rubber/Latex Material."
β Error 2: Using "Party Supplies" as the HS Code description without specifying material
π Consequence: CBP may arbitrarily assign 6307.90.98.91 (24.5%).
π Fix: Be specific: "Latex Balloons for Party Decoration."
β Error 3: Ignoring the "122 Tariff" (IEEPA)
π Consequence: Underestimating total landed cost by 10%.
π Fix: Always add 10% to CIF value for Chinese origin goods under this data.
β Error 4: Misclassifying Foil Balloons as Latex
π Consequence: Foil balloons are not elastic rubber; they fall under 6307.90.75.00 (14.3%) or 6307.90.98.91 (24.5%).
π Fix: Clearly state "Foil/Mylar Film" in the description.
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Saving, Efficiency!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Latex/Rubber β 9505 (10%) | Foil/Film β 6307.75 (14.3%) | Plastic/Other β 3926/6307 (22-24%)"
πΉ "Don't let material confusion cost you 12% more!"
π Pro Tip:
If your balloon box contains accessories (pumps, tape), ensure the balloons are the essential character. If the box is primarily accessories, the classification might change. Always provide detailed product photos and material specs to your customs broker.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker
π Provide: Material Type (Latex/Film/Plastic), Use (Party/Festival), and Product Photos
π Get a Pre-Ruling (Advance Ruling) from US CBP to lock in the 10% rate!
β¨ Professional clearance starts with precise classification!
πΌ Every percentage point 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.