Photo Frame (White Card)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4820900000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
πΌοΈ Photo Frame (White Card) / Paper Stationery Articles
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Is "White Card"?
The term "White Card" in international trade typically refers to solid-colored paper or paperboard (often white cardstock, art paper, or cardboard) that lacks printed patterns or complex structural integration beyond basic paper goods. When this material is used to make Photo Frames, the classification depends heavily on whether the frame is considered a simple paper-based stationery item or a finished decorative good.
However, based strictly on the provided <DATA>, the product falls under Paper Stationery & Articles. This implies the photo frame is:
1. Made primarily of paper or paperboard.
2. Classified as a stationery-related article (similar to memorandum pads, notebooks, or decorative paper goods) rather than a plastic/metal wood frame.
3. Likely a flat-pack, disposable, or semi-rigid paper-based frame often used for crafts, temporary displays, or promotional materials.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the frame is made of plastic, wood, metal, or glass β It does NOT belong to HS Code4820.90.00.00.
- If the frame is 100% paper/paperboard and falls under the scope of "stationery" or "similar articles" β It belongs to4820.90.00.00.
- Key Point: The provided data limits us to HS Code 4820.90.00.00, so we assume the product is a Paper-based Photo Frame.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
| HS Code | Product Description | Material | Applicability |
|---|---|---|---|
4820.90.00.00 |
Other stationery articles, including binders, folders, blotting pads, etc. | Paper or Paperboard | β Yes (If made of paper/paperboard) |
π Explanation from Data:
- The description explicitly lists: "Registers, account books... binders... folders... other articles of stationery, of paper or paperboard; ... book covers ... of paper or paperboard."
- While "Photo Frame" is not explicitly named, paper-based photo frames are often grouped under "Other articles of stationery" or "Book covers/albums" if they serve a decorative or organizational purpose for paper items (like photos/cards).
- Note: If the frame is purely decorative and not "stationery," customs may reclassify it, but based on the provided data,4820.90.00.00is the only applicable code.
π° III. 2026 Tariff Rate Details (Based on Provided Data)
β Source Data:
- HS Code:4820.90.00.00
- Tax Detail: "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 0.0%"
- Total Tax: 0.0%
π― 1. 4820.90.00.00 ββ Paper Stationery Articles (Including Paper Photo Frames)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0 |
| Data Source | Provided JSON: "tax":{"tax_detail":"εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0%","total_tax":"0.0%"} |
π Explanation:
- According to the provided data, this specific HS code (4820.90.00.00) has no base tariff and no additional tariffs listed.
- This means the total customs duty is 0%, making it a highly cost-effective classification for clearance.
- Important: This 0% rate is specific to the data provided. Always verify with local customs as rates can vary by country (e.g., US, EU, China may have different MFN rates).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
β 1. Essential Documentation Checklist
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Description | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Paper Photo Frame, White Cardstock, Unprinted" |
| β Material Composition | βοΈ | Specify 100% Paper/Paperboard. Avoid terms like "plastic," "wood," or "metal." |
| β HS Code Declaration | βοΈ | Declare as 4820.90.00.00 with explanation: "Stationery article of paperboard" |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Unit price must be clear; total value for tax calculation (though 0% here) |
| β Photos of Product | βοΈ | Show that it is paper-based, not plastic or wood |
| β Binding/Assembly Info | βοΈ | If shipped flat-packed, mention it to prove itβs not a finished rigid frame |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Paper Frame, No Metal, No Plastic, Code 4820, Zero Tax!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Paper Photo Frame | 4820.90.00.00 (Paper Stationery) |
3926.90 (Plastics) β Higher Tax |
| Wood/Plastic Frame | NOT 4820 β Use 4414, 3926, etc. |
Misdeclaring as 4820 β Penalty |
| Mixed Material (Paper + Plastic Clip) | Declare principal material (Paper) | Split declaration β Delays |
β οΈ Warning:
- If your "White Card" frame has plastic corners, metal hinges, or glass inserts, it MAY NOT qualify for4820.90.00.00.
- Customs may reclassify it as3926.90(Plastic articles) or4414(Wood frames), which have different tax rates (often 0-5% base, but check local laws).
β 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Paper Frame with Glass Insert | May be reclassified as 7019 (Glass) or 4820 if glass is minor. Consult customs. |
| Paper Frame with LED Lights | Classified as 8513 (Lamps), not stationery. |
| Custom Printed Design | Still 4820.90.00.00 if paper-based. Printing doesnβt change HS code for paper goods. |
| Bulk Import for Craft Stores | Declare as "Stationery Articles" or "Craft Supplies" to justify 4820. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Base Tariff | Additional Tax | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| π¨π³ China (Import) | 4820.90.00.00 |
0% | 0% | As per provided data |
| πΊπΈ USA | 4820.10 or 4820.90 |
0-3% | Varies | Check US HTS for "Other" |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4820.90 |
0% | 0% | Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 4820.90 |
0% | 0% | Often duty-free for paper goods |
π Conclusion:
- China (as per data) charges 0%.
- USA may charge up to 3-5% depending on specific subheading.
- EU is generally 0% for paper stationery.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
β Mistake 1: Declaring a Plastic Photo Frame as 4820.90.00.00
π Consequence: Reclassification + Penalty + Back Taxes (Plastic tariffs can be higher).
β Mistake 2: Not specifying Material Composition
π Consequence: Customs may assume mixed materials and apply highest tariff rate.
β Mistake 3: Using "Photo Frame" without clarifying "Paper-Based"
π Consequence: Customs may classify as 4414 (Wood) or 7019 (Glass) if photos show rigid materials.
β Correct Declaration:
"Paper Photo Frame, White Cardstock, 4x6 inch, Flat Pack, HS Code: 4820.90.00.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Clear Classification, Zero Cost
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Paper Photo Frame β
4820.90.00.00β 0% Tax (As per provided data).
πΉ Non-Paper Frame β NOT 4820 β Use correct HS Code for Plastic/Wood/Glass.π Pro Tip:
If your product is 100% paper, ensure your commercial invoice and packing list explicitly state "Paper Material" and "No Plastic/Metal Components". This prevents customs doubts and ensures smooth clearance at 0% tax.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm material composition with supplier.
π Update HS Code to4820.90.00.00if 100% paper.
π Enjoy 0% Tax clearance for paper-based photo frames!
β¨ Precision in Classification = Savings in Customs Duty!
πΌ Your Paper Frame, Zero Duty, Happy Clearance!
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.