Photographic Plates and Films
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3702100060 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3702310100 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ Photographic Plates and Films (Sensitized, Unexposed Rolls)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know "Photographic Film"?
Photographic film is a transparent plastic base coated with light-sensitive emulsion. In international trade, it is strictly categorized by material, sensitivity status, and application. The key distinction lies in whether it is made of paper/textile (excluded here) or other materials (plastic, polyester, etc.), and its specific use (e.g., X-ray vs. Color Photography).
β οΈ Key Distinction Points:
- X-Ray Film: Specialized for medical or industrial radiography. Requires precise HS Code3702.10.
- Color Photography Film: General consumer or professional imaging. Requires specific width criteria (β€105mm) and classification3702.31.
- Unexposed Only: Must be sensitized but not yet exposed to light. Exposed film falls under completely different categories.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Match)
Based on the provided data, here are the exact HS Codes and their corresponding tax treatments.
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
3702.10.00.60 |
X-Ray Film: Photographic film in rolls, sensitized, unexposed, of any material other than paper, paperboard or textiles | Medical diagnostics, industrial non-destructive testing | Specific to X-ray use |
3702.31.01.00 |
Color Film: Other film, without perforations, of a width not exceeding 105 mm: For color photography (polychrome) | Consumer photography, professional color printing | Width β€105mm, No Perforations, Color |
π Important Note:
- The provided data indicates zero tariffs for both categories under the specified tax regime.
- Classification depends strictly on the physical dimensions (width) and chemical composition/use (X-ray vs. Color).
- "Other material" excludes paper-based films, which are classified elsewhere (e.g., Chapter 49).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Detailed Tax Clauses)
β Applicable Countries: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Data Source: Provided Dataset (Validated for these specific codes)
π― 1. 3702.10.00.60 ββ X-Ray Film (Sensitized, Unexposed, Other Materials)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Photographic film in rolls, sensitized, unexposed |
| Specific Use | For X-ray |
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | Base: 0.0%, Additional: 0.0% |
| Legal Basis | HS 3702.10.00.60 |
π Explanation:
- X-ray films are often subject to specific regulatory scrutiny due to medical/industrial safety standards, but the tariff burden is currently zero for this specific subheading in the provided data.
- Ensure the film is explicitly marked or packaged as "X-Ray" to qualify for this code. Misclassification as general photographic film could lead to delays.
π― 2. 3702.31.01.00 ββ Color Photography Film (Width β€105mm, No Perforations)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Other film, without perforations, width β€105 mm |
| Specific Use | For color photography (polychrome) |
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | Base: 0.0%, Additional: 0.0% |
| Legal Basis | HS 3702.31.01.00 |
π Explanation:
- Width Constraint: The film must not exceed 105 mm in width. Wider color films fall under different subheadings (e.g., 3702.39 or 3702.54).
- Perforation Status: The film must be non-perforated. Perforated film for motion pictures is classified differently.
- Color Only: This code is exclusive to color (polychrome) film. Black-and-white films are excluded.
π οΈ IV. Clearance Practical Advice (Practical Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Width (mm), Sensitized/Unexposed, Base Material (Polyester/Cellulose Acetate) |
| β Composition Certificate | βοΈ | Confirm material is not paper, paperboard, or textiles |
| β Intended Use Declaration | βοΈ | Explicitly state: "For X-Ray Use" OR "For Color Photography" |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe: "Unexposed, Sensitized Photographic Film Rolls" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Indicate number of rolls and total length |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Required for chemical emulsion handling |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Critical Rules)
π₯ "Width Matters, Perforation Counts, Use Defines Code!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| X-Ray Film (Rolls, Plastic Base) | 3702.10.00.60 |
3702.31.01.00 |
Customs may reject; delay for re-classification |
| Color Film (β€105mm, No Holes) | 3702.31.01.00 |
3702.39.00.00 |
Potential tax discrepancy if rates differ for wider/perforated films |
| Perforated Color Film (Cinema) | Not Listed in Data | 3702.31.01.00 |
High Risk: Different HS Code required; 0% may not apply |
| Wide Format Color Film (>105mm) | Not Listed in Data | 3702.31.01.00 |
High Risk: Falls under other subheadings; verify tax separately |
| Paper-Based Photographic Paper | Excluded | Any 3702 Code | Chapter 49; Different Tax Rules Apply |
β 3. Special Cases & Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Rolls (X-Ray + Color) | Do not mix in one HS Code declaration. Separate by use and code. |
| Empty Rolls vs. Sensitized | Must be Sensitized & Unexposed. Empty plastic rolls are classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics). |
| Black-and-White Film | Not covered by 3702.31.01.00. Check other 3702 subheadings (e.g., 3702.42/53). |
| Custom Size Films | If width >105mm for color, consult updated 2026 tariff for non-perforated wide films. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Overview)
| Region | Recommended HS Code (Based on Data) | Tariff Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ United States | 3702.10.00.60 / 3702.31.01.00 |
0.0% | Zero tax for these specific subheadings |
| π¨π³ China (Export) | Same HS Codes | Varies | Check import duties of destination country |
| πͺπΊ European Union | 3702.10 / 3702.31 | Varies | EU often applies 0-6.5% for photographic film; verify local CN codes |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3702.10 / 3702.31 | Varies | Japan has specific rules for photographic materials; check FTAs |
π Conclusion:
- The provided data shows 0% tariffs for these specific X-ray and narrow-width color films.
- However, physical attributes (width, perforation, material) are critical. Minor deviations can shift the HS Code and potentially increase taxes or trigger regulatory checks.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring Perforated Film under 3702.31.01.00
π Consequence: Incorrect classification. Perforated film is for motion pictures and has a different HS Code.
π Fix: Ensure description explicitly states "Without Perforations".
β Error 2: Declaring Wide Format Film (>105mm) under 3702.31.01.00
π Consequence: Classification error. Wide films fall under other subheadings.
π Fix: Measure width accurately. If >105mm, verify the correct HS Code and tax rate.
β Error 3: Confusing Photographic Paper with Photographic Film
π Consequence: Paper is not "film of any material other than paper." It belongs to Chapter 49.
π Fix: Confirm the base material is plastic/polyester. If it's paper, use Chapter 49 codes.
β Error 4: Using Exposed Film
π Consequence: Exposed film is a "used" good and may be classified differently (e.g., waste or recycled material).
π Fix: Always declare as "Unexposed".
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Unexposed, Sensitized Polyester Photographic Film Rolls, Width 100mm, Non-Perforated, For Color Photography Only."
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Costs!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Width β€105mm? No Perforations? Color? β 3702.31.01.00 (0% Tax)"
πΉ "X-Ray Use? Plastic Base? β 3702.10.00.60 (0% Tax)"
πΉ "Wrong Width or Perforated? β Different Code, Possible Tax Risk!"
π Pro Tip:
If your film is wider than 105mm or perforated, do not assume the 0% rate applies. Consult the latest 2026 US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheadings like 3702.39 or 3702.54, as tax implications may differ.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify film width and perforation status before shipment.
π Ensure "Unexposed" and "Sensitized" are clearly stated on all commercial documents.
π Smooth Clearance Starts with Accurate HS Codes!
β¨ Professional Customs Compliance
πΌ Your Supply Chain, Optimized!
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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.