Plastic Bubble Board (Industrial)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3921110000 | 40.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921190090 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𧱠Plastic Bubble Board (Industrial) β Cellular Polystyrene Sheets
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What is "Industrial Plastic Bubble Board"?
"Plastic Bubble Board" in an industrial context typically refers to Cellular Plastics, specifically expanded or extruded sheets. These are lightweight, rigid, or semi-rigid materials used for packaging, insulation, cushioning, or structural reinforcement.
The classification depends heavily on the polymer type and whether it is cellular (containing gas bubbles/pores):
- Polymers of Styrene (PS): Commonly known as EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or XPS (Extruded Polystyrene). These are the most common "bubble boards" for insulation and packaging.
- Other Plastics: Includes PVC foam boards, PETG cellular sheets, or polyolefin foams.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the product is made of Styrene polymers (white, lightweight, often used for insulation/packaging) β HS 3921.11
- If the product is made of Other Plastics (colored, rigid, different chemical composition) β HS 3921.19
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Alignment)
Based on the provided data, here are the precise classifications for "Plastic Bubble Board (Industrial)":
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material Type |
|---|---|---|---|
3921.11.00.00 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics: Cellular: Of polymers of styrene | EPS insulation boards, Styrofoam packaging blocks, XPS thermal insulation | β Polymers of Styrene |
3921.19.00.90 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, of plastics: Cellular: Of other plastics Other | PVC foam boards, PET cellular sheets, Polyolefin foams | β Other Plastics |
π Key Reminder:
- Do not confuse with non-cellular plates: If the board is solid (no air bubbles/voids), it falls under different subheadings (e.g., 3920 or 3925).
- "Industrial" Context: Even if used for heavy-duty packaging or construction, if it is cellular plastic, it remains in Chapter 39, Heading 3921.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Current applicable rates (Subject to ongoing trade policy)
π― 1. 3921.11.00.00 ββ Cellular Polymers of Styrene
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable (Section 321 de minimis may apply for shipments under $800, but formal entry still requires correct HS) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3921.11.00.00 β USITC Tariff Schedule |
π Explanation:
- Cellular polystyrene (EPS/XPS) currently enjoys a 0% tariff rate for imports from China into the US.
- Unlike electronics or steel, plastic foam products have not been subjected to the high Section 301 or IEEPA surtaxes.
- This makes them a low-cost import category compared to other plastic goods.
π― 2. 3921.19.00.90 ββ Cellular Plastics (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable (Standard customs entry required) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3921.19.00.90 β USITC Tariff Schedule |
π Note:
- Whether the plastic is styrene or "other" (e.g., PVC foam), the total tax rate is 0%.
- This is a significant cost advantage for industrial plastic foam imports.
- Ensure the material composition is accurately declared to avoid misclassification penalties.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Field Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Cellular Plastic Board," material type (Styrene/Other), dimensions, and HS Code. |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Include density, thickness, and cell structure (to prove it is "cellular"). |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | If applicable for non-US origin, though tax is 0%, CO may be needed for other regulatory purposes. |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | βοΈ | Required for transport compliance (flammability class of polystyrene). |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail palletization to ensure safe handling (bubble board is lightweight but bulky). |
| β FCC/CPSC Documentation | βοΈ | If the board is colored or contains additives, ensure no restricted substances (e.g., halogenated flame retardants) violate US laws. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Be Cellular, Be Clear, Tax is Zero But Compliance is Key!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| EPS/XPS Board | "Cellular Plastic Sheets, Polymers of Styrene, HS 3921.11.00.00" | "Plastic Foam" (Too vague) |
| PVC Foam Board | "Cellular Plastic Sheets, Other Plastics, HS 3921.19.00.90" | "Plastic Sheet" (May be misclassified as non-cellular) |
| Bulk Shipment | Declare total volume and weight accurately | Under-declaring volume to reduce freight costs (leads to penalties) |
| Recycled Content | If >20% recycled, note it for potential green incentives | Mislabeling as virgin material |
β 3. Special Situations
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Fire-Retardant Grades | If treated with flame retardants, ensure compliance with NFPA 286 (US building code) if used in construction. |
| Food Contact | If the bubble board is used for food packaging, ensure it meets FDA 21 CFR requirements. |
| Customs Valuation | Since tax is 0%, customs may focus on valuation accuracy. Ensure CIF price reflects true market value to avoid audit flags. |
| Anti-Dumping | Check for any specific anti-dumping duties on polystyrene from your specific supplier. Currently, no AD/CVD on general cellular polystyrene sheets for most origins, but verify case-by-case. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3921.11.00.00 / 3921.19.00.90 |
0% | FDA (if food contact), CPSC | 0% tax rate is a major advantage. |
| π¨π³ China | 3921.11.00.00 / 3921.19.00.90 |
0-6% | CCC (if applicable), GB Standards | Domestic production also benefits from low tariffs. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3921.11 / 3921.19 |
0-6.5% | REACH, RoHS | Strict chemical regulations apply. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3921.11 / 3921.19 |
0-6.5% | UK REACH | Post-Brexit rules align with EU for plastics. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3921.11 / 3921.19 |
0-5.3% | JIS Standards | No significant surtaxes on plastic foam. |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers the simplest clearance: 0% tax, minimal surtaxes.
- Key Risk: Misclassification as "non-cellular" or "other plastic goods" could trigger unrelated duties.
- Documentation is Key: Since tax is low, customs may scrutinize volume declarations and origin proof more closely.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Plastic Sheet" without specifying "Cellular"
π Consequence: May be misclassified under 3920 (non-cellular) β Higher duty (e.g., 5.7%) + potential penalties.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Fire Retardant Chemicals
π Consequence: Violation of CPSC or EPA regulations β Product seizure, fines.
β Mistake 3: Under-declaring Volume (Bulkiness)
π Consequence: Freight cost manipulation β Customs audit, detention, and demurrage fees.
β Mistake 4: Confusing with "Plastic Films" (3920/3921 films)
π Consequence: If the board is rigid (thickness > 1mm), it is not film. Misclassification leads to wrong duty rates.
β Correct Approach:
"Cellular Polystyrene Boards, White, 50mm Thickness, Used for Insulation, HS 3921.11.00.00, Non-Halogenated"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Zero Duty, Maximum Efficiency
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Cellular is Key, Styrene or Other, Tax is Zero, Docs Must Be Clear!"
πΉ "HS Code 3921.11/19, No Surcharge, Focus on Volume and Fire Safety!"
π Pro Tip:
- For shipments under $800, consider Section 321 De Minimis clearance (if eligible), which simplifies entry further.
- Always request a pre-ruling from CBP if your product has unusual additives or dimensions.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your freight forwarder + Provide Product Photos + Confirm Material Composition (Styrene vs. Other)
π Ensure 0% Duty compliance with accurate HS Code declaration!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Bottom Line: 0% Tax, Full Compliance!
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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.