Plastic Frosted Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3919905060 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920511000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919905040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920991000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ Plastic Frosted Film (Matte Finish)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Plastic Frosted Film"?
Plastic Frosted Film refers to self-adhesive or non-adhesive plastic sheets/sheets with a matte (frosted) surface treatment. It is widely used in packaging, signage, window privacy, and industrial applications.
In international trade, classification depends on: 1. Form: Is it a self-adhesive roll or a non-adhesive sheet? 2. Material: Is it PVC, PET, PE, or another polymer? 3. Structure: Is it foam, reinforced, or a simple composite laminate?
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If it has an adhesive backing (ready to stick without glue) β Likely 3919
- If it is non-adhesive and made of polymers like PET/PVC β Likely 3920
- Surface Treatment: "Frosted/Matte" is a physical finish, not a chemical change, so it remains under plastic films.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Tariff Data from )
Based on the provided <DATA>, there are four main classifications for Plastic Frosted Films. Here is the detailed breakdown:
| HS Code | Summary Description | Key Characteristics | Total Tax Rate (China Origin) |
|---|---|---|---|
3919.90.50.60 |
Self-adhesive plastic film, frosted | Shape: Film Material: Plastic Feature: Fits self-adhesive plastic film characteristics |
40.8% |
3920.51.10.00 |
Polymer film (PET/PVC), non-foam, non-reinforced | Material: Polymers (e.g., PET, PVC) Shape: Film Type: Non-foam, un-reinforced plates/films |
41.0% |
3919.90.50.40 |
Self-adhesive plastic sheet/film, frosted | Shape: Film or Sheet Material: Plastic or Polymer Feature: Fits self-adhesive plastic plate/sheet characteristics |
40.8% |
3920.99.10.00 |
Non-cellular, non-reinforced composite laminate film | Material: Plastic Shape: Film or Sheet Type: Non-cellular structure, un-reinforced, composite laminate product |
41.0% |
π Critical Note:
- 3919 codes apply to self-adhesive films (you can peel and stick).
- 3920 codes apply to non-adhesive films (requires glue or heat for application).
- The difference in tax rate is minimal (0.2%), but misclassification can lead to customs delays.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current trade war tariffs (Section 301 & IEEPA) apply
π― 1. 3919.90.50.60 & 3919.90.50.40 ββ Self-Adhesive Frosted Films
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.8% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No (Not eligible for $800 de minimis) |
| Legal Path | Base Tariff β Section 301 (USITC) β Section 122 (IEEPA) |
π Explanation:
- The 25% Section 301 tariff is the standard penalty for Chinese plastic goods.
- The 10% Section 122 tariff is an additional national security/economic penalty applied to specific imports from China.
- Total burden: 40.8% is high. Cost control and accurate classification are critical.
π― 2. 3920.51.10.00 & 3920.99.10.00 ββ Non-Adhesive Polymer Films (PET/PVC)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 41.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No |
| Legal Path | Base Tariff β Section 301 (USITC) β Section 122 (IEEPA) |
π Explanation:
- Slightly higher base rate (6.0% vs 5.8%) leads to a 0.2% higher total tax (41.0% vs 40.8%).
- Applies to PET and PVC non-cellular, non-reinforced films.
- Common for industrial packaging or signage blanks.
π οΈ IV. Clearance Practical Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: Material (PET/PVC/PE), Thickness, Width, Adhesive vs. Non-Adhesive |
| β Photos | βοΈ | Show "frosted/matte" surface texture; show roll/sheet form |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Plastic Frosted Film" and HS Code |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include gross/net weight, dimensions |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | Required for Section 301 & 122 verification |
| β Declaration of Non-Foam | βοΈ | If using 3920.51.10.00, confirm it is non-foam |
β 2. Classification Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Adhesive = 3919, Non-Adhesive = 3920; Check Foam, Check Reinforcement!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Self-adhesive frosted roll (e.g., for labels) | 3919.90.50.60 or 3919.90.50.40 |
Misclassifying as 3920 β Delay + Penalty |
| Non-adhesive PET/PVC roll (for printing) | 3920.51.10.00 |
Misclassifying as 3919 β Rejection |
| Foamed (bubble) frosted film | Not listed in | Do NOT use 3920.51.10.00 (which is non-foam) |
| Reinforced (with mesh/glass fiber) | Not listed in | Do NOT use 3920.51.10.00 (which is non-reinforced) |
β 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Customized Film | Provide customer PO + design specs to prove itβs a standard plastic film, not a specialized chemical product |
| Composite Lamination | If multiple layers (e.g., PET + PE + Adhesive), ensure it fits "self-adhesive" (3919) or "non-cellular laminate" (3920.99.10.00) |
| Small Samples | Even small quantities are subject to 40.8%+ tariffs. De Minimis ($800) does NOT apply |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3919.90.50.60 or 3920.51.10.00 |
40.8% - 41.0% | High burden due to Sec 301 + Sec 122 |
| π¨π³ China | Same HS Codes | ~5-6% | No Section 301/122 in Chinaβs import tariff |
| πͺπΊ EU | Similar HS Codes | ~6.5% | No US-style surcharges |
| π¦πΊ Australia | Similar HS Codes | ~5% | Lower overall cost |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for Chinese plastic frosted films due to 40.8%+ total tax.
- Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand) if US market access is critical.
- Accurate classification between 3919 (adhesive) and 3920 (non-adhesive) is essential to avoid audits.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Blood Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Calling it "Plastic Sheet" without specifying adhesive vs. non-adhesive
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine 3919 vs. 3920 β Inspection delay
β Mistake 2: Classifying foamed (bubble) film under 3920.51.10.00
π Consequence: 3920.51.10.00 is for non-foam. Foamed films belong to different HS codes (e.g., 3921.xx). Incorrect declaration β Fine + Back taxes
β Mistake 3: Assuming small shipments are exempt from tariffs
π Consequence: De minimis ($800) is blocked for Chinese plastic films under Section 301/122. All shipments taxed.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Plastic Frosted Film, Self-Adhesive, PET Material, Non-Foam, Non-Reinforced, Roll Form, Width 30cm, Model XYZ"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Adhesive? 3919 (40.8%). Non-Adhesive? 3920 (41.0%). Foam? Check other codes."
πΉ "No de minimis for US imports from China. Plan for 41% tax!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is originating from Vietnam, Malaysia, or Thailand, you may avoid Section 301 tariffs. Ensure your Certificate of Origin is valid.
For US imports, consider Advance Ruling (CBP Pre-decision) to confirm HS Code before shipment.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker
π Provide product photos + spec sheet
π Clear your frosted films smoothly, control costs, and boost profits!
β¨ Professional customs clearance starts with precise classification!
πΌ Every cent of tax cost is worth calculating accurately!
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.