Polyethylene Polymer Plastic Cable Sheeting
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3921190010 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921904090 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8544190000 | 38.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8544499000 | 38.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3917320010 | 38.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π Polyethylene Polymer Plastic Cable Sheeting (PE Cable Sheathing)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Cable Sheeting"?
Polyethylene (PE) Polymer Plastic Cable Sheeting is a critical insulation and protective material used in electrical wiring and fiber optic cables. In international trade, its classification hinges on three key factors: 1. Material: Polyethylene (PE) vs. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). 2. Form: Sheet/Film vs. Tubing/Hose. 3. Function: General-purpose plastic sheet vs. Specific cable insulation/sheathing component.
β οΈ Key Distinction Points: - If it is a general plastic sheet/film made of PE, regardless of origin, it falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics). - If it is specifically identified as a component for electrical cables (insulation or sheathing), it may fall under Chapter 85 (Electrical Machinery). - PVC vs. PE: PVC items have different HS codes (8544.49 or 3917.32) compared to PE items (3921.19 or 8544.19). Do not mix them!
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material/Form | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
3921.19.00.10 |
Polyethylene polymer plastic cable sheathing sheet, material PE, form sheet, fits plate/film/sheet classification | General PE plastic sheets used for cable manufacturing | PE / Sheet | β General Plastic Sheet |
3921.90.40.90 |
Polyethylene polymer plastic cable sheathing sheet, material PE, classified as flexible plastic material | Flexible PE plastic films/sheets | PE / Flexible Sheet | β Other Plastic Plates/Sheets |
8544.19.00.00 |
Polyethylene polymer plastic cable sheathing sheet, material PE, fits cable insulation/sheathing functional attribute | Specific cable insulation material | PE / Cable Component | β Cable Insulation/Sheathing |
8544.49.90.00 |
PVC Electric Wire and Cable Sheathing, material PVC, part of insulated electrical conductor | PVC cable jacketing | PVC / Cable Component | β PVC Cable Specific |
3917.32.00.10 |
PVC Electric Wire and Cable Sheathing, material PVC, form tubing/sheathing, fits non-reinforced logic | Non-reinforced PVC hoses/tubes for cables | PVC / Tube | β PVC Tubing |
π Critical Reminder: - PE vs. PVC: Items made of Polyethylene (PE) use codes starting with
3921or8544.19. Items made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) use codes starting with8544.49or3917.32. Do not confuse the material! - Form Factor: "Sheeting" (flat sheets) typically points to3921. "Tubing/Hose" points to3917. "Cable Component" (specifically for insulation) may point to8544.19. - Function vs. Material: If the item is strictly a "cable component" with specific insulation properties,8544.19is often preferred. If it is a general plastic sheet used for cables,3921is applicable.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Ongoing (Includes subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3921.19.00.10 ββ Polyethylene Plastic Sheet (General/Plate/Film)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122/EO) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3921.19.00.10 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Explanation: - This code classifies PE plastic sheets. While it starts with a higher base rate (6.5%), the total burden is dominated by the 25% Section 301 tariff and 10% IEEPA surcharge. - Total 41.5% is a significant cost driver. Ensure the product description clearly states "Polyethylene Sheet" to avoid being misclassified as a generic "plastic film" which might have different base rates but similar surtaxes.
π― 2. 3921.90.40.90 ββ Other Plastic Plates, Sheets, etc. (Flexible)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 39.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3921.90.40.90 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Note: - Slightly lower total rate (39.2%) compared to
3921.19.00.10. - Applicable if the PE sheet is classified under "Other" plastic plates/sheets (e.g., specific flexible forms not covered by 3921.19). - Crucial: Verify with your customs broker if your specific PE film fits the "flexible" criteria under 3921.90 vs. the "plate/sheet" criteria under 3921.19.
π― 3. 8544.19.00.00 ββ Polyethylene Cable Insulation/Sheathing
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.9% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:8544.19.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Key Advantage: - This is the lowest total tariff (38.9%) among PE options. - Condition: Must be specifically identified as cable insulation or sheathing made of polyethylene. General PE sheets used for cables may be misclassified here if they lack specific cable-grade certification. - Recommendation: If your product is specifically engineered for cable insulation, this is the optimal code.
π― 4. 8544.49.90.00 ββ PVC Cable Insulation/Sheathing (Note: PVC, Not PE)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.9% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:8544.49.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Warning: - This code is for PVC, NOT Polyethylene! - If your product is PE, DO NOT USE THIS CODE. Misclassification of material (PE vs. PVC) is a common customs violation leading to fines and seizure. - Only use if the sheathing is explicitly Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).
π― 5. 3917.32.00.10 ββ PVC Tubing/Hose for Cables (Note: PVC, Not PE)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.1% |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3917.32.00.10 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Warning: - This code is for PVC Tubing, NOT PE Sheets. - Lowest tariff (38.1%) but only applies to PVC products in tubular form. - Do not use for PE products.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (All Documents Required)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Material (PE or PVC), Form (Sheet/Film/Tube), Application (Cable Insulation/Sheathing). |
| β Material Test Report | βοΈ | Certify Polyethylene (PE) vs. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). This is the most critical factor for HS Code selection. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show texture, thickness, and any branding. Differentiate between "Sheet" and "Tube". |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Polyethylene Plastic Cable Sheathing Sheet" or "PVC Cable Jacketing". Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Film". |
| β Bill of Lading | βοΈ | Ensure packaging matches description (e.g., "Rolls of PE Sheet" vs. "Bundles of PVC Tube"). |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | For proving Chinese origin (to confirm applicability of Section 301 & IEEPA surtaxes). |
β 2. Declaration Tactics (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βMaterial First, Form Second, Function Third!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| PE Sheet used for Cable | 3921.19.00.10 or 8544.19.00.00 (if specifically insulated) |
Misclassifying as 8544.49 (PVC) β Seizure & Fine |
| PVC Tube for Cable | 3917.32.00.10 or 8544.49.90.00 |
Calling it "PE Tube" β Incorrect HS Code |
| General PE Film (not cable specific) | 3921.19.00.10 |
Trying to force it into 8544 β Rejection |
| Mixed Materials (PE + PVC Layer) | Declare based on Principal Material or Essential Character | Splitting declaration incorrectly β Complexity Delay |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Sheathing | Provide customerβs design specs proving it is specifically for cable insulation to support 8544.19 (if PE) or 8544.49 (if PVC). |
| PE Sheeting with Additives | If additives change the material properties significantly, get a customs ruling to confirm if it remains "PE" under HS Code. |
| Dual-Use (Cable & Non-Cable) | If used for both, declare as General Plastic Sheet (3921) to avoid disputes over "cable component" status. |
| Small Samples (De Minimis) | β No Exemption: All HS Codes listed have deny_de_minimis. Small shipments are still subject to 38-41% tariffs. |
π V. Global Main Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code (PE) | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8544.19.00.00 (Best) or 3921.19.00.10 |
38.9% or 41.5% (incl. Surtaxes) | FCC (if cable component), RoHS | High Surtax Applies |
| π¨π³ China | 3921.19.00.10 |
6.5% (Base) | CCC (if applicable) | No US-style surtaxes |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3921.19 (Plastic Sheets) |
0% - 6.5% (Depending on Origin) | REACH, RoHS | No Section 301/IEEPA surtaxes |
| π¬π§ UK | 3921.19 |
0% - 6.5% | UKCA, REACH | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3921.19 |
5% - 10% | RCM, ACMA | No high US-style surtaxes |
π Conclusion: - USA is the only market with punitive 301/IEEPA surtaxes (25% + 10%). - PE Products in the US: Best to use
8544.19.00.00(38.9%) if it qualifies as cable insulation, saving 0.3-2.6% compared to general sheets. - PVC Products in the US:3917.32.00.10offers the lowest rate (38.1%) but only for PVC tubing.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned the Hard Way)
β Error 1: Confusing PE (Polyethylene) with PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
π Consequence: Using 8544.49 (PVC) for PE goods β Misclassification, Fines, Seizure.
β Error 2: Declaring "Plastic Sheeting" without specifying Material. π Consequence: Customs may assign a higher default tariff or request excessive documentation β Delay.
β Error 3: Trying to use "De Minimis" ($800 exemption) for small PE/PVC samples. π Consequence: Denied. All listed HS codes are subject to surtaxes and deny de minimis. Taxes will be charged.
β Error 4: Using 8544.19 for general PE film not intended for cables.
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 3921.19 (41.5%) if "cable function" is not proven β Unexpected Tariff Increase.
β Correct Approach:
"Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Cable Insulation Sheet, 0.5mm Thickness, For Electrical Wiring, Not Reinforced, Model XYZ"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "PE vs. PVC, Check Twice!"
πΉ "Sheet vs. Tube, Form Defines!"
πΉ "Cable Function, 8544 is King (38.9%)!"
πΉ "General Sheet, 3921 is Safe (41.5%)!"
πΉ "PVC Tube, 3917 is Cheapest (38.1%)!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is PVC Tubing, use 3917.32.00.10 (38.1%) for the lowest rate.
If your product is PE Cable Sheathing, use 8544.19.00.00 (38.9%) for the lowest rate.
If your product is PE General Sheet, use 3921.19.00.10 (41.5%).
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Material Test Reports + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Let your cable sheathing clear customs smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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.