Polyethylene Stand Up Pouches
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3923210011 | 38.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3923210030 | 38.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
ποΈ Polyethylene Stand Up Pouches (Doypacks)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Stand-Up Pouches"?
Polyethylene Stand-Up Pouches, commonly known as "Doypacks," are flexible packaging solutions widely used for food, beverages, cosmetics, and household products. In international trade, they are classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof), specifically focusing on sacks and bags made of polymer materials.
The critical distinction lies in the closure mechanism and dimensions: * Reclosable Pouches: Feature an integral extruded closure (zipper) allowing multiple openings. * Non-Reclosable: Sealed once opened. * Size Constraints: For specific preferential or lower-tariff subheadings, the length of individual sides (excluding the gusset) may be restricted (e.g., β€75mm).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the pouch has a zipper/reclosable feature AND no single side exceeds 75 mm in length βε½η±» to 3923.21.00.11
- If the pouch has a zipper/reclosable feature BUT sides exceed 75 mm OR is non-reclosable βε½η±» to 3923.21.00.30
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the two relevant HS codes for Polyethylene Stand-Up Pouches:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
3923.21.00.11 |
Sacks and bags of polymers of ethylene; Reclosable, with integral extruded closure: With no single side exceeding 75 mm in length | Small-dimension reclosable pouches (e.g., sample packs, small condiment packets) | β
Reclosable β PE Material β Side Length β€ 75mm |
3923.21.00.30 |
Sacks and bags of polymers of ethylene; Reclosable, with integral extruded closure: Other | Standard large stand-up pouches (Doypacks) >75mm width/height OR non-reclosable PE bags | β
Reclosable (Other) β OR Non-Reclosable β PE Material |
π Critical Reminder:
- Material Matters: Both codes specify "Of polymers of ethylene". If your pouch is made of PP (Polypropylene) or mixed layers, the classification may shift to 3923.29 or 3923.30.
- Dimension is King: The 75 mm threshold is the deciding factor for code.11vs.30. Measure the longest side (excluding the bottom gusset depth, but including the front panel width). If any flat side exceeds 75mm, it defaults to.30.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Assumed based on tariff structure in data)
β Effective Date: Current applicable rates as per provided data
π― 1. 3923.21.00.11 ββ Reclosable PE Pouches (Small Size, β€75mm Side)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 3.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 28.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (Generally, goods subject to Section 301 tariffs do not qualify for Section 321 de minimis exemption if explicitly listed, though enforcement varies by carrier; check latest CBP guidance). |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3923.21.00.11 β USITC Footnote 9903.88.01 (Section 301) |
π Explanation:
- The 3.0% is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for plastic sacks/bags.
- The +25.0% is the Section 301 additional duty imposed on Chinese goods.
- Total Cost Impact: For every $10,000 CIF value, you pay $2,800 in duties alone.
π― 2. 3923.21.00.30 ββ Reclosable PE Pouches (Other Sizes) & Non-Reclosable Bags
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 3.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 28.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3923.21.00.30 β USITC Footnote 9903.88.01 (Section 301) |
π Note:
- The tariff rate is identical to.11(28% total).
- The difference lies in product classification accuracy. Misclassifying a large pouch (.30) as a small pouch (.11) to avoid scrutiny is risky if dimensions are verified.
- Non-reclosable PE bags also fall under this broader category if they don't meet the specific "reclosable" definition of other subheadings, or are simply "other" articles of packing.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Material (PE), Closure Type (Zipper/Heat Seal), Dimensions (Length/Width/Height). |
| β Technical Drawing | βοΈ | Show the 75mm measurement line clearly if claiming code .11. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Front, back, and closure mechanism close-up (to prove "reclosable"). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe as "Polyethylene Stand-Up Pouches, Reclosable, Zipper Seal". Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Bag". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Indicate if goods are packed in cartons or bulk rolls. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βZipper or Seal? Measure the Side! PE Material? Donβt Hide!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Pouch with Zipper, Width 60mm | 3923.21.00.11 |
Misdeclare as .30 β No penalty, but no benefit. |
| Pouch with Zipper, Width 100mm | 3923.21.00.30 |
Misdeclare as .11 β High Risk of Audit/Seizure. |
| Pouch without Zipper (Heat Seal) | 3923.21.00.30 (as "Other") |
Misdeclare as Reclosable β Fraud Risk. |
| Laminated Pouch (PET/PE) | Check Main Material | If PE is the outer layer or primary component, it may still be 3923. If PET is dominant, check 3923.29 or 3923.30. |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Biodegradable PE Pouches | Still 3923.21.xx if primarily polyethylene. Must provide biodegradability certification to avoid environmental compliance flags. |
| Printed Pouches | The printing does not change the HS code if the base material is PE. Ensure description includes "Printed Polyethylene Pouches". |
| Samples for Evaluation | If value is < $800, check if Section 321 (De Minimis) applies. Note: Section 301 goods are generally excluded from Section 321 exemption in many cases. Verify with CBP ruling. |
| Custom Shape (Not Standard Rectangle) | Measure the bounding box of the flat panel. If any side >75mm, use .30. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3923.21.00.30 (Most Common) |
28.0% (3% Base + 25% Surcharge) | FDA (if food contact), Prop 65 (if CA) | High duty burden. Ensure accurate dimension declaration. |
| π¨π³ China | 3923.21.00 |
5-7% | None | Import duties are lower than US export duties. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3923.21 |
0-2.5% (varies by exact subhead) | REACH, Food Contact Regulations | Lower tariffs, but strict chemical compliance (REACH). |
| π¬π§ UK | 3923.21 |
0% (Most Likely) | UKCA, Food Standards | Post-Brexit trade agreements may offer zero tariffs. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA imposes the highest barrier with 28%.
- EU/UK focus more on environmental/chemical compliance than tariffs.
- Dimension accuracy is the #1 reason for US customs delays.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons from Tears)
β Error 1: Measuring the Gusset Depth as the "Side Length".
π Consequence: Misclassifying a large pouch as .11 β Customs rejects, demands reclassification + penalties.
β
Fix: Measure only the front/back panel width/height, not the folded gusset.
β Error 2: Calling it "Plastic Bag" without specifying "Reclosable".
π Consequence: Customs may assign a higher duty rate or ask for clarification, causing delays.
β
Fix: Always specify "Reclosable with Integral Extruded Closure" or "Zipper Seal".
β Error 3: Ignoring Material Composition.
π Consequence: If the pouch is 50% PET/50% PE, it might not be 3923.21 (PE only). It could be 3923.29 (Other plastics) or 3923.30 (Sacs, bags, cones).
β
Fix: Check the outermost layer or primary structural material.
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Packaging, Precision in Profit!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Zipper? Check Size! β€75mm β .11, >75mm β .30"
πΉ "PE Material, 28% Tax! Declare Accurately, Stay Safe!"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing small samples (<$800 value) to the US, check if your carrier (e.g., USPS, FedEx, UPS) still accepts Section 321 for these items despite Section 301 tensions. Some carriers may self-identify and charge duties anyway.
For large commercial shipments, budget 28% duty into your landed cost calculation.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm pouch dimensions (max flat side) with your factory.
π Update your Commercial Invoice with "Polyethylene Reclosable Pouches".
π Clearance starts with accurate data!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every cent of tax counts. Get it right the first time!
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.