Polyvinylidene Chloride Granules
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3904500000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3904610010 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π§ͺ Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC) Granules β The "Iron Man" of Packaging
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Zero-Tariff Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What is PVDC?
Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC) is a high-performance polymer known for its exceptional barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and aromas. It is widely used in food packaging, pharmaceutical blister packs, and industrial protective films. In international trade, it is classified based on its chemical composition as a halogenated olefin polymer.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- PVDC vs. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): While both are halogenated, PVDC has a higher chlorine content and distinct physical properties (higher melting point, better barrier). They are not interchangeable in HS Code classification.
- Form Matters: The entry specified "Granules", which indicates the "primary form" (raw material for further processing), NOT finished films or sheets. This is critical for correct tariff assignment.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Based on the provided data, PVDC Granules fall squarely under Chapter 39: Plastics and Articles Thereof.
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Chemical Category |
|---|---|---|---|
3904.50.00.00 |
Polymers of vinyl chloride or of other halogenated olefins, in primary forms: Vinylidene chloride polymers | Raw material for extrusion, injection molding, or co-extrusion films | β Halogenated Olefin |
3904.61.00.10 |
Polymers of vinyl chloride or of other halogenated olefins, in primary forms: Fluoropolymers: Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Granular | High-temperature applications, non-stick coatings | β NOT APPLICABLE (This is PTFE, not PVDC) |
π Critical Analysis:
-3904.50.00.00is the correct HS Code for PVDC (Polyvinylidene Chloride) Granules.
-3904.61.00.10refers to PTFE (Teflon), a fluoropolymer. Do NOT confuse PVDC (Chlorine-based) with PTFE (Fluorine-based).
- Since the input is "Polyvinylidene Chloride Granules," it matches the description under3904.50.00.00.
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: 2025εΉ΄11ζ10ζ₯θ΅· (Including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3904.50.00.00 ββ Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC) Polymers, Primary Forms
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301/USITC) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff (China-specific) | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Low risk, low tax) |
| Legal Basis Path | 3904.50.00.00 β HS Tariff List β No Additional Footnotes Apply |
π Explanation:
- Zero Duty: PVDC granules currently enjoy a 0% total tariff rate for imports from China to the US.
- No Surcharges: Unlike electronics or some metals, PVDC is not subject to the 25% USITC surcharge or the 10% IEEPA surcharge.
- Cost Advantage: This makes PVDC a highly cost-effective raw material for packaging manufacturers importing into the US market.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC)" and "Granular Form". |
| β Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | βοΈ | Confirm melting point, density, and chlorine content to distinguish from PVC or PTFE. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "PVDC Granules, Primary Form, for Film Extrusion". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include gross/net weight, carton count. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To prove origin (China), though tariff is 0%, it may be needed for other regulatory checks. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Be Specific: PVDC, Not PVC; Granules, Not Film!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Raw PVDC Granules | 3904.50.00.00 β PVDC Polymers |
"Plastic Raw Material" (Too vague) |
| Finished PVDC Film | 3920.62.00.00 or similar (Film chapter) |
3904.50.00.00 (Wrong form) |
| PVC Granules | 3904.21.00.00 (PVC specific) |
3904.50.00.00 (Wrong polymer) |
| PTFE Granules | 3904.61.00.10 (Fluoropolymer) |
3904.50.00.00 (Wrong halogen) |
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Blended Resins | If PVDC is compounded with other polymers (e.g., EVA barrier layers), the classification may change. Declare the main polymer or seek a binding ruling. |
| Filled/Compounded PVDC | The HS Code 3904.50.00.00 generally covers "in primary forms," including filled or compounded grades. Ensure the description matches the statistical note (Note 1 to Chapter 39). |
| Customs Examination | Be prepared to provide a sample or lab report if customs questions the chemical composition (PVDC vs. PVC). |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3904.50.00.00 |
0% | FDA (for food contact), TSCA | Zero duty advantage |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3904.50 |
~0-5% | REACH Registration | High regulatory barrier |
| π¨π³ China | 3904.50 |
0% | N/A | Export origin, no import duty |
| π¬π§ UK | 3904.50 |
~0-5% | UK REACH | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3904.50 |
~0-6% | JITCO Standards | Strict purity standards |
π Conclusion:
- The US market offers the best tariff advantage (0%) for PVDC granules.
- EU/UK have higher regulatory hurdles (REACH) but low tariffs.
- China is the primary manufacturing base, exporting to these markets with minimal tariff friction.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring PVDC as "General Plastic Resin"
π Consequence: Customs may misclassify, leading to delays, audits, or incorrect duty assessments.
β Error 2: Confusing PVDC with PVC (3904.21.00.00)
π Consequence: While both may have 0% duty, misdeclaration is fraudulent. PVDC and PVC have different chemical properties and uses.
β Error 3: Declaring Finished Films as Granules
π Consequence: Wrong HS Code (3920 vs 3904). If films are declared as granules, itβs a clear violation. Ensure form (granules) matches description.
β Error 4: Ignoring "Primary Form" Requirement
π Consequence: HS Code 3904.50.00.00 applies to "primary forms." If the product is already made into sheets or bottles, it belongs in different chapters.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"PVDC RESIN GRANULES, POLYVINYLIDENE CHLORIDE HOMOPOLYMER, PRIMARY FORM, FOR FOOD PACKAGING FILM EXTRUSION, CHEMICAL FORMULA (C2H2Cl2)n"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time & Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "PVDC is Zero Duty, but be Specific!"
πΉ "Granules go to 3904.50, Films go elsewhere!"
πΉ "Donβt confuse Chlorine (PVDC/PVC) with Fluorine (PTFE)!"
π Pro Tip:
- Since the tariff is 0%, the main risk is misclassification leading to administrative penalties, not cost.
- Always maintain lab reports proving the chemical composition (PVDC) to quickly resolve any customs queries.
- For large volumes, consider applying for an Advance Ruling from US Customs to lock in the classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify with Lab: Confirm PVDC content > 50% (or as per local definition).
π Prepare Specs: Ensure TDS explicitly states "Vinylidene Chloride Polymer."
π Ship with Confidence: Enjoy 0% Duty clearance!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Cost Efficiency is Calculated Down to the Cent!
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.