Red Packaging Film
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3921905050 | 39.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3921904090 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920200020 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3920620020 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Red Packaging Film (Gift Wrap & Decorative Foil)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Red Packaging Film"?
Red packaging film is primarily used for gift wrapping, decoration, and consumer goods protection in international trade. It falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof). The key distinction lies in whether the film is cellular (foamed), reinforced/laminated, or a simple flexible plastic sheet/foil.
β οΈ Key Classification Points:
- If it is a standard flexible plastic film/foil without cellular structure or reinforcement β Look at 3921.
- If it is polyester-based (PET) and metallized (shiny/metallic finish), it may fall under 3920 if non-cellular and unreinforced.
- "Gift Wrap" is a specific sub-category within certain polyester and propylene headings.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Mapping)
Based on the provided data, here are the four relevant HS codes for "Red Packaging Film":
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Total Tax Rate (US from CN) |
|---|---|---|---|
3921.90.50.50 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip, of plastics: Other: Other: Other Other | General-purpose plastic film, non-specific, non-cellular, non-reinforced | 29.8% |
3921.90.40.90 |
Other plates, sheets, film, foil, and strip, of plastics: Other: Other: Flexible Other | Flexible plastic film, often lighter gauge, decorative or simple wrapping | 0.0% |
3920.20.00.20 |
Non-cellular, non-reinforced plastic plates/sheets: Of polymers of propylene Gift wrap | Polypropylene (PP) base, specifically marketed as Gift Wrap | 29.2% |
3920.62.00.20 |
Non-cellular, non-reinforced plastic plates/sheets: Of polyesters: Of poly(ethylene terephthalate) Metallized PET film: Gift wrap | Polyester (PET) base, Metallized (shiny/foil effect), specifically Gift Wrap | 29.2% |
π Critical Distinction:
- Flexible vs. Rigid:3921.90.40.90is explicitly for "Flexible Other" films, which enjoy 0% tax. If your red film is a thin, bendable roll (like typical cellophane or thin PVC/PE), this is the most favorable code.
- Material Specificity: If the film is PET and metallized (common for shiny red gift wrap), it must be classified under3920.62.00.20, not3921.
- Propylene Gift Wrap: If it is PP-based gift wrap, it falls under3920.20.00.20.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current tariffs apply as per provided data
π― 1. 3921.90.50.50 β General Plastic Film (Other)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.8% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff | 29.8% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 29.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (Value > $800 threshold for de minimis) |
π Explanation:
This code is a catch-all for plastic films not specifically classified elsewhere. It carries the standard 301 additional tariff on top of the base rate.
π― 2. 3921.90.40.90 β Flexible Plastic Film (Other)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff | 0.0% |
| Calculation | $0 |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (But duty is 0 anyway!) |
π Explanation:
This is the most cost-effective classification for red packaging film if it qualifies as "Flexible Other."
- Criteria: Must be a thin, bendable film, not rigid sheets.
- Action: Ensure product description emphasizes "Flexible Film" rather than "Sheet" or "Plate."
π― 3. 3920.20.00.20 β Polypropylene (PP) Gift Wrap
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff | 29.2% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 29.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
Specifically for PP-based gift wrap. Higher base rate than3921.90.40.90, but lower than general plastic films.
π― 4. 3920.62.00.20 β Metallized PET Gift Wrap
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff | 29.2% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 29.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
For shiny, metallic-looking red film made of PET. Common in premium gift packaging. Same tax structure as PP gift wrap.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
β 1. Document Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify material (PP, PET, PVC, PE), thickness, and flexibility. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the film rolled, folded, and in use as "gift wrap." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clear description: e.g., "Flexible Red PET Film for Gift Wrapping" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions per roll/package. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | If applicable, to verify origin. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Flexible = 0%, PET/PP = 29.2%, General = 29.8%!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thin, bendable red film | 3921.90.40.90 |
3921.90.50.50 |
Overpay by 29.8% |
| Shiny, metallic red film | 3920.62.00.20 |
3921.90.50.50 |
Overpay by 0.6% + classification risk |
| PP-based gift wrap | 3920.20.00.20 |
3921.90.40.90 |
Under-declaration risk if material is PP |
| Rigid plastic sheet | 3921.90.50.50 |
3921.90.40.90 |
Misclassification penalty |
π Critical Note:
- If your product is not metallized and not specifically PP or PET gift wrap, and is flexible, argue for3921.90.40.90.
- If it is metallized PET, you must use3920.62.00.20. Do not try to classify metallized PET as general plastic film.
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Materials | If film is laminated with paper, it may fall under different codes. Check if it's "reinforced." |
| Cellular (Foamed) Film | If the film has bubbles/foam structure, it is not covered here. It falls under 3921.11.xx. |
| Reinforced/Laminated | If reinforced with paper, glass, or other materials, it is not 3920 or 3921 basic. |
| OEM/Custom Print | Printing does not change HS code. Still classified by material and form. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (from CN) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3921.90.40.90 (if flexible) |
0.0% | Best option! |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3920.62.00.20 (PET Gift Wrap) |
29.2% | For metallized/shiny film. |
| π¨π³ China | 3921.90.40.90 |
~4-6% | Lower import duties. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3921.90.40.90 |
~6-7% | No Section 301 equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3921.90.40.90 |
~6-7% | Post-Brexit tariff. |
π Conclusion:
- US Market: The 0.0% tariff for3921.90.40.90is a huge advantage. Ensure your product is clearly "flexible" and not metallized PET (if you want to avoid 29.2%).
- EU/UK/China: Tariffs are significantly lower, so classification between3921and3920matters less for cost, but still affects compliance.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Calling "Metallized PET Film" as "General Plastic Film"
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 3920.62.00.20 and charge 29.2% instead of 0%.
β Mistake 2: Declaring "Rigid Plastic Sheets" as "Flexible Film"
π Consequence: If the film bends easily, it's flexible. If it doesn't, it's not 3921.90.40.90. Misclassification leads to penalties.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring Material Composition
π Consequence: PP vs. PET vs. PVC changes the code. Always specify material on invoice.
β Mistake 4: Using "Cellophane" without Clarification
π Consequence: "Cellophane" is often regenerated cellulose (Chapter 37 or 3915), not plastic. If it's plastic-based cellophane, it's Chapter 39.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Flexible Red PET Film for Gift Wrapping, Non-Cellular, Non-Reinforced, Roll Form, 0.02mm Thickness"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Optimization!
π― Remember This Mantra:
πΉ "Flexible = 0%, PET/PP Gift Wrap = 29.2%, General = 29.8%!"
πΉ "Metallized PET is NOT General Plastic β it's 29.2%!"
πΉ "Flexible Rolls = 0% Tariff in US β Optimize Your Declaration!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is flexible and not specifically PP/PET gift wrap, fight for 3921.90.40.90 (0% tariff).
If it is shiny/metallic, expect 29.2% and ensure it's declared as 3920.62.00.20.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a customs broker to verify if your red film qualifies as "Flexible" under
3921.90.40.90.
π Save 29.8% in duties by choosing the right HS Code!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your every dollar saved in duties is pure profit!
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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.