Rounded Square Beads
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7117191500 | 25.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7117196000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926903500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926903300 | 16.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Rounded Square Beads (Artificial Jewelry & Plastic Components)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Clearance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition and Classification: What Are "Rounded Square Beads"?
Rounded Square Beads are small, decorative elements typically made of base metals (plated or un-plated) or plastics. They are characterized by a square shape with softened, curved edges. In international trade, their classification depends heavily on material composition, usage, and form (strung vs. unstrung).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the beads are part of a finished jewelry item (like a necklace) and made of base metal, they may fall under Chapter 71 (Imitation Jewelry).
- If they are loose/unstrung and made of plastic, they fall under Chapter 39 (Articles of Plastics).
- If they are toy jewelry with a low value, special low-rate codes apply.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
| HS Code | Product Description | Material/Type | Key Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
7117.19.15.00 |
Imitation Jewelry: Rope, curb, cable, chain and similar articles produced in continuous lengths | Base Metal (Plated/Unplated) | Must be in continuous lengths (chains/ropes). Valued β€ $0.33/meter. |
7117.19.60.00 |
Imitation Jewelry: Toy jewelry valued not over 8 cents per piece | Any Base Metal | Must be classified as "Toy Jewelry". Value β€ $0.08/piece. |
3926.90.35.00 |
Other articles of plastics: Beads, bugles and spangles, not strung (except temporarily) | Plastic | Must be LOOSE/UNSTRUNG. Not set. |
3926.90.33.00 |
Other articles of plastics: Handbags | Plastic | Only applies if the beads are part of a plastic handbag or the item is a handbag. Note: This code is for handbags, not standalone beads. |
π Important Note on
3926.90.33.00:
The provided data links this code to "Handbags." Rounded square beads themselves do NOT belong here unless they are sold as part of a handbag. For loose plastic beads, use3926.90.35.00.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Data Source: Provided<DATA>snippet
π― 1. 7117.19.15.00 ββ Base Metal Imitation Jewelry (Continuous Lengths)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Surtax (Section 301/IEEPA) | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Low value, 0% rate) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:7117.19.15.00 β TAX:0.0% |
π Explanation:
- This code applies to base metal chains/ropes (which may include rounded square links) valued not over 33 cents per meter.
- Zero tax makes this highly attractive for low-cost bulk metal jewelry components.
π― 2. 7117.19.60.00 ββ Toy Jewelry (Base Metal)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Surtax (Section 301/IEEPA) | 7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Generally eligible under de minimis if β€ $800) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:7117.19.60.00 β TAX:7.5% |
π Explanation:
- Applies ONLY if the beads are marketed as "Toy Jewelry" and valued β€ $0.08 per piece.
- The 7.5% surtax is likely due to Section 301 duties on certain Chinese goods.
- Caution: Misclassifying adult jewelry as "toy jewelry" to save taxes can lead to penalties.
π― 3. 3926.90.35.00 ββ Plastic Beads (Unstrung)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Surtax (Section 301/IEEPA) | 7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 14.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 14.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Under $800) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:3926.90.35.00 β TAX:14.0% |
π Explanation:
- This is the correct code for loose, unstrung plastic beads (including rounded square shapes).
- The 14.0% total tax (6.5% base + 7.5% surtax) is significant.
- Condition: Must be NOT STRUNG. If strung into necklaces, they may fall under Chapter 71.
π― 4. 3926.90.33.00 ββ Plastic Handbags (NOT Beads)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Surtax | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 6.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 6.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:3926.90.33.00 β TAX:6.5% |
π WARNING:
- DO NOT USE THIS CODE FOR BEADS.
- This code is for handbags. Using it for beads is a misclassification error that can lead to seizure, fines, and back taxes.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Tips)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Must-Have Documents)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify material (Plastic vs. Base Metal), dimensions, and whether beads are strung or loose. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Rounded Square Beads, Plastic, Unstrung" or "Base Metal Imitation Jewelry Chain". |
| β Photos of Product | βοΈ | Show the shape (rounded square) and packaging (loose vs. strung). |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Critical for distinguishing between 3926 (Plastic) and 7117 (Metal). |
| β Value Declaration | βοΈ | For 7117.19.60.00, must prove value β€ $0.08/piece. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Metal Chains <33Β’/m β 0%; Toy Beads β€8Β’ β 7.5%; Loose Plastic β 14%; Strung Plastic? Check Ch. 71!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Tax Rate | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose Plastic Beads | 3926.90.35.00 |
14.0% | Low (if correctly declared as unstrung) |
| Strung Plastic Beads (Necklace) | 7117.90.00.00 (Not in data, but typical) |
Varies | High (Misclassification if declared as plastic beads) |
| Base Metal Chains (<$0.33/m) | 7117.19.15.00 |
0.0% | Low |
| Toy Beads (β€$0.08/pc) | 7117.19.60.00 |
7.5% | Medium (Must prove "toy" status) |
| Plastic Handbags | 3926.90.33.00 |
6.5% | HIGH RISK if used for beads |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Materials | If beads are plastic with metal plating, consult customs broker. Often classified under 7117 (imitation jewelry) if the metallic appearance is dominant. |
| Strung vs. Unstrung | This is the biggest trap. Strung beads are jewelry (7117). Loose beads are plastic articles (3926). Never declare strung beads as "unstrung beads." |
| Value Thresholds | For 7117.19.15.00, ensure the value per meter is clearly documented. For 7117.19.60.00, ensure the per-piece value is β€ $0.08. |
| OEM/Private Label | Provide design files or supplier invoices to prove material composition and value. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code for Plastic Beads | Tax Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.35.00 |
14.0% | Includes 7.5% Section 301 surtax. |
| π¨π³ China | 3926.90.90.00 |
Varies | Check latest China tariff schedule. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3926.90.97 |
Varies | Usually 4-6% + VAT. No surtax. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3926.90.97 |
Varies | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 3926.90.97.00 |
Varies | Check MFN vs. FTA rates. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA has the highest tax burden for plastic beads (14%) due to surtaxes.
- Metal jewelry chains (7117.19.15.00) are tax-free under the provided data, making them a cost-effective alternative if design allows.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring strung plastic beads as 3926.90.35.00 (unstrung plastic beads).
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify as imitation jewelry (7117), leading to higher taxes or delays.
β Error 2: Using 3926.90.33.00 (Handbags) for beads.
π Consequence: Severe misclassification. Potential fines, seizure, and legal action. Never use this code for beads.
β Error 3: Claiming "Toy Jewelry" (7117.19.60.00) for adult fashion beads.
π Consequence: If value > $0.08/piece or not intended for toys, youβll owe 7.5% back taxes + penalties.
β Error 4: Ignoring the "Continuous Length" condition for 7117.19.15.00.
π Consequence: If sold as individual pieces (not chains), this code is invalid.
β Correct Practice:
"Rounded Square Plastic Beads, Unstrung, 10mm, Matte Finish, 100g Bag"
"Base Metal Imitation Jewelry Chain, Silver-Plated, 33Β’/Meter, 10 Rolls"
π― 7. Conclusion: Precision Classification, Cost Optimization!
π― Remember Mnemonic:
πΉ "Loose Plastic = 14% (3926.35)"
πΉ "Metal Chains <33Β’ = 0% (7117.15)"
πΉ "Toy Beads β€8Β’ = 7.5% (7117.60)"
πΉ "Handbag Code = DO NOT USE FOR BEADS"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes, consider:
1. Switching to Metal Chains if design permits (0% tax).
2. Applying for an Advance Ruling from US Customs to confirm classification.
3. Optimizing Packaging to clearly show "Unstrung" status for plastic beads.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Licensed Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Verify Value Thresholds
π Ensure Smooth Clearance, Avoid Fines, Maximize Profit Margins!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent Counts β Get Your HS Code Right!
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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.