Star Chart
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4905200000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4905906000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π Star Chart (Maps and Hydrographic or Similar Charts of All Kinds)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Star Chart"?
A Star Chart is a map of the night sky, representing constellations, stars, and other celestial objects. In international trade and customs classification, it falls under the broad category of printed maps and similar charts.
Unlike complex scientific astronomical instruments, a Star Chart is treated as a printed graphic. The key to its classification lies in its physical form:
- In Book Form: Multiple pages bound together (e.g., an atlas of stars, a pocket guide to constellations).
- Other (Wall Maps/Posters): Single sheets, folded maps, or posters intended for wall display.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If it is bound as a book (even if it contains only star maps) β It is classified under 4905.20.
- If it is a single sheet (folded or unfolded, wall map, or poster) β It is classified under 4905.90.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Physical Form |
|---|---|---|---|
4905.20.00.00 |
Maps of all kinds, in book form | Star atlas, bound star guide, pocket constellation book | β Bound/Book |
4905.90.60.00 |
Maps of all kinds, Other: Other | Wall-mounted star map, folded star chart, poster-style star chart | β Sheet/Poster |
π Critical Reminder:
- Do not confuse "Star Chart" with "Astronomical Instruments" (Chapter 90). A printed map is not an instrument.
- Even if the chart is used for navigation or education, if it is printed paper, it belongs to Chapter 49.
- Binding matters: If you sell a "Star Chart" that is a single large sheet, it is 4905.90.60.00, NOT4905.20.00.00.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 4905.20.00.00 ββ Star Charts, In Book Form
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301/IEEPA) | +7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (For China-origin goods under current enforcement) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:4905.20.00.00 β USITC:301_List3 β Total: 7.5% |
π Explanation:
- The basic tariff for printed maps is generally 0%.
- However, due to the Section 301 Trade Action (and related IEEPA provisions), China-origin printed materials often face an additional 7.5% tariff.
- Note: This 7.5% is a flat addition to the 0% base. The effective cost impact is solely this 7.5%.
π― 2. 4905.90.60.00 ββ Star Charts, Other (Wall Maps/Posters)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301/IEEPA) | +7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:4905.90.60.00 β USITC:301_List3 β Total: 7.5% |
π Note:
- Despite being a different subheading (sheet vs. book), the tariff rate is identical to the book form.
- Whether you import a bound star atlas or a folded star map, the total tax burden is 7.5% for China-origin goods.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Star Chart" or "Printed Map". Avoid vague terms like "Educational Material". |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the binding (if any). Crucial for distinguishing between 4905.20 and 4905.90. |
| β Detailed Description | βοΈ | Include material (paper), size, language, and whether it is bound. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Indicate quantity of books vs. sheets if mixed. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To confirm China origin and apply correct tariff schedule. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Mantra)
π₯ βBound is Book, Sheet is Wall, Both 7.5%, Donβt Get Caught!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Star Atlas (bound pages) | 4905.20.00.00 |
4905.90.60.00 |
Minor discrepancy, but correct is "Book". |
| Wall Poster Star Map | 4905.90.60.00 |
4905.20.00.00 |
Incorrect form declaration; may trigger inspection. |
| Folded Pocket Star Chart | 4905.90.60.00 |
4905.20.00.00 |
Not bound β Must be "Other". |
| Star Tracker Device (Electronics) | NOT 4905 | 4905.20.00.00 |
Major Error: Electronics go to Ch 85, not Ch 49. |
π Warning:
- If your "Star Chart" is an app on a USB drive or an electronic device, it is NOT Chapter 49. It may fall under 8523 (Digital recording media) or 8543 (Electrical apparatus).
- Only printed paper maps qualify for4905.
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipment (Books + Posters) | Split Declaration: Declare 4905.20.00.00 for books and 4905.90.60.00 for posters. Do not mix in one line item to avoid classification errors. |
| Digital Star Chart on Paper | If itβs a QR code leading to an app, the physical paper is still 4905. However, if the primary value is the digital access, customs may challenge the classification. Stick to "Printed Map" description. |
| Novelty Item (Glow-in-the-dark Star Stickers) | These are adhesives, not maps. They may fall under 3506 (Adhesives) or 4911 (Other printed matter). Do not use 4905. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4905.20.00.00 / 4905.90.60.00 |
7.5% (Total) | No special cert | Section 301 tax applies. |
| π¨π³ China | 4905.20.00.00 / 4905.90.60.00 |
0% - 6% (Import) | No special cert | Low import duty, no Section 301. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4905.99.00 (General) |
0% - 1.7% | CE (if tech-related) | Maps generally low duty. |
| π¬π§ UK | 4905.99.00 |
0% - 1.7% | No special cert | Post-Brexit tariff aligns with EU. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 4905.99.00 |
0% | No special cert | Zero duty for maps. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the only major market imposing the 7.5% additional tariff on printed maps from China.
- Other markets have minimal or zero tariffs, making them more cost-effective if you are diversifying supply chains.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying a USB drive with Star Chart App as 4905
π Consequence: Customs seizure or reclassification to 8523.49, potentially with different taxes.
π Fix: Declare as "Digital Data Storage Device" or "Software on USB".
β Error 2: Declaring a Folded Map as "Book Form"
π Consequence: Inspection delay. Customs may argue itβs not "bound".
π Fix: Use 4905.90.60.00 for any non-bound sheet, even if folded.
β Error 3: Using vague description like "Educational Poster"
π Consequence: Ambiguity leads to manual review.
π Fix: Use precise terms: "Printed Paper Star Chart, Wall Mountable, 20x30 inch".
β Correct Approach:
"Star Chart, Printed on Paper, Unbound, Wall Map Style, Model: SC-001"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Time & Money
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Paper Map = 4905, Bound = 20, Sheet = 90, Both 7.5% in US."
πΉ "No Electronics, No Glue, Just Print. Clear Customs with Ease."
π Pro Tip:
If you are exporting to the USA, ensure your commercial invoice explicitly states "Country of Origin: China" and "Product: Printed Star Chart" to align with the 7.5% tariff expectation. Avoid under-declaring or mislabeling as "Gift" to evade taxes, as this risks penalties.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Verify Product Form: Is it bound or a sheet?
π Choose Correct HS Code:4905.20.00.00or4905.90.60.00.
πΌ Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with the Right HS Code!
πΌ Every 7.5% Counts in Your Margin!
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.