Tattoo Equipment
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3213900000 | 38.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
ποΈ Tattoo Equipment (Tattooing Apparatus & Accessories)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Compliance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand βTattoo Equipmentβ?
Tattoo equipment refers to the mechanical, electrical, or handheld devices used to implant ink into the dermis of the skin for artistic, medical, or cosmetic purposes. In international trade, these items are primarily classified under Chapter 32 if they are consumable pigments, or Chapter 85/90 if they are the machinery itself.
However, based on the specific data provided in <DATA>, the classification focuses heavily on the consumable aspect (the colors/inks) or the equipment if it is considered a "modifying tint" or "amusement color" container, which is a common misclassification pitfall.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- Tattoo Machines (Needles, Grips, Power Supplies): Generally fall under 8508 (Electric apparatus) or 9018 (Medical instruments).
- Tattoo Ink/Pigment: Falls under 3213 (Artists', students', signboard painters' colors; modifying tints; amusement colors).Note on
<DATA>: The provided data specifically points to HS Code 3213.90.00.00. This indicates the classification is for Tattoo Inks/Pigments (in tablets, tubes, jars, bottles, pans, etc.), not the machines. The text explicitly mentions "Artists', students' or signboard painters' colors... and the like," which covers professional tattoo inks as "modifying tints" or "amusement colors" (in the broad trade sense of colored substances for application).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Items | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|
3213.90.00.00 |
Artists', students' or signboard painters' colors, modifying tints, amusement colors and the like, in tablets, tubes, jars, bottles, pans or in similar forms or packings: Other | Tattoo Inks, Pigments, Dyes, Colorants | Consumable Ink/Pigment |
π Important Clarification:
- The<DATA>input only provides information for HS Code 3213.90.00.00.
- This code does NOT cover tattoo machines, needles, grips, or power supplies.
- If you are importing machines, this HS code is INCORRECT and will cause customs delays. Machines usually fall under 8508.11.00.00 (Electric hand-held tools) or 9018.90.00.00 (Medical instruments).
- If you are importing inks/pigments, this HS code is CORRECT.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Analysis (Based on Provided Data)
β Applicable Data Source:
<DATA>
β HS Code:3213.90.00.00
β Product: Tattoo Inks/Pigments
π― 1. 3213.90.00.00 β Tattoo Inks & Pigments
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301/Other) | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| Policy Note | The provided data explicitly states: εΊη‘ε
³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε
³η¨: 0.0%. |
π Explanation:
- According to the provided<DATA>, there are no base tariffs and no additional surcharges for this specific HS code.
- This is highly favorable for tattoo ink importers, as many other chemical or cosmetic products face higher duties.
- Caution: This 0% rate is strictly for the ink/pigment described. Do not apply this to machines or accessories.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (For Tattoo Inks/Pigments - HS 3213)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Description | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Tattoo Ink," "Pigment," "Colorant," not just "Paint" or "Dye." |
| β Ingredients List (INCI) | βοΈ | Customs may check for prohibited substances (e.g., certain carcinogens). |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Required for chemical substances. |
| β Composition Statement | βοΈ | Confirm it is not classified as a "cosmetic" in the destination country if different rules apply. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Value must match the CIF value exactly. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Specify if packed in "tubes, jars, bottles, pans" as per HS 3213 definition. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Critical!)
π₯ "Ink vs. Machine: Separate Them!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Error to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Tattoo Ink in Tubes/Jars | 3213.90.00.00 |
Do not declare as "Chemical Products" (29th Chapter) without justification. |
| Tattoo Machine (Electric) | 8508.11.00.00 or 9018.90.00.00 |
Never declare a machine as 3213.90.00.00. This is a clear classification error. |
| Tattoo Needles | 8215.99.00.00 (Other tools) or 9018 |
Do not declare as ink accessories under 3213. |
| Mixed Shipment (Ink + Machine) | Split Declaration | Declare ink under 3213 and machine under its respective code. Do not blend. |
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Organic/Natural Inks | Still classified under 3213 if used for tattooing/artistic purposes. Provide proof of origin if seeking preferential treatment. |
| Medical Tattooing (Permanent Makeup) | May be classified under 3213 or 9018 depending on local regulations. Check destination country rules. |
| Bulk Ink (Drums) | Ensure the description matches "in similar forms or packings." Bulk industrial chemicals may fall under 3215 or 3204. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code for Ink | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3213.90.00.00 |
0% (Per provided data) | FDA (for cosmetics/permanent makeup) | Tattoo inks are regulated by FDA as cosmetics or drugs depending on claim. |
| π¨π³ China | 3213.90.00.00 |
~6-9% (Standard MFN) | None specific for import, but production requires license | Import tariffs may vary; check latest Chinese tariff book. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3213.90.00.00 |
0% | REACH Compliance | Strict REACH regulations for chemical substances. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3213.90.00.00 |
5% | TGA (if medical claim) | Check TGA classification for permanent makeup. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA offers 0% duty on tattoo inks under HS3213.90.00.00based on the provided data.
- Compliance is key: Ensure inks do not contain banned substances in the destination country (e.g., EU REACH, US FDA).
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
β Mistake 1: Declaring Tattoo Machines as 3213.90.00.00
π Consequence: Customs will reject the declaration, demand correct HS code (likely 8508/9018), and may impose penalties or delays.
β Mistake 2: Mixing Ink and Machines in One HS Code
π Consequence: Risk of misclassification. Always split the line items.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring Ingredient Regulations
π Consequence: Seizure of goods if inks contain prohibited dyes or heavy metals.
β Mistake 4: Using "Paint" or "Dye" Instead of "Tattoo Ink"
π Consequence: Ambiguity may lead to random inspection and higher duties if deemed a different chemical category.
β Correct Practice:
"Tattoo Ink, Organic, Red, 30ml Tube, For Artistic Tattooing, Non-Cosmetic Claim"
HS Code: 3213.90.00.00
π― VII. Conclusion: Accurate Classification Saves Time and Money
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Inks/Pigments β
3213.90.00.00β 0% Duty (Per provided data)
πΉ Machines/Accessories β NOT3213.90.00.00β Use 8508/9018/8215π Action Item:
- If importing inks, use3213.90.00.00for 0% tariff.
- If importing machines, do NOT use this code. Consult a customs broker for the correct machine classification.
- Always provide SDS and ingredient lists for ink shipments.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify if your shipment is ink or machine.
π Ensure documentation matches the product type.
π Avoid misclassification errors and enjoy the 0% duty on tattoo inks!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precision!
πΌ Every dollar in duty saved is profit earned!
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.