Tea Ball Strainer
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3924104000 | 13.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6911108010 | 38.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6911900050 | 22.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7323999030 | 88.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7323930060 | 62.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
β Tea Ball Strainer: The Ultimate Classification & Clearance Guide (US Market 2026)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Strategy | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What is a "Tea Ball Strainer"?
A Tea Ball Strainer is a small, perforated kitchen tool used to hold loose-leaf tea, allowing water to flow through while containing the leaves. In international trade, its classification depends entirely on material composition. It falls primarily under Chapter 39 (Plastics), Chapter 69 (Ceramics), or Chapter 73 (Iron/Steel).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If made of Plastic: Classified under 3924.10.40.00.
- If made of Ceramic/Porcelain: Classified under 6911.10.80.10 or 6911.90.00.50.
- If made of Stainless Steel/Metal: Classified under 7323.99.90.30 or 7323.93.00.60.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Below are the specific HS Codes derived from the provided data, mapped to material types and usage.
| HS Code | Product Description | Material Inference | Usage/Category |
|---|---|---|---|
3924.10.40.00 |
Household articles of plastic, specifically tableware/cookware items | Plastic π§ͺ | Home goods, tableware, cookware attributes |
6911.10.80.10 |
Tableware of porcelain, specifically for filtering tea | Ceramic πΊ | Filter tea, classified as porcelain tableware |
6911.90.00.50 |
Other ceramic articles, kitchen/tea ware | Ceramic πΊ | Kitchen/Tea utensils, fits tableware category |
7323.99.90.30 |
Other iron/steel articles, tableware/kitchen utensils | Metal (General Steel) βοΈ | Filter tea, kitchen/tableware, includes steel/aluminum/copper surcharges |
7323.93.00.60 |
Stainless steel tableware, kitchen utensils | Stainless Steel π© | Kitchen utensils, specifically stainless steel classification |
π Important Note:
- Plastic is the cheapest category tax-wise.
- Ceramic varies by specific sub-category (porcelain vs. other ceramic).
- Metal/Steel carries the highest tariffs due to Section 301 and Section 232/122 clauses.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: Current tariffs apply including 122 Clause and 301 Section 232 additions.
π― 1. 3924.10.40.00 ββ Plastic Tableware/Cookware
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.4% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Clause | 10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 13.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 13.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Likely Eligible (if under $800, subject to current policy) |
| Legal Basis | Base Rate 3.4% + 122 Clause 10% |
π Explanation:
- This is the most cost-effective classification for plastic tea strainers.
- The "122 Clause" (often related to Section 301 exclusions or specific trade remedies) adds 10%.
- No additional 25% Section 301 applies here, keeping the rate low.
π― 2. 6911.10.80.10 ββ Porcelain Tableware (Tea Filter)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 20.8% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Clause | 10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β High risk of scrutiny due to high base rate |
| Legal Basis | Base Rate 20.8% + 301 7.5% + 122 10% |
π Explanation:
- Ceramic tableware has a high base tariff (20.8%).
- Added surcharges bring the total to 38.3%, making it significantly more expensive than plastic.
π― 3. 6911.90.00.50 ββ Other Ceramic Tableware/Kitchen Ware
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.4% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Clause | 10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 22.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.9% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Moderate (Lower base rate than porcelain) |
| Legal Basis | Base Rate 5.4% + 301 7.5% + 122 10% |
π Explanation:
- This code is for non-porcelain ceramic items.
- Lower base tariff (5.4%) makes it cheaper than porcelain (38.3%) but more expensive than plastic (13.4%).
π― 4. 7323.99.90.30 ββ Other Iron/Steel Tableware (General Metal)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.4% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 25.0% |
| Section 122 Clause | 10.0% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surcharge | 50.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 88.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 88.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β NOT Eligible (High risk) |
| Legal Basis | Base 3.4% + 301 25% + 122 10% + Steel Surcharge 50% |
π Critical Warning:
- This is the most expensive classification.
- The 50% Steel/Aluminum/Copper surcharge is applied on top of existing tariffs.
- Do not use this code unless absolutely necessary for specific alloy compositions not covered by stainless steel codes.
π― 5. 7323.93.00.60 ββ Stainless Steel Tableware
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 2.0% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Clause | 10.0% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Surcharge | 50.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 62.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 62.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β NOT Eligible |
| Legal Basis | Base 2.0% + 122 10% + Steel Surcharge 50% |
π Explanation:
- Stainless steel avoids the 25% Section 301 surcharge but still bears the 50% Steel Surcharge.
- Total rate is 62.0%, which is high but better than general steel (88.4%).
- Note: Stainless steel is often preferred for durability, but tariffs are punitive.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential for Clearance)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Spec Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state Material (Plastic/Ceramic/Stainless Steel) |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing perforations, handles, and material texture |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe as "Tea Strainer" + Material (e.g., "Stainless Steel Tea Ball") |
| β Material Certificate | βοΈ | For metal products, prove if it is "Stainless Steel" vs. "General Steel" to avoid 50% surcharge misclassification |
| β Customs Declaration Form | βοΈ | Accurate HS Code based on material |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Critical Keywords)
π₯ Golden Rule: "Material Defines Code, Not Just Function!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Strainer | "Plastic Tea Ball Strainer" | "Kitchen Tool" (Vague) | Risk of higher duty or rejection |
| Stainless Steel | "Stainless Steel Tea Infuser" | "Steel Strainer" (Generic) | May be misclassified as general steel (88.4%) |
| Ceramic | "Porcelain Tea Filter" | "Ceramic Kitchen Item" | Must specify if Porcelain (38.3%) or Other (22.9%) |
β 3. Special Handling for Steel Products
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| Stainless Steel vs. General Steel | Provide material composition reports. If itβs stainless, aim for 7323.93.00.60 (62.0%) instead of 7323.99.90.30 (88.4%). |
| Plastic Coated Metal | If plastic-coated, it may still be classified as metal. Consult a customs broker. |
| Set with Plastic Handle | If mixed material, the essential character determines classification. Usually, if the straining part is metal, itβs metal. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Update)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Tariff | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3924.10.40.00 (Plastic) |
13.4% | Best option. Steel is ~62-88%. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 7323.93.00.60 (Stainless) |
62.0% | High due to Steel Surcharge. |
| πͺπΊ EU | Various | Varies (0-6%) | No 50% Steel Surcharge. Generally cheaper for steel. |
| π¨π³ China | Various | 5-10% | No Section 301 or 122 Clause. |
π Conclusion:
- US Market: Plastic is the most tariff-efficient material.
- Steel: Be prepared for 62-88% tariffs. Consider sourcing from non-China origins if possible, or use plastic alternatives.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring stainless steel as "General Steel" without specifying
π Result: You might get hit with the 50% Steel Surcharge AND 25% Section 301 if misclassified. Always specify "Stainless Steel".
β Mistake 2: Using "Kitchen Tool" as a generic description
π Result: Customs may reclassify based on visual inspection, leading to penalties and delays. Be specific: "Tea Ball Strainer".
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the 122 Clause
π Result: Failing to account for the 10% 122 Clause in cost calculations leads to profit margin erosion.
β Correct Practice:
"Stainless Steel Tea Ball Strainer, Food Grade, For Kitchen Use, Model XYZ"
Use HS Code 7323.93.00.60 for the steel version, but expect 62.0% duty.
π― 7. Conclusion: Strategic Sourcing & Clearance
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Plastic (
3924.10.40.00) = 13.4% β Best for Cost
πΉ Ceramic (6911.10.80.10/6911.90.00.50) = 22.9% - 38.3% β οΈ Mid-Range
πΉ Stainless Steel (7323.93.00.60) = 62.0% β High Cost
πΉ General Steel (7323.99.90.30) = 88.4% π« Avoid
π Pro Tip:
If your product is Stainless Steel, consider:
1. Material Change: Switch to Plastic or Ceramic for US export.
2. Origin Change: Source from countries with free trade agreements (e.g., Mexico, Canada, ASEAN) to avoid US surcharges.
3. Pre-Ruling: Apply for an Advance Ruling from US Customs to confirm HS Code and avoid surprise duties.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your freight forwarder to verify the exact material composition.
π Calculate landed cost using the correct tariff (e.g., 62% for steel).
π Optimize supply chain to use Plastic for US-bound tea strainers to save ~50% in duties.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percentage Point Matters in Your Profit 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.