Tearable Security Label Paper
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4823908000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823906700 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823908680 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4821102000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3919102055 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π·οΈ Tearable Security Label Paper (ι²ζθ£ηΊΈζ ηΎ/ι²δΌͺζ ηΎ)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Compliance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What exactly is "Tearable Security Label Paper"?
"Tearable Security Label Paper" refers to specialized labeling materials designed to resist tearing during handling or removal, often incorporating security features (void effects, holograms, hidden text) to prevent counterfeiting. In international trade, its classification depends heavily on two factors:
1. Material Composition: Is it primarily Paper or Plastic/Film?
2. Surface Treatment: Is it coated/processed or plain/unprocessed?
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If made of Paper: Falls under Chapter 48 (Paper/Paperboard).
- If made of Plastic/Film: Falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof).
- Security Features: Do not change the HS code if they are printed on the base material; the base material dictates the classification.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Authorized Mapping)
Based on the provided data, here are the precise classifications for Tearable Security Label Paper:
| HS Code | Product Description | Material | Form | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4823.90.80.00 |
Tearable Paper Labels | Paper | Labels | Classified as "Other paper articles of a kind not specified or included elsewhere." |
4823.90.67.00 |
Coated/Processed Paper Labels | Paper | Coated/Processed | Classified as "Paper products coated or processed after printing." |
4823.90.86.80 |
Tearable Paper Labels (Unspecific) | Paper | Labels | Classified under "Other paper articles" not specifically named in other subheadings. |
4821.10.20.00 |
Anti-Counterfeit Labels | Paper (Inferred) | Labels | Classified under "Paper or paperboard labels." Assumes paper-based security labels. |
3919.10.20.55 |
Anti-Counterfeit Labels (Plastic) | Plastic/Film | Flat/Film | Classified under "Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics." |
π Critical Note:
- Paper vs. Plastic: If the label is printed on a plastic backing or made of synthetic film (PET, PP), it MUST be classified under3919.10.20.55.
- Security vs. Material: The term "Security" or "Anti-Counterfeit" describes the function, not the material. Customs classifies by material first. If it's paper, it stays in Chapter 48.
π° III. 2026 Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Ongoing (Current Trade Policy Enforced)
π― 1. Paper-Based Labels (HS Codes: 4823.90.80.00, 4823.90.67.00, 4823.90.86.80, 4821.10.20.00)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Most paper products have 0% MFN duty) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (Applied to Chinese-origin goods under USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific trade remedy tariff on certain paper products) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β NOT ELIGIBLE (deny_de_minimis). Section 301 tariffs do not apply to de minimis shipments ( <$800). |
| Legal Authority Path | USITC:4823.90/4821.10 β Footnote:9903.88.01 (Section 301) + Section 122 |
π Explanation:
- Even though the base duty is 0%, the 25% Section 301 tariff is the dominant cost driver.
- The 10% Section 122 tariff is an additional layer for specific paper categories.
- Total Cost Impact: For every $1,000 of goods, you pay $350 in tariffs alone.
π― 2. Plastic-Based Security Labels (HS Code: 3919.10.20.55)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% (Standard MFN duty for self-adhesive plastic films) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β NOT ELIGIBLE (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Authority Path | USITC:3919.10.20.55 β Footnote:9903.88.01 + Section 122 |
π Explanation:
- Plastic-based labels start with a 5.8% base, then hit the same surtaxes.
- This results in a higher total rate (40.8%) compared to paper-based labels (35.0%).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ Must | Clearly states material composition (Paper vs. PET/PP), adhesive type, and tear-proof mechanism. |
| HS Code Declaration Letter | βοΈ Must | Explains why the item is classified under Chapter 48 or 39. |
| Commercial Invoice | βοΈ Must | Must list "Tearable Security Label Paper" or "Anti-Counterfeit Labels" with unit price. |
| Packing List | βοΈ Must | Details weight and dimensions for volume duty calculation. |
| Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ Must | Proves Chinese origin (which triggers the 35-40% tariffs). If from Vietnam/Thailand, tariffs may drop significantly. |
| Photos of Product & Label | βοΈ Recommended | Visual proof of "tear-proof" and "security features" to avoid misclassification disputes. |
β 2. Classification Strategy & Tips
π₯ "Material First, Function Second: Paper is 35%, Plastic is 40.8%"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Risk if Misclassified |
|---|---|---|
| Paper Label with Void Effect | 4821.10.20.00 or 4823.90.xxxx |
If declared as plastic β 40.8% rate (overpayment) orζ΅·ε ³ζ₯ιͺ (inspection) delay. |
| Plastic/Film Label (PET) | 3919.10.20.55 |
If declared as paper β 35% rate (underpayment) β Heavy Fine & Back Taxes. |
| Coated Paper Label | 4823.90.67.00 |
If declared as plain paper β 4823.90.80.00 (similar rate, but incorrect description). |
β οΈ Warning:
- Do NOT use vague terms like "Stickers" or "Paper."
- Correct Description: "Self-adhesive security labels, made of [Paper/PET], with tear-proof feature, for [Product Name] packaging."
β 3. Special Situations & Solutions
| Situation | Solution |
|---|---|
| High Cost Pressure | Supply Chain Diversification: Source labels from Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia to avoid Section 301 (25%) and Section 122 (10%) tariffs. Tariffs may drop to 5.8% or 0% depending on FTA. |
| De Minimis Shipment (<$800) | β NOT EXEMPT. Section 301 tariffs apply to all Chinese goods, regardless of value. |
| Mixed Shipment (Paper + Plastic) | Separate Line Items: Declare paper and plastic separately. Do not bundle them under one HS code. |
| Customs Audit Defense | Provide Material Composition Certificates from the manufacturer proving % paper vs. % plastic. |
π V. Global Market Tariff Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4821.10.20.00 / 3919.10.20.55 |
35.0% (Paper) 40.8% (Plastic) |
High barriers. Section 301 + 122 apply. |
| π¨π³ China | 4821.10.20.00 |
5-7% | Low import duty. No surtaxes. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4823.90.90 / 3919.10.90 |
0-6.5% | No Section 301 equivalent. Lower risk. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 4823.90.90 / 3919.10.90 |
0-5% | CUSMA may allow duty-free for qualifying goods. |
| π¬π§ UK | 4823.90.90 / 3919.10.90 |
0-6.5% | Post-Brexit tariffs apply, but no US-style surtaxes. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to layered tariffs.
- EU/UK/Canada offer significant cost advantages. Consider transshipment or third-party manufacturing if shipping to the US.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Misclassifying Plastic Labels as Paper Labels
π Consequence: Underpayment of 5.8% base + penalties. Customs will audit and demand back taxes + interest.
β Error 2: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
π Consequence: Underestimating costs. The 10% add-on is often forgotten in initial quotes.
β Error 3: Assuming De Minimis Exemption
π Consequence: Small shipments (<$800) from China are NOT exempt from Section 301 tariffs. Expect delays and duties.
β Error 4: Vague Description "Labels"
π Consequence: CBP may assign a default HS code with higher duties or hold the shipment for inspection.
β Best Practice:
"Material + Form + Function":
"Self-adhesive Tearable Security Labels, 100% Paper Base, Void-Effect Print, 4821.10.20.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Savings, and Compliance
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Paper Labels: 35% Total Tax (0% Base + 25% Sec 301 + 10% Sec 122)
πΉ Plastic Labels: 40.8% Total Tax (5.8% Base + 25% Sec 301 + 10% Sec 122)
πΉ No De Minimis Exemption for China-origin goods.πΉ "Classify by Material, Not by Function!"
πΉ "35% vs 40.8%: A 5.8% Difference Matters at Scale."
πΉ "Avoid China for US Market: Consider Vietnam/Thailand to Save 25%+."
π Pro Tip:
If your volume is high, consider:
1. Advance Ruling: File a Binding Ruling Request with CBP to confirm the HS code.
2. Supply Chain Shift: Move label production to a Non-Chapter 48/39 Country (e.g., Vietnam) to eliminate Section 301 tariffs.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your Customs Broker: Provide material specs and request a Duty Savings Analysis.
π Optimize Your Landed Cost: Precision in HS codes can save thousands per container.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Tariff Is Profit Lost or Gained!
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.