Toothbrush Cover
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9603298090 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9603298010 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926904800 | 13.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4202321000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4202324000 | 41.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
πͺ₯ Toothbrush Covers (Protective Caps for Personal Care)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know What a "Toothbrush Cover" Is?
A Toothbrush Cover is a protective accessory designed to fit over the head of a toothbrush (or other personal hygiene brushes like nail/eyelash brushes) to prevent contamination, breakage of bristles, or cross-contination during storage and travel.
In international trade, these items are not classified as "containers" (like bags or boxes) but as parts/accessories of brushes or general plastic articles, depending on their specific material and construction.
β οΈ Key Classification Distinction:
- If the cover is specifically shaped for a toothbrush and considered an integral part/accessory of the brush itself β It falls under Headings 96.03 (Brushes).
- If the cover is a general-purpose plastic sheath, or considered a separate consumer good not integral to the brush's function β It may fall under Chapter 39 (Plastics).
- Crucial Note: US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) often scrutinizes "covers" to ensure they are not misclassified as "travel cases" (Chapter 42) to avoid higher tariffs or different regulatory requirements.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
Based on the provided <DATA>, here are the relevant HS Codes for toothbrush covers and related brush accessories:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
9603.29.80.90 |
Toothbrushes, shaving brushes, hair brushes, nail brushes... Other: Valued over 40Β’ each (Other) | Toothbrush covers valued over $0.40 each, not specifically hairbrushes. | Classified under Headings 96.03 (Brushes). Treated as an "other" article of brush-making or brush accessory. |
9603.29.80.10 |
Toothbrushes, shaving brushes, hair brushes, nail brushes... Other: Valued over 40Β’ each - Hairbrushes | Toothbrush covers specifically designed as hairbrushes (rare) or if misclassified as such. | β οΈ Note: This code is for Hairbrushes. A standard toothbrush cover would NOT fit here unless it is part of a hairbrush product line. For toothbrushes, 9603.29.80.90 is the primary candidate. |
3926.90.99.89 |
Other articles of plastics... Other: Other | Toothbrush covers made of plastic, valued over $0.40, but considered general plastic articles (not integral brush parts). | Some importers may argue for this if the cover is a standalone, generic plastic item. High risk of misclassification if intended specifically for toothbrushes. |
3926.90.48.00 |
Other articles of plastics... Photo albums | β Not Applicable. This is for photo albums. | Do not use. |
4202.32.10.00 |
Trunks, suitcases... Articles normally carried in pocket/handbag: With outer surface of sheeting of plastics: Of reinforced or laminated plastics | Toothbrush travel cases or zippered pouches made of laminated plastic. | β οΈ Risk: If the product is a hard case or soft pouch holding multiple items, it may be classified here. However, simple individual caps are usually not "articles of a kind normally carried in the handbag" as a primary function. |
4202.32.40.00 |
Trunks, suitcases... Articles normally carried in the pocket/handbag... With outer surface of textile materials: Of cotton | Toothbrush covers made of textile/fabric. | If the cover is a cloth pouch or fabric sleeve, it may fall here. But a simple plastic cap would not. |
π Key Clarification:
- Simple Plastic Caps (e.g., snap-on covers) are most commonly classified under9603.29.80.90as accessories to brushes.
- Travel Cases/Toiletry Bags holding toothbrushes are classified under4202.32.10.00or4202.32.40.00.
- Generic Plastic Sheaths (not toothbrush-specific) might be classified under3926.90.99.89, but this is risky for toothbrush-specific items.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025 November 10 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9603.29.80.90 ββ Toothbrushes/Brush Accessories (Valued > 40Β’)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0.0% (As per <DATA>, no additional tariff listed for this specific subheading) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (if value < $800, though brushes may have specific restrictions, generally low risk) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:9603.29.80.90 |
π Interpretation:
- The<DATA>explicitly states "εΊη‘ε ³η¨: 0.0%, ε εΎε ³η¨: 0.0%" for9603.29.80.90.
- This is a highly favorable tariff rate.
- Warning: Ensure the product is correctly classified as a brush accessory and not a "plastic good" or "container" to maintain this 0% rate. Misclassification to3926.90.99.89or4202.32.10.00could result in 5.3% - 12.8% tariffs.
π― 2. 3926.90.99.89 ββ Other Plastic Articles (If misclassified)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 7.5% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 12.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 12.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (if Section 301 applies to de minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3926.90.99.89 β Section 301: 7.5% |
π Interpretation:
- If CBP determines the toothbrush cover is a general plastic article rather than a brush accessory, this rate applies.
- 12.8% is significantly higher than the 0% rate for9603.29.80.90.
- Action: Always argue for9603.29.80.90with strong product descriptions and images showing it is a brush-specific cover.
π― 3. 4202.32.10.00 ββ Plastic Outer Surface Containers (If classified as a case)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0 |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:4202.32.10.00 |
π Interpretation:
- If the product is a travel case or pouch (not a simple cap), it may still be 0%.
- However, this classification requires the product to be an "article of a kind normally carried in the pocket or in the handbag." Simple toothbrush caps do not fit this description well.
- Risk: Lower risk of tariff, but higher risk of incorrect classification if it's a simple cap.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Do Not Skip)
| Document | Mandatory? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Toothbrush Cover," Material (e.g., PP Plastic), Size, Intended Use (Protective Cap for Toothbrush). |
| β High-Resolution Photos | βοΈ | Show the cover on a toothbrush to prove it is a brush accessory. Show it without a toothbrush to show it is not a standalone container. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Use precise description: "Plastic Toothbrush Protective Cap" or "Brush Accessory: Toothbrush Cover." Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Part." |
| β HS Code Justification | βοΈ | Include a brief explanation if value is high or if audited: "Product is a specific accessory for toothbrushes, classified under Heading 96.03 as part of a brush set/accessory." |
| β Packaging List | βοΈ | Indicate if sold as a set (e.g., 10 caps per box) or individually. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Cap for Brush, Not Case, Not General Plastic!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple snap-on cap | 9603.29.80.90 - "Toothbrush Cover" |
"Plastic Storage Box" | β 12.8% Tariff + Misclassification Penalty |
| Cloth pouch for toothbrush | 4202.32.40.00 - "Toiletry Bag" |
"Toothbrush Cover" | β οΈ May be rejected if not a "handbag article" |
| Hard travel case | 4202.32.10.00 - "Plastic Outer Surface Case" |
"Toothbrush Cap" | β Over-declaration (wrong type) |
| Individual plastic cap | 9603.29.80.90 |
"Plastic Accessory" | β Low Risk if description is clear |
π Critical Advice:
- Avoid the term "Case" or "Container" for simple caps. Use "Cover," "Cap," or "Shield."
- If the product is a set (e.g., 10 caps in a box), declare the box as the unit if it's a retail package, but ensure the HS code reflects the content (brush accessories).
- Value Matters: If the unit price is under 40Β’, it may fall under different subheadings (e.g.,9603.29.40.00- "Toothbrushes, valued 40Β’ or less"). Ensure your commercial invoice reflects the actual unit value.
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Colors/Logos | Provide proof that the product is specifically designed for toothbrushes (e.g., mold design, diameter matches standard toothbrushes). |
| Silicone Covers | Still classified under 9603.29.80.90 if they are brush accessories. Silicone is a type of plastic/rubber, but the function dictates the heading. |
| Set with Toothbrush | If sold as a set (toothbrush + cover), the essential character is the toothbrush. Classify the entire set under the toothbrush HS code (likely 9603.29.80.90 or 9603.29.40.00 depending on value). |
| Travel Kit with Multiple Items | If it includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and cover, classify based on the principal item (toothbrush). |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9603.29.80.90 |
0.0% | FDA (if food-contact), CPSIA (if for kids) | Ensure it's not misclassified as 3926.90.99.89 (12.8%). |
| π¨π³ China | 9603.29.90.00 |
0% - 5% | None | Similar classification logic. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9603.29.00 |
0% - 2.5% | CE (if applicable) | Generally low tariffs for brushes. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9603.29.00 |
0% - 2.5% | UKCA (if applicable) | Post-Brexit rules similar to EU. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 9603.29.00 |
5% - 10% | None | Standard import declaration. |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers the best tariff rate (0%) for correctly classified toothbrush covers under9603.29.80.90.
- EU/UK/Australia also offer low tariffs, but certification requirements (FDA, CPSIA) may be stricter for personal care items.
- Misclassification is the biggest risk in the US market, potentially increasing costs by 12.8%.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring "Plastic Cover" without specifying Toothbrush.
π Consequence: CBP may classify as 3926.90.99.89 β 12.8% Tariff + Audit Risk.
β
Fix: Always use "Toothbrush Cover" or "Brush Accessory."
β Error 2: Claiming it's a "Toiletry Bag" for a simple cap.
π Consequence: Misdeclaration. CBP will reject "bag" classification for a cap.
β
Fix: Use "Cover" or "Cap."
β Error 3: Ignoring Unit Value.
π Consequence: If value > 40Β’, use 9603.29.80.90. If < 40Β’, use 9603.29.40.00. Wrong value β Wrong Code.
β
Fix: Check commercial invoice value. Ensure it matches the HS subheading.
β Error 4: Packaging with Toothpaste or Other Items.
π Consequence: If part of a set, the whole set may be classified differently.
β
Fix: If sold separately, declare individually. If sold as a set, declare the principal item.
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Costs, Avoid Delays!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Cap for Brush, Not Plastic, Not Bag!"
πΉ "0% Tariff if9603.29.80.90, 12.8% if3926.90.99.89!"
πΉ "Value Matters: Over 40Β’? Use80.90. Under 40Β’? Use40.00!"
π Pro Tip:
If your toothbrush covers are silicone or fabric, ensure you highlight the material in the description, but the function (brush cover) remains the key to classification under Heading 96.03.
For travel cases (hard/soft bags), use 4202.32.10.00 or 4202.32.40.00 with clear descriptions of them being carrying cases.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your customs broker to confirm the unit value of your toothbrush covers.
π Provide clear images showing the cover on a toothbrush to support the9603.29.80.90classification.
πΌ Ensure your commercial invoice reads: "Plastic Toothbrush Protective Cover - Accessory for Brush".
β¨ Professional Classification, Start with Precision!
πΌ Every Cent Saved in Tariffs is Pure Profit!
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.