Transparent Tape (Tearable)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3919102040 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ Transparent Tape (Tearable) β Self-Adhesive Plastic Tape
π HS Code 101 Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Transparent Tape"?
Transparent Tape, specifically Tearable self-adhesive tape, is a ubiquitous packaging and stationery material. In international trade, it falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof).
The key distinction here is not about the brand or color, but strictly about physical dimensions: 1. Width: Must NOT EXCEED 20 cm (200 mm). 2. Length: Must NOT EXCEED 55 meters per roll. 3. Material: Self-adhesive, made of plastics (typically PP or PVC). 4. Feature: Tearable (tearable along a perforated line or by hand without scissors).
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If the roll width EXCEEDS 20 cm β It is NOT 3919.10.20.30/40. It may fall under broader self-adhesive categories (e.g., 3919.10.40.00 or similar depending on width brackets).
- If the length EXCEEDS 55 m β It is NOT this specific sub-heading. It may fall under "Other" (e.g., 3919.10.90.00).
- Exact Match: Width β€ 5 cm AND Length β€ 55 m β HS Code 3919.10.20.40 (as per your provided data).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Based on the <DATA> provided, here is the specific classification:
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Criteria | Applicable Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|
3919.10.20.30 |
Transparent tape, not exceeding 55m in length | Width: > 5 cm (but β€ 20 cm) | Standard office tape (e.g., 1 inch/2.5 cm width is too narrow? Wait, let's check data). (Note: Data shows 3919.10.20.30 is "Other" under the 55m length bracket. Usually, width β€5cm is a specific sub-category.) |
3919.10.20.40 |
Transparent tape, not exceeding 55m in length: Not exceeding 5 cm in width | Width: β€ 5 cm Length: β€ 55 m |
Your Target Product: Standard "Scotch Tape" rolls, small gift wrap tapes, office sticky tapes. |
3919.10.90.00 (Hypothetical) |
Other self-adhesive plastic plates/sheets/tapes | Width > 20 cm OR Length > 55 m | Industrial packaging tapes, wide masking tapes. |
π Focus on Your Data:
The provided<DATA>explicitly lists:
HS Code: 3919.10.20.40
Description: Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics... In rolls of a width not exceeding 20 cm: Other Other: Transparent tape, not exceeding 55 m in length: Not exceeding 5 cm in width.Conclusion: If your "Transparent Tape (Tearable)" has a width of 5 cm or less (approx. 2 inches) and rolls are 55 meters or shorter, it MUST be classified under
3919.10.20.40.
π° III. 2026 Tariff Rate Detail (Including Additional Taxes & Policies)
β Applicable Country: Based on
<DATA>tax structure.
β Origin: China (CN) β Assumed based on typical export patterns, but check origin certificate.
β Effective Time: Current Tariff Schedule.
π― 1. 3919.10.20.40 ββ Transparent Tape (β€5cm width, β€55m length)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301 / Trade War) | 0.0% (No additional tax listed in <DATA>) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0.00 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Generally, low-value plastic goods are eligible if below threshold) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 3919.10.20.40 |
π Explanation:
- Unlike electronics or steel, plastic tapes are generally not subject to the high 25% or 10% additional tariffs under Section 301 or IEEPA in this specific sub-category (as per your provided<DATA>which shows0.0%, 0.0%).
- Zero Tariff Advantage: This is a significant cost-saving point. Ensure you do not misclassify it as "other plastics" (e.g., 3920 or 3921) which might have higher duties.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documents Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: Width (cm/mm), Length (m), Material (PP/PVC), Adhesive Type. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Transparent Adhesive Tape, Tearable, Width: X cm, Length: Y m, HS: 3919.10.20.40" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include net weight, gross weight, and number of rolls per carton. |
| β Photo of Product & Label | βοΈ | Show the roll, the core, and any printed label indicating dimensions. |
| β Declaration of Non-Industrial Use | βοΈ | If itβs consumer-grade stationery/packaging, not for heavy industrial sealing (which might trigger different codes). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Width is King, Length is Queen, 20cm Limit, 55m Scene!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Width = 4.8 cm, Length = 50 m | 3919.10.20.40 |
Misdeclare as "Plastic Film" β 3920.19.00.00 (Higher risk) |
| Width = 6 cm, Length = 50 m | NOT 3919.10.20.40 |
Using 40 code β Customs Seizure/Correction |
| Length = 100 m | NOT 3919.10.20.40 |
Using 40 code β Misclassification Penalty |
| Non-transparent (e.g., White Masking Tape) | Check Code | Using "Transparent" description β False Declaration |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Multiple Widths in One Shipment | Declare separately. If one batch is 4 cm and another is 6 cm, they have different HS Codes. Do not mix. |
| Perforated/Tearable Feature | Mention "Tearable" in description. It does not change the HS code for 3919.10, but helps customs understand itβs consumer-grade. |
| Core Material | If the inner core is cardboard vs. plastic, it usually doesnβt affect the 3919 classification, but ensure the outer plastic tape is the dominant material. |
| Bulk Industrial Rolls | If the roll is >55m, even if width is 5 cm, it is NOT 3919.10.20.40. It may fall under 3919.10.90.00 (Other). Check local tariff for this. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (CN Origin) | Certification | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3919.10.20.40 |
0.0% | None Required | Check if de minimis ($800) applies for small packages. |
| π¨π³ China | 3919.10.20.40 |
5.0% (Import Duty) | None | Import duty is low; no VAT on plastic tape usually? (VAT applies). |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3919.10.20 |
0.0% | REACH Compliance | Ensure adhesive chemicals comply with EU REACH regulations. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3919.10.20 |
0.0% | UKCA/CE | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3919.10.20 |
5.0% | GSR | General Safety Requirements. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is a 0% tariff destination for this specific sub-code.
- EU/UK are also largely duty-free, but chemical compliance (REACH) is critical for adhesives.
- China (as destination) has a small import duty (5%), but is still low.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring "Masking Tape" or "Duct Tape" as "Transparent Tape"
π Consequence: If itβs not transparent, it may fall under 3919.10.10.00 or other sub-heads. Misdeclaration leads to fines.
π Fix: Specify "Clear/Transparent" in description.
β Error 2: Mixing rolls of different widths in one HS Code line
π Consequence: If you have 4.5 cm and 6.0 cm rolls, they are different codes. 6.0 cm is NOT 3919.10.20.40.
π Fix: Separate by width on the invoice.
β Error 3: Ignoring the 55-meter length limit
π Consequence: If your roll is 100m long, it is NOT 3919.10.20.40. It is "Other" (3919.10.90.00 or similar).
π Fix: Verify roll length. If >55m, use a different code.
β Correct Description Example:
"Transparent Self-Adhesive Plastic Tape, PP Material, Tearable, Width: 4.8 cm, Length: 50 Meters per Roll, HS: 3919.10.20.40"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Time!
π― Remember the Rules:
πΉ "Width β€ 5 cm, Length β€ 55 m β 3919.10.20.40"
πΉ "Width > 5 cm but β€ 20 cm β 3919.10.20.30 (Other)"
πΉ "Width > 20 cm OR Length > 55 m β Other Codes"
π Pro Tip:
- For small e-commerce shipments to the US, if the value is <$800, you may qualify for De Minimis Entry (Section 321), bypassing formal customs entry.
- For bulk shipments, ensure the HS Code matches the exact dimensions to avoid customs holds.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm your Roll Width and Roll Length immediately.
π¦ If Width is 4.8 cm and Length is 50 m, use 3919.10.20.40.
π Clearance Smooth, Duty = $0, Profit Max!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Your Zero-Duty Advantage is in the Details!
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.