brooms and brushes hs 9603210000
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9603210000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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πͺ₯ Toothbrushes & Dental-Plate Brushes (Under HS 9603.21.00.00)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professionalιε ³ Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Toothbrushes"?
In international trade, Toothbrushes are categorized under Chapter 96 (Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles). Specifically, they fall under Heading 9603, which covers "Brooms, brushes... hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers, not motorized; ... toothbrushes for use on the person."
The specific subheading 9603.21.00.00 is strictly defined as:
"Toothbrushes, including dental-plate brushes"
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- β Classified as 9603.21.00.00: Standard manual toothbrushes for human use, as well as dental-plate brushes (brushes specifically designed to clean dentures/bridges). These are personal care items used on the person.
- β NOT Classified here:
- Motorized/electric toothbrushes (These fall under different codes, often 8509 or other parts chapters depending on assembly).
- Industrial cleaning brushes or floor brooms (These fall under other subheadings of 9603, e.g., 9603.29 for other brushes, or 9603.10 for brooms).
- Electric dental scalers or surgical instruments (These fall under Chapter 90).
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authorityε―Ήη §)
Based on the provided data, the specific classification is:
| HS Code | Product Description | Tax Rate (Total) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
9603.21.00.00 |
Toothbrushes, including dental-plate brushes | 7.5% | Manual toothbrushes, denture brushes, personal hygiene use. |
π Important Note: * The definition explicitly includes "dental-plate brushes". This means brushes sold in dental offices or pharmacies specifically for cleaning false teeth are taxed at the same rate as regular toothbrushes. * If the product is an electric toothbrush head, ensure it is marketed/sold as a replacement brush only. If it is a standalone electric unit, the classification changes entirely.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β ηζζΆι΄: Current (Post-2025 adjustments)
π― 1. 9603.21.00.00 ββ Toothbrushes & Dental-Plate Brushes
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 / Added Tariff | +7.5% |
| Total Tariff | 7.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 7.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β Yes (Likely) Note: Personal care items often qualify for de minimis (Section 321) if under $800, subject to specific US CBP rules at the time of entry. However, if subject to 301 tariffs, the exemption may be restricted depending on the current trade policy enforcement. Always verify current CBP de minimis rules for Chinese-origin goods. |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 9603.21.00.00 |
π Explanation: * The Base Rate is 0%, making this a duty-free entry for most non-china origins. * The 7.5% total tax represents the "Additional Tariff" (often associated with Section 301 lists or specific trade actions on Chinese goods). * Unlike electronics or heavy machinery, personal hygiene items like toothbrushes often face lower or more stable tariff rates, but the 7.5% surcharge must be accounted for in your landed cost calculation.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Toothbrushes, Manual" or "Dental-Plate Brushes". Avoid vague terms like "Cleaning Supplies." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail the quantity per box. |
| β Product Description | βοΈ | Specify: "Manual, for personal use on the person." If electric, provide model numbers and separate classification. |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | βοΈ | If the brushes contain certain bristle materials or packaging, customs may require safety data. |
| β FDA Registration | βοΈ | CRITICAL: Toothbrushes are considered medical devices by the FDA (Class I). Ensure your manufacturer is FDA registered and the product complies with 21 CFR Part 801/803. Customs often works with FDA to seize non-compliant hygiene products. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Manual Only, Personal Use, FDA Compliant!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Toothbrushes | 9603.21.00.00 "Manual Toothbrush for Personal Hygiene" |
Declaring as "Cleaning Brush" (Wrong Chapter) |
| Denture Brushes | 9603.21.00.00 "Dental-Plate Brush for Dentures" |
Declaring as "Household Cleaning Tool" |
| Electric Toothbrush | NOT 9603.21.00.00 (Usually 8509.40 or similar) |
Mixing electric and manual in one line item |
| Industrial Bristles | NOT 9603.21.00.00 (Different HS Code) |
Labeling industrial bristle brushes as "Toothbrushes" |
β 3. Special Situations & Risk Management
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| FDA Compliance | Highest Priority. Non-compliant toothbrushes will be detained by FDA and destroyed by CBP. Ensure your supplier has an active FDA establishment registration. |
| Bamboo/Natural Bristles | If made with certain organic materials, check for USDA/APHIS phytosanitary requirements. |
| Private Label/OEM | Ensure the invoice lists the brand name correctly. Mislabeling can lead to IP rights issues at customs. |
| High-Volume Imports | Consider using Section 321 (De Minimis) if your shipment value per person is under $800 and you are eligible, potentially avoiding the 7.5% tariff. However, verify if Section 301 goods are excluded from de minimis (policy changes frequently). |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Snapshot)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9603.21.00.00 |
7.5% (China Origin) | FDA (Class I Device) | Base 0% + 7.5% surcharge |
| π¨π³ China | 9603.21.00.00 |
0% - 5% | CCC (if applicable) | Generally low duty for export |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9603.21.00 |
~3.2% - 4.5% | CE (if considered medical) | Check local hygiene regulations |
| π¬π§ UK | 9603.21.00 |
~4.5% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 9603.21.00 |
5% | TGA (if therapeutic) | Standard MFN rate |
π Conclusion: * The US market imposes a 7.5% tariff on Chinese-origin toothbrushes. * The regulatory barrier (FDA) is often higher than the tariff barrier. Ensure FDA compliance before shipping.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying Electric Toothbrushes under 9603.21.00.00
π Consequence: Incorrect classification, potential penalties, and different tariff rates (often higher).
π Fix: Electric toothbrushes usually fall under 8509.40 (Hand-held appliances with self-contained electric motor).
β Error 2: Ignoring FDA Requirements π Consequence: Goods detained at US port, destroyed, and fined. π Fix: Verify supplier's FDA registration number on the invoice.
β Error 3: Vague Description "Cleaning Brush" π Consequence: Customs may assign a wrong code with higher duties or hold goods for inspection. π Fix: Explicitly state "For personal use on the person" or "Dental-Plate Brush".
β Correct Declaration Example:
"MANUAL TOOTHBRUSHES, PLASTIC HANDLE, NYLON BRISTLES, FOR PERSONAL HYGIENE USE, MODEL TB-100"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Smooth Clearance, Cost Control!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Manual Only, Personal Use, FDA Compliant!"
πΉ "7.5% Tariff for China, but FDA is the Real Gatekeeper!"
πΉ "HS 9603.21.00.00 is for Brushes on the Person, Not Floors or Machines!"
π Pro Tip: If you are importing large volumes, consider negotiating FOB terms to shift freight costs and verify if Section 321 de minimis still applies to your specific business model in 2026. Always keep FDA registration certificates handy for CBP/FDA inspections.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult with your Customs Broker to confirm FDA registration status.
π Ensure your commercial invoice is precise to avoid delays.
πΌ Accurate classification saves time, money, and headlessaches!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every cent of duty matters!
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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.