clocks excluding heading 91.01
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9109904000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9105995000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9105996000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9105995000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9106908500 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π°οΈ Clocks (Excluding Heading 91.01: Wrist Watches, Pocket Watches)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition: What Are We Importing?
In international trade, "Clocks Excluding Heading 91.01" refers to timekeeping devices that are not wrist watches or pocket watches. This category typically includes: * Wall Clocks: Decorative or functional clocks for indoor/outdoor use. * Desk/Travel Clocks: Standalone timepieces not worn on the body. * Clock Movements: The internal mechanisms (motors) that drive the clock hands, if imported separately. * Specialized Time Recorders: Devices primarily used for recording time intervals (e.g., industrial timers).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the item is a watch worn on the wrist or in a pocket, it belongs to Heading 91.01/91.02.
- If it is a standalone clock or its movement, it falls under Heading 91.05, 91.06, or the residual 91.09.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Based on the provided data, here are the specific HS Codes applicable to "Clocks Excluding Heading 91.01," categorized by their specific nature and tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description & Summary | Tax Structure (US Import from CN) | Key Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
9109.90.40.00 |
Clock Movements & Residual Clock Parts "Clock category (excluding Ch. 91.01), matching movements and clock-related categories, fits the residual category logic." |
Total: 15Β’ each + 6.4% + 10% *(Base: 15Β’+6.4% |
Sec 301: 0% |
9105.99.50.00 |
Other Clocks (Non-Metal/Standard) "Watch category, excluding Ch. 91.01 materials, fits other clock classification logic." |
Total: 7.5Β’ each + 3.2% + 10% *(Base: 7.5Β’+3.2% |
Sec 301: 0% |
9105.99.60.00 |
Other Clocks (High-Tariff Tier) "Clock category, fits other clock product attributes, no material or form conflict." |
Total: 23Β’ each + 3.2% + 17.5% *(Base: 23Β’+3.2% |
Sec 301: 7.5% |
9105.99.50.00 |
Residual Other Clocks "Clock category, belongs to other clock residual category, use and product attributes consistent." |
Total: 7.5Β’ each + 3.2% + 10% *(Base: 7.5Β’+3.2% |
Sec 301: 0% |
9106.90.85.00 |
Time Recording Instruments "Clock category, core purpose matches time recording, fits other category logic, no conflict." |
Total: 15Β’ each + 2.3% + 0.8Β’/jewel + 35% *(Base: 15Β’+2.3%+0.8Β’/jewel |
Sec 301: 25% |
π Critical Observation:
-9105.99.50.00is the most cost-effective for standard clocks (Low base duty + 0% Sec 301).
-9105.99.60.00and9106.90.85.00carry significantly higher additional tariffs (7.5% and 25% Sec 301 respectively).
-9109.90.40.00is for movements/components, not complete clocks.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Policy Analysis)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9105.99.50.00 β Other Clocks (Best Value)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty (MFN) | 7.5Β’ per unit + 3.2% ad valorem |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 3.2% + 7.5Β’/unit + 10% surcharge |
| Calculation Logic | (CIF Value Γ 3.2%) + (7.5Β’ Γ Qty) + (CIF Value Γ 10%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (De Minimis values are generally not exempt from Section 301/122 duties) |
| Legal Basis | USITC:9105.99.50.00 β IEEPA:9903.01.25 (122 Clause) |
π Explanation:
- This code is ideal for standard wall clocks, desk clocks, or generic timepieces.
- The 0% Section 301 rate makes it significantly cheaper than9105.99.60.00or9106.90.85.00.
- Ensure the product description clearly states "Clock" and excludes "Wrist Watch" features to qualify for this lower tier.
π― 2. 9105.99.60.00 β Other Clocks (Higher Duty Tier)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty (MFN) | 23Β’ per unit + 3.2% ad valorem |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 3.2% + 23Β’/unit + 7.5% + 10% |
| Calculation Logic | (CIF Value Γ 3.2%) + (23Β’ Γ Qty) + (CIF Value Γ 7.5%) + (CIF Value Γ 10%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | USITC:9105.99.60.00 β USITC:Footnote 9903.88.01 (Sec 301) β IEEPA:9903.01.25 |
π Explanation:
- This code may apply to clocks with specific materials or designs that trigger the higher Section 301 rate.
- Avoid this code if9105.99.50.00is applicable, as the difference in total duty can be substantial.
π― 3. 9106.90.85.00 β Time Recording Instruments (Specialized)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty (MFN) | 15Β’ per unit + 2.3% + 0.8Β’ per jewel |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 25% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 2.3% + 15Β’/unit + 0.8Β’/jewel + 25% + 10% |
| Calculation Logic | (CIF Value Γ 2.3%) + (15Β’ Γ Qty) + (Jewels Γ 0.8Β’) + (CIF Value Γ 25%) + (CIF Value Γ 10%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | USITC:9106.90.85.00 β USITC:Footnote 9903.88.01 (Sec 301) β IEEPA:9903.01.25 |
π Explanation:
- Only for industrial time recorders or devices with a primary function of recording time intervals (not just telling time).
- The 25% Section 301 rate is the highest in this dataset. Misclassifying a regular clock as a time recorder will result in massive overpayment. Misclassifying a time recorder as a regular clock will result in penalties.
π― 4. 9109.90.40.00 β Clock Movements (Components)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty (MFN) | 15Β’ per unit + 6.4% ad valorem |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 6.4% + 15Β’/unit + 10% |
| Calculation Logic | (CIF Value Γ 6.4%) + (15Β’ Γ Qty) + (CIF Value Γ 10%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis | USITC:9109.90.40.00 β IEEPA:9903.01.25 |
π Explanation:
- Use this only for movements (the internal motor/mechanism) imported separately.
- Do not use for complete clocks. Complete clocks have different classification rules.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail: Type (Wall/Desk/Clock), Movement Type (Quartz/Mechanical), Dimensions, Power Source. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing the front, back (battery compartment), and any logos/model numbers. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly state: "Clock (Not Watch)" to avoid confusion with Heading 91.01. |
| β Bill of Lading/Air Waybill | βοΈ | Ensure HS Code matches the invoice. |
| β Origin Certificate | βοΈ | If claiming any preferential treatment (though not applicable for US-China here). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Not a Watch, It's a Clock; Specify Type, Avoid the Hook!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Declaration | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Wall Clock | 9105.99.50.00 |
"Watch" | Rejection + Penalty |
| Desk Clock with Alarm | 9105.99.50.00 |
"Electronic Device" | Delayed Clearance |
| Industrial Timer | 9106.90.85.00 |
"Wall Clock" | Underpayment (Penalty) |
| Clock Movement Only | 9109.90.40.00 |
"Clock" | Misclassification |
| Luxury Decor Clock | 9105.99.60.00 (if applicable) |
9105.99.50.00 |
Overpayment (if actually 9105.99.60) |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Clocks with GPS/Bluetooth | Still classified as Clocks (91.05/91.06) unless the primary function becomes data processing. If primary function is data processing, it may shift to Chapter 85. Check with customs. |
| Clocks for Medical Use | If designed specifically for medical timing (e.g., surgical timers), consider 9106.90.85.00. Ensure documentation supports "Time Recording" function. |
| Kit Assembled Clocks | If imported as a kit (movement + face + hands), declare as Clocks (91.05) if complete enough to function. If not, declare as Parts (91.09). |
| OEM Clocks | Provide customer design specs to prove it's a standard clock, not a specialized instrument. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ United States | 9105.99.50.00 |
3.2% + 10% (122) | FCC (if electronic) | Highest cost due to 122 clause. |
| π¨π³ China | 9105.99.50.00 |
5-8% | CCC (if applicable) | Standard export duty. |
| πͺπΊ European Union | 9105.99.90 |
0-4.5% | CE + RoHS | Lower tariffs, but strict CE marking. |
| π¬π§ United Kingdom | 9105.99.90 |
0-4.5% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 9105.99.90 |
5% | RCM | No specialιε tariffs. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 9105.99.90 |
0-6.5% | PSE | Varies by type. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market has the highest additional tariffs due to Section 122 (10%) and potential Section 301.
- EU, UK, and Asia markets are more favorable for clock exports.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a Clock as a Watch
π Consequence: Wrong HS Code (91.01 vs 91.05) β Customs Seizure + Penalty
β Mistake 2: Declaring a Movement as a Clock
π Consequence: Overpayment of duty (Clock duty may be higher/lower than movement duty) β Lost Profit
β Mistake 3: Ignoring Section 122 (10%) in Tariff Calculation
π Consequence: Underpayment β Back Taxes + Interest
β Mistake 4: Using "Timepiece" or "Gadget" as Product Name
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine HS Code β Inspection Delay
β Correct Practice:
"Wall Clock, Quartz Movement, Battery Operated, 12-inch Diameter, Model XYZ, FCC Certified"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Not a Watch, It's a Clock.
9105.50is King.9106for Timers.9109for Movings. Ignore 122, Pay Big!"
πΉ "HS Code is Life. Duty Difference is Huge. Declare Correctly, Stay Compliant!"
π Pro Tip:
If your clocks are assembled in Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may qualify for IEEPA Exemptions, reducing the total duty significantly.
Recommend applying for an Advance Ruling before shipment to avoid clearance risks.
π£ Action Now:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Let your clocks Clear Smoothly, Export Efficiently, and Profit Maximize!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Every Penny Counts! Calculate Precisely!
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.