clothesline with clips
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7326908688 | 87.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7326200090 | 88.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5607493000 | 38.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5607491000 | 37.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7326200020 | 88.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§Ί Clothesline with Clips (Laundry Lines & Fasteners)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Clotheslines with Clips"?
A clothesline with clips is a hybrid household item consisting of a suspension element (rope, cord, or wire) and attachment mechanisms (clips, typically made of metal or plastic) used to secure laundry. In international trade, the classification depends heavily on Material Composition and Primary Function.
1. Metallic Suspensions & Clips (Wires/Hangers):
Items where the main structure is steel/iron wire or metal hangers with clips.
2. Polymer/Rope Suspensions & Clips:
Items where the main suspension is plastic (PE/PP) or synthetic rope, often with matching clips.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is essentially metal wire/hangers with clips attached β Classified under Chapter 73 (Iron/Steel Articles).
- If the product is essentially a plastic rope/cord with clips β Classified under Chapter 56 (Ropes, Cords, and Twine).
- If the product is a simple plastic clothes peg (no line) β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics).
- Note: The provided data suggests specific HS codes for variations of this product mix. We will analyze each based on the inferred material and form.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)
Based on the inferred materials and forms from the provided dataset, here are the potential classifications:
| HS Code | Product Description | Inferred Material/Form | Tax Logic & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
7326.90.86.88 |
Other articles of iron or steel | Metal (Iron/Steel) Non-specific metalεΆε |
Matches "Other articles of iron/steel." If the line/clips are primarily metal wire, this applies. |
7326.20.00.90 |
Other articles of wire | Metal Wire (Steel/Iron) Other wire articles |
Classified as "Other articles of wire" if the product is interpreted as metal wire products (e.g., wire hangers with clips). |
5607.49.30.00 |
Other ropes/cords/twines, of synthetic fibers | Plastic/Polymer (PE/PP) Rope form |
Matches "Ropes" made of plastics (like PE/PP). If the main component is a plastic rope with clips, this is a strong candidate. |
5607.49.10.00 |
Ropes, cords, and twines, of synthetic fibers | Plastic/Polymer (PE/PP) Rope/Cord form |
Similar to above, but potentially different sub-category for specific rope types. Matches "Rope" form factor. |
7326.20.00.20 |
Other articles of wire | Metal (Iron/Steel) or Plastic Hanger-like logic |
The summary notes it fits "Iron/Steel other articles" logically consistent with hanger-like functions. High tax burden due to metal content. |
3926.90.70.00 |
Other articles of plastic | Plastic Clips/Hangers |
If the item is predominantly plastic clips or plastic hangers without a separate metal/plastic rope component, this may apply. Matches "Other plastic articles." |
π Critical Warning:
- Mixed Materials: Customs often looks at the essential character. If a clothesline has a steel wire core, even with plastic clips, it may be classified under Chapter 73 (Metals), leading to significantly higher tariffs (~88-89%) compared to plastic alternatives (~22-38%).
- "Rope" vs. "Article": A simple plastic clothesline is often classified as Rope/Twine (Chapter 56). However, if it includes specific clip mechanisms that define its function, it might shift to Plastic Articles (Chapter 39) or Metal Articles (Chapter 73) depending on the dominant material.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Policy Analysis)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Post-2025 (Including Section 301 and 232 measures)
π― 1. Metallic Options: 7326.90.86.88 & 7326.20.00.90 & 7326.20.00.20
These codes carry the highest tariff burden due to steel/iron content and Section 232/301 duties.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.9% - 3.9% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| Section 232 Duty (Steel/Aluminum) | +10% (For steel/aluminum/copper products) Note: Some sources cite 50% for specific steel/aluminum articles under certain conditions, but the data specifies 10% for "Steel, Aluminum, Copper Articles" with a total potential of 50% in some contexts. The data provided explicitly lists 50% for 7326.20.00.90 and 7326.90.86.88 as part of the "122 clause tariff for Steel, Aluminum, Copper Articles". |
| Total Tax Rate | 87.9% - 88.9% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value Γ 87.9% - 88.9% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High duty rates typically exclude de minimis for Section 301/232 goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:7326... β Section 301: +25% β Section 232: +10-50% |
π Explanation:
- Section 301 (+25%): Standard tariff on Chinese goods.
- Section 232 (+10-50%): National security tariffs on steel/aluminum. The data indicates a total of ~88%, implying the 122 Clause (likely referencing specific US trade regulations on metal articles) adds a significant burden (up to 50% in some interpretations for specific steel products).
- Risk: Metal clotheslines are high-risk for high-duty entry.
π― 2. Polymer/Rope Options: 5607.49.30.00 & 5607.49.10.00
Lower tariff burden, but still subject to Section 301.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.7% - 3.6% |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| Section 232 Duty | 0% (Plastic/Synthetic fibers are not steel/aluminum) |
| Total Tax Rate | 27.7% - 28.6% (Data lists 37.7% - 38.6% total, implying an additional 10-11% may be included in the "122 Clause" or other policy additions for synthetic ropes) |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value Γ 37.7% - 38.6% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Section 301 duties generally apply regardless of value) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:5607... β Section 301: +25% β Other Policy Add-ons |
π Explanation:
- These codes fall under Chapter 56 (Ropes/Cords).
- The total rate in the data (37.7%-38.6%) suggests that beyond the 25% Section 301 duty, there is an additional ~12-13% levy (possibly from other trade remedies or specific tariff lines for synthetic fibers).
- Note: The data explicitly states "122 Clause Tariff 10%" for these items. 3.6% + 25% + 10% = 38.6%. This aligns perfectly with the total for5607.49.30.00.
π― 3. Plastic Article Option: 3926.90.70.00
Lowest tariff burden, but may not apply if the product has a significant metal/rope component.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% (Note: Data shows total 22.8%, which is 5.3 + 7.5 + 10? Or just 5.3 + 7.5 = 12.8? The data says 22.8% total, with detail: Base 5.3%, Add 7.5%, 122 Clause 10%. 5.3+7.5+10=22.8. This matches.) |
| Total Tax Rate | 22.8% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value Γ 22.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926... β Section 301: +7.5% β 122 Clause: +10% |
π Explanation:
- This code is for "Other Plastic Articles."
- If your product is entirely plastic (plastic hangers + plastic clips + plastic rope), this might apply.
- However, if the product includes a metal wire or rope, customs may reject this code in favor of7326or5607.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Best Practices to Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must detail materials: % metal, % plastic, type of rope. |
| β Material Composition Statement | βοΈ | Explicitly state: "Clips: Plastic/Metal; Line: Nylon/Steel/Plastic." |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the entire item, including close-ups of clips and line material. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description must be precise: e.g., "Plastic Clothesline with Clips, 100% Synthetic Fiber Rope." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Include dimensions, weight, and quantity. |
| β Customs Ruling (If Available) | βοΈ | Pre-classification ruling from CBP is highly recommended for hybrid goods. |
β 2. Classification Strategy & Pitfalls
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Risk Level | Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Wire Hangers with Plastic Clips | 7326.20.00.90 / 7326.90.86.88 |
π΄ High | Tax ~88%. Ensure the wire is the essential character. If clips are minimal, still metal. |
| Plastic Rope with Plastic Clips | 5607.49.30.00 / 5607.49.10.00 |
π‘ Medium | Tax ~38%. Classify as Rope/Twine if the line is the primary component. |
| Pure Plastic Hangers (No Rope) | 3926.90.70.00 |
π’ Low | Tax ~22.8%. Only if no metal/rope is present. |
| Mixed Metal/Plastic (e.g., Metal Line, Plastic Clips) | 7326... |
π΄ High | Customs will likely classify as Metal Article because metal defines the essential character. |
π₯ Golden Rule:
"Material Dictates Code, Function Follows Material."
- If the line is metal β Chapter 73.
- If the line is synthetic rope β Chapter 56.
- If the clip is the main feature and no line β Chapter 39.
β 3. Special Considerations
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| De Minimis (Section 321) | β Not Applicable. Section 301 and 232 duties nullify the $800 de minimis exemption for Chinese-origin goods. You must pay duties upfront. |
| Section 232 Steel Tariff | If the metal component is steel, expect the 10-50% additional duty. This is non-negotiable for steel articles. |
| Labeling | Label must include: "Made in China," Material Composition, and Country of Origin. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Total Duty (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 7326... or 5607... |
22.8% - 88.9% | Very High. Section 301 + 232 duties apply. No de minimis. |
| π¨π³ China | 7326... or 5607... |
5% - 10% | Lower tariffs. No Section 301/232. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 7326... or 5607... |
4.5% - 6.5% | No Section 301/232. Standard MFN rates apply. |
| π¬π§ UK | 7326... or 5607... |
4.5% - 6.5% | Post-Brexit, similar to EU rates. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 7326... or 5607... |
5% - 7% | Low tariffs. No US-style additional duties. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is the most challenging due to layered tariffs (Base + 301 + 232).
- Plastic/Rope-based clotheslines (5607...) are significantly cheaper to import into the US than metal ones (7326...).
- If possible, shift to plastic/synthetic materials to reduce tariffs from ~88% to ~38%.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying a steel wire clothesline as 3926.90.70.00 (Plastic Articles)
π Result: Rejection by CBP, reclassification to 7326, back taxes (~88%), and penalties.
β Error 2: Assuming de minimis applies to clotheslines with metal components
π Result: Package seized or held. Section 301/232 duties do not qualify for the $800 exemption.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 232 steel tariffs
π Result: Underpayment of duty. Steel articles incur an additional 10-50% on top of Section 301.
β Error 4: Misidentifying Rope vs. Article
π Result: If a product is a "rope with clips," it may be classified as Rope (5607) rather than Article (3926/7326). Ensure the description matches the tariff definition.
β Correct Practice:
"Plastic Clothesline, 50ft, with 20 Plastic Clips. Material: 100% Polypropylene Rope. Model: CL-2026. Country of Origin: China."
(If all plastic, use3926.90.70.00or5607.49...depending on CBP interpretation.)
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Cost Savings!
π― Remember the Golden Rules:
πΉ "Metal Line = High Tax (~88%), Plastic Rope = Medium Tax (~38%)."
πΉ "No De Minimis for China-Origin Metal/Steel Goods in the US."
πΉ "Define Essential Character: Is the Line Metal or Plastic?"
π Pro Tip:
- Pre-clearance: Submit a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) or Pre-Ruling request to CBP if you have high-volume shipments.
- Material Shift: Consider switching to 100% Plastic/Synthetic components to save ~50% in duties.
- Documentation: Keep detailed material breakdowns and photos ready for customs inspectors.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Consult a Customs Broker: Verify the HS code with a licensed broker.
π¦ Prepare Documents: Invoice, Packing List, and Material Composition Statement.
π Optimize Supply Chain: Consider non-China origins (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand) for metal clotheslines to avoid Section 301/232 duties, or switch materials to plastic.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Duty Saved is Pure Profit!
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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.