folding portable stool
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9401790025 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9401790015 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9401696031 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9401790050 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9403608093 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
🪑 Folding Portable Stool (Outdoor Camping Stools)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Folding Stools"?
A folding portable stool is a lightweight, collapsible seating device primarily used for outdoor activities (camping, hiking, fishing) or temporary indoor use. In international trade, these items are classified based on their frame material and specific design features. The key distinction lies in whether the stool is categorized as a general "seat" (Chapter 94) or a specific type of furniture with specific material compositions.
⚠️ Key Classification Criteria:
- Structure: Does it have a metal frame, wooden frame, or mixed materials?
- Portability: Is it designed for easy folding and carrying?
- Usage: Primarily outdoor/recreational vs. permanent indoor furniture.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, the following HS Codes are applicable for Folding Portable Stools. All listed codes carry a 35.0% Total Tax Rate for imports from China to the US under current regulations.
| HS Code | Product Description | Classification Logic | Material/Structure Inference |
|---|---|---|---|
9401.79.00.25 |
Folding Camping Stool | Matches seating form; inferred for outdoor/household use. Material not explicitly specified but no conflict. | General/Unspecified |
9401.79.00.15 |
Folding Camping Stool | Inferred for outdoor use; frame includes metal structure with textile seat surface. | Metal Frame + Textile |
9401.69.60.31 |
Folding Chair | Classified as a chair; inferred to contain wooden or metal frame. Fits the "other wooden frame seats" bottom-category logic. | Wooden/Metal Frame |
9401.79.00.50 |
Folding Chair | Classified as seating; inferred to contain metal frame structure. Fits the "other metal frame seats" bottom-category logic. | Metal Frame |
9403.60.80.93 |
Folding Chair | Classified as furniture; inferred possibly wooden or other materials. Fits the "other wooden furniture" bottom-category logic. | Wooden/Other Material |
🔍 Important Note:
- All these codes fall under Chapter 94 (Furniture) or 9401 (Seats).
- The specific sub-code depends on the exact material composition (wood vs. metal vs. other) and the specific design (camping stool vs. general chair).
- Do not mix categories: A metal-framed camping stool should not be declared as a wooden furniture item to avoid customs penalties.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: As per current regulations (2025-2026 period)
🎯 Common Tariff Structure for All Listed HS Codes
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 / "Added Tariff" | +25.0% (Applied to specific Chinese-origin goods) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Additional surcharge for specific categories) |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (Denied for these categories due to high tariffs) |
📌 Explanation:
- Base 0%: The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for furniture/seats is often 0%.
- 25% Added Tariff: This is the Section 301 tariff imposed on a wide range of Chinese-manufactured goods, including furniture and seating.
- 10% Section 122 Tariff: An additional surcharge applicable to certain imports from China.
- Total 35%: This is a significant cost factor that must be factored into pricing and sourcing strategies.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Must Provide? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specifications | ✔️ | Detailed description including dimensions, weight, folding mechanism, and intended use (outdoor/indoor). |
| ✅ Material Composition | ✔️ | Clearly state frame material (e.g., Aluminum, Steel, Wood) and seat material (e.g., Polyester, Canvas, Plastic). |
| ✅ Product Photos | ✔️ | Clear images showing the product in both folded and unfolded states, including labels/tags. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Must explicitly state: "Folding Camping Stool, [Material] Frame, for Outdoor Use". |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Detail the quantity per carton and total weight. |
| ✅ Origin Certificate | ✔️ | Proof of origin from China is required to apply the correct tariff rates. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
🔥 “Be Specific on Material, Highlight ‘Outdoor’ Use, Avoid ‘Furniture’ Ambiguity!”
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Frame Camping Stool | 9401.79.00.15 or 9401.79.00.50 (if clearly metal) |
Declaring as general furniture (9403...) without material proof. |
| Wooden Frame Stool | 9401.69.60.31 or 9403.60.80.93 |
Declaring as metal if wood is used → Misclassification risk. |
| Generic Folding Stool | 9401.79.00.25 |
Using vague terms like "Seat" or "Chair" without specifying "Folding/Camping". |
✅ 3. Special Handling Cases
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Mixed Materials | If the frame is metal but the seat is leather/fabric, prioritize the frame material for classification under 9401. |
| OEM/Custom Designs | Provide design sketches or samples to prove it is a "portable stool" and not a permanent piece of furniture. |
| Large Shipments | Ensure packaging is labeled clearly as "Camping Gear" or "Outdoor Equipment" to support the intended use classification. |
🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Update)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 9401.79.00.15 / 9401.79.00.50 |
35% (Total) | No specific certification | High tariff burden; plan pricing accordingly. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 9401.79.00.15 |
~10-15% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower duty rate for domestic/regional trade. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 9401.79.00 |
0-3.7% | CE (if electrical) | No Section 301 tariffs; more favorable for EU markets. |
| 🇬🇧 UK | 9401.79.00 |
0-3.7% | UKCA | Post-Brexit tariffs generally lower than US. |
📌 Conclusion:
- The US market poses the highest tariff barrier for folding stools due to the 35% combined rate.
- For US-bound shipments, ensure accurate material declaration to avoid penalties for misclassification.
- Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., manufacturing in Vietnam or Malaysia) if tariffs become a critical cost driver.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
❌ Error 1: Declaring a metal-framed stool as wooden furniture (9403...) to seek lower base rates.
👉 Consequence: Customs audit will reject this, leading to back taxes + penalties.
❌ Error 2: Using vague descriptions like "Chair" without specifying "Folding" or "Camping".
👉 Consequence: Customs may classify it under a different subheading, potentially altering the tariff treatment or causing delays.
❌ Error 3: Failing to provide material breakdown for mixed-material stools.
👉 Consequence: Customs may apply the highest possible duty rate or require reclassification, causing shipment delays.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Folding Camping Stool, Aluminum Frame, Oxford Fabric Seat, Portable, for Outdoor Use, Model XYZ, Weight: 1.5kg"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Efficiency, Risk Mitigation!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Material First, Structure Second, Use Context Third!"
🔹 "35% Total Tax in US is Non-Negotiable; Accuracy is Your Only Shield!"
🔹 "One Step Wrong in HS Code, Thousands Lost in Duties!"
📌 Pro Tip:
- If your stools are originating from Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may avoid Section 301 tariffs, significantly reducing costs.
- Consider applying for an Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) from US Customs if you are unsure about the exact sub-code for complex designs.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Consult with a licensed customs broker + Provide product specs + Verify HS Code pre-classification
🚀 Ensure smooth clearance, minimize costs, and maximize profitability!
✨ Professional clearance starts with precise classification!
💼 Every cent of cost deserves precise calculation!
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) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — 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 — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — 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.