key cover
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4202399000 | 55.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4202329900 | 52.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926908500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8471602000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8471607000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
β¨οΈ Key Covers (Protective Silicone Covers for Keyboards)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Key Covers"?
Key covers, often made of silicone or TPU, are small accessories designed to protect computer keyboards from dust, liquid spills, and wear. In international trade, they are not classified as "parts" of the keyboard itself, but rather as accessories or articles of plastic.
Silicone/TPU Key Caps: Soft, flexible protective layers; Hard Plastic Key Covers: Rigid protective shells (less common for "covers," more for "caps").
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the item is a standalone accessory (silicone mat/cap) sold separately to protect the keyboard β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics) or Chapter 42 depending on specific material/type.
- If the item is an integral part of an automatic data processing machine (built-in or specific internal component) β Classified under Chapter 84 (Machinery).
- Most "Key Covers" sold in retail are accessories, thus falling under Chapter 39 or 42, NOT Chapter 84.
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Tax Rate (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
8471.60.20.00 |
Input or Output Units: Other: Keyboards | Physical Keyboards (Mechanical, Membrane, etc.) | 0% Base + 0% Additional = 0% |
8471.60.70.00 |
Input or Output Units: Other: Units suitable for physical incorporation into automatic data processing machines | Internal Components (e.g., keyboard circuit boards, integrated input modules) | 0% Base + 25% Additional = 25% |
3926.90.85.00 |
Other Articles of Plastics: Fasteners, in clips suitable for use in a mechanical attaching device | Silicone Key Covers (Specific classification for certain plastic clips/covers) | 6.5% Base + 7.5% Additional = 14.0% |
3926.90.99.89 |
Other Articles of Plastics: Other | General Silicone/Plastic Key Covers (Standard protective sleeves) | 5.3% Base + 7.5% Additional = 12.8% |
4202.39.90.00 |
Trunks, Suitcases...: Articles carried in pocket/handbag: Other | Leather/Textile Key Pouches (If the "cover" is a bag/pouch for the whole keyboard) | 0% Base + 0% Additional = 0% |
4202.32.99.00 |
...: With outer surface of textile materials: Other | Textile Keyboard Sleeves/Bags | 0% Base + 0% Additional = 0% |
π Key Reminder:
- Silicone Key Covers (the individual keys or the full mat) are NOT machines or parts of machines. They are accessories. Therefore, they should NOT be classified under8471.60.
- Misclassifying a silicone cover as a keyboard part (8471.60.70) will result in a 25% additional tariff instead of 12.8% or 14.0%.
- If the product is a bag/sleeve to hold the keyboard, use Chapter 42.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Post-November 2025 (Current Rates)
π― 1. 3926.90.85.00 ββ Plastic Key Covers / Fasteners (Specific)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tax | +7.5% |
| Total Tariff | 14.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 14.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (De Minimis threshold ($800) usually excludes Chinese goods under certain trade actions, but verify current CBP rules) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926.90.85.00 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Explanation:
- This code is for plastic articles, specifically "fasteners" or clips. If your key covers are clipped-on silicone keys, this might apply.
- Total 14% is high but lower than machinery parts.
π― 2. 3926.90.99.89 ββ Other Plastic Key Covers (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tax | +7.5% |
| Total Tariff | 12.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 12.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (for Chinese origin) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926.90.99.89 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Note:
- This is the most common code for standard silicone keyboard covers.
- Total 12.8% is the standard burden for these accessories.
- Do NOT use8471.60.70.00(25% total) unless you are importing internal keyboard components that are physically incorporated into the machine.
π― 3. 4202.39.90.00 & 4202.32.99.00 ββ Keyboard Bags/Sleeves
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| Additional Tax | 0% |
| Total Tariff | 0% |
| Tax Calculation | None |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:4202.3x.99.00 |
π Note:
- If you are selling a silicone sleeve that holds the entire keyboard (not individual key caps), classify as Chapter 42.
- 0% Tax is a huge advantage. Ensure the product is described as a "Container" or "Sleeve," not a "Cover" for individual keys.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (No Exceptions)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Material (Silicone/TPU), Dimensions, Weight |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the cover on a keyboard, showing it is an accessory |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description: "Silicone Keyboard Cover, Accessory, Not a Part of Machine" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Show quantity and packaging |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm no prohibited substances |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ βAccessories Go to Ch39, Bags Go to Ch42, Parts Go to Ch84! Donβt Mix Them!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone Key Caps/Mat | 3926.90.99.89 (12.8%) |
8471.60.70.00 (25%) |
| Leather/Textile Keyboard Sleeve | 4202.39.90.00 or 4202.32.99.00 (0%) |
3926.90... (12.8%) |
| Internal Keyboard Circuit Board | 8471.60.70.00 (25%) |
3926.90... (12.8%) |
| Mechanical Keyboard (Full Unit) | 8471.60.20.00 (0%) |
3926.90... (12.8%) |
π Critical Warning:
- Do NOT declare silicone key covers as "Parts of Automatic Data Processing Machines" (8471.60.70) unless they are permanently installed.
- If declared as8471.60.70, you pay 25% total tax.
- If declared correctly as3926.90.99.89, you pay 12.8% total tax.
- Savings: More than 50% of the additional tax!
β 3. Special Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Key Covers with Logo | Provide brand authorization letter to avoid IP issues. |
| Bulk Import (Wholesale) | Ensure HS Code is consistent across all boxes. |
| E-commerce (De Minimis) | Check if the $800 de minimis rule applies to Chinese goods. Currently, many Chinese goods under Section 301 are excluded from de minimis. Verify with CBP. |
| Kit (Cover + Cleaning Kit) | Declare the main item (Cover) as the primary HS Code. |
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.99.89 |
12.8% (China Origin) | High tariff due to Section 301. Avoid 8471.60.70 (25%). |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3926.90.99 |
~6.5% | Lower tariffs. No Section 301 equivalent. |
| π¨π³ China | 3926.90.99 |
~6.5% | Import duty for re-export? Check local rules. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3926.90.99 |
~4.5% | Post-Brexit tariffs. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most challenging market due to Section 301 tariffs.
- Correct Classification is Key: Using3926instead of8471saves 12.2% in additional taxes.
π Part 6: Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Silicone Key Covers as "Keyboard Parts" (8471.60.70)
π Consequence: Pay 25% tax instead of 12.8%. Overpay by ~90% on the additional tax!
β Mistake 2: Declaring a Keyboard Sleeve (Bag) as "Plastic Cover" (3926)
π Consequence: Pay 12.8% instead of 0%. Overpay by 12.8%!
β Mistake 3: Not distinguishing between "Key Cap" (Part) and "Key Cover" (Accessory)
π Consequence: If the item is a hard plastic cap that is part of the keyboard structure, it might be 8471.60.70. If it is a soft silicone sleeve, it is 3926. Be precise in description.
β Correct Approach:
"Silicone Keyboard Cover, Protective Accessory, Not Integrated into Machine, Model XYZ, Material: TPU"
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Saving!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Silicone Cover is Plastic (39), Not Machine Part (84)."
πΉ "Bag is Textile/Leather (42), Tax is Zero!"
πΉ "Misclassify Part, Tax Doubles; Classify Accessory, Profit Grows!"
π Tips:
- If your key covers are sold with the keyboard, they may be considered "included accessories" and declared with the keyboard (8471.60.20.00, 0% tax).
- If sold separately, they are accessories and taxed under Chapter 39 or 42.
- Always provide photos and material descriptions to Customs Brokers to ensure correct classification.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Confirm HS Code
3926.90.99.89or4202.3x.99.00
π Clear Customs Smoothly, Save Taxes, Increase Profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Tax Saved is Pure Profit!
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.