paint nozzle filter
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8421290015 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8421290040 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926906520 | 14.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
ποΈ Paint Nozzle Filter (Industrial Filtration Components)
π HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Tariff Analysis for US Imports from China
π Product Profile: Precision Filtration for Spray Systems
A Paint Nozzle Filter is a critical functional component used in liquid filtration and purification machinery, specifically within spray painting, coating, and industrial fluid handling systems. Its primary purpose is to prevent nozzle clogging by filtering particulates from paints, solvents, and adhesives.
Depending on its specific material composition and structural integration, customs authorities may classify this item under different Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes. Below is the authoritative breakdown based on the 2026 US Trade Data.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Matrix
| HS Code | Product Description & Logic | Key Classification Criteria |
|---|---|---|
8421.29.00.15 |
As a Filter Element for Liquid Filtration Machinery Classified as a functional filter component matching liquid filtration/purification machinery. |
β
Function First: Designed specifically for liquid filtration devices. β Component Status: A "part of" a larger filtration system. |
8421.29.00.40 |
As Part of Other Liquid Filtration Apparatus Classified as a part/accessory to other liquid filtration apparatus not elsewhere specified. |
β
General Filtration: Fits under the broader "Other Liquid Filtration" category. β System Integration: Used within general liquid processing equipment. |
3926.90.65.20 |
As Plastic Filter Net (Part/Accessory) Classified as a part/accessory of other articles, made of plastic, with no conflicting material restrictions. |
β
Material First: Primary characteristic is plastic construction. β Generic Component: Treated as a general plastic part rather than a specialized mechanical filter unit. |
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the filter is a specialized mechanical component designed for high-precision liquid purification in industrial machines β Group 84 (Machinery).
- If the filter is a simple plastic mesh/net considered a general plastic part/accessory β Group 39 (Plastics).
π° III. 2026 Tariff Rate Breakdown (China Origin β US)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current US Trade Policies (2025-2026)
π― 1. HS Code 8421.29.00.15 & 8421.29.00.40
(Mechanical Liquid Filtration Components)
These two codes share the identical tariff structure due to their classification under machinery parts.
| Component | Rate | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Base Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) Duty | 0.0% | Standard MFN rate for machinery parts. |
| Section 301 Duty (Additional Tariff) | +25.0% | USITC Footnote for Chinese imports under Section 301. |
| Section 122 Duty (Retaliatory/Other) | +10.0% | Specific additional tariff applicable to this classification. |
| π΄ TOTAL EFFECTIVE RATE | 35.0% | 0% + 25% + 10% |
π Explanation:
- The 0% base rate is misleading; the true cost is driven by punitive tariffs.
- 25% (Sec 301): Retaliatory tariffs on Chinese machinery components.
- 10% (Sec 122): Additional layer of taxation for specific filtered items.
- Result: A $10,000 shipment incurs $3,500 in duties.
π― 2. HS Code 3926.90.65.20
(Plastic Filter Net / Plastic Part)
This code offers a significantly lower duty burden due to the classification as a plastic article rather than a mechanical filter.
| Component | Rate | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Base Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) Duty | 4.2% | Standard MFN rate for plastic articles. |
| Section 301 Duty (Additional Tariff) | 0.0% | Note: Data indicates 0% for this specific subheading in this context. |
| Section 122 Duty (Retaliatory/Other) | +10.0% | Specific additional tariff applicable to this plastic classification. |
| π’ TOTAL EFFECTIVE RATE | 14.2% | 4.2% + 0% + 10% |
π Explanation:
- The 4.2% base rate is significantly higher than the 0% in Group 84, but the absence of the 25% Section 301 tariff makes this code far more cost-effective.
- Why is Sec 301 0% here? Often, plastic accessories or non-mechanical nets fall under different tariff exclusions or subheadings that are exempt from the deepest 301 rates, or the data reflects a specific duty exemption for plastic filter nets.
- Result: A $10,000 shipment incurs only $1,420 in duties.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Strategy & Recommendations
β 1. Documentation Requirements (Non-Negotiable)
To ensure smooth clearance and accurate classification, provide:
| Document | Purpose | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | Define Function | Must state: "Filter for paint spray nozzles," material type (Plastic/Metal), micron rating, and dimensions. |
| β Technical Diagram | Prove Classification | Show if it is a standalone "part of machinery" (Group 84) or a simple "plastic mesh" (Group 39). |
| β Material Certificate | Confirm Composition | Crucial for 3926.90.65.20. Must confirm 100% Plastic or plastic dominant composition. |
| β Commercial Invoice | Accurate Description | Use precise language: "Plastic Filter Insert for Paint Nozzle" vs. "Industrial Liquid Filter Element." |
| β Packing List | Value Verification | Ensure CIF value is correctly calculated for duty assessment. |
β 2. Strategic Classification Advice (Cost Saving)
π₯ Key Insight:
Choosing the right HS Code can save you 20.8% in duties!
(35.0%vs14.2%)
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Mesh/Net | 3926.90.65.20 |
14.2% | β RECOMMENDED if the item is a simple plastic filter screen/net. Emphasize "Plastic Part" and "Filter Net." |
| Complex Mechanical Filter | 8421.29.00.15 / .40 |
35.0% | Only use if the filter has a complex housing, metal frame, or is integral to a patented filtration system that cannot be classified as a simple plastic part. |
β 3. Common Pitfalls & Risk Mitigation
β Pitfall 1: Misclassifying Plastic as Mechanical
- Risk: If customs determines your "plastic filter net" is actually a "mechanical filter element," they will reassess at 35%.
- Mitigation: Provide material certificates proving it is a simple plastic mesh without complex mechanical sealing mechanisms.
β Pitfall 2: Vague Descriptions
- Risk: Using generic terms like "Filter" leads to arbitrary classification by CBP officers, potentially resulting in the higher 35% rate or audits.
- Mitigation: Use specific descriptions: "Polypropylene Filter Insert, Plastic, for Paint Spray Nozzle."
β Pitfall 3: Ignoring Section 122 Duty
- Risk: Assuming 0% base duty means 0% total duty.
- Mitigation: Always add the 10% Sec 122 duty in your cost calculations for both codes.
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Est. Duty Rate (China) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.65.20 |
14.2% | Best option for plastic filters. Avoid 8421 due to 35% total. |
| π¨π³ China | 8421.29.00 |
0% - 5% | Imports into China may have different incentives. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8421.29 / 3926.90 |
0% - 4% | EU generally has lower baseline tariffs, but verify CE/RoHS compliance. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8421.29 / 3926.90 |
0% - 4% | Post-Brexit rules may apply; check UK Global Tariff. |
π Conclusion:
For US Imports from China, the Plastic Filter Net (3926.90.65.20) is the strategic winner. It reduces your landed cost significantly by avoiding the 25% Section 301 tariff.
π VI. Actionable Checklist for Exporters
- Audit Product Design: Is the filter a simple plastic mesh? If yes, aim for
3926.90.65.20. - Update Documentation: Ensure invoices describe the item as a "Plastic Filter Net" or "Plastic Part," not just "Paint Nozzle Filter."
- Calculate Landed Cost: Use 14.2% for budgeting if classifying under Group 39. Use 35.0% only if Group 84 is legally unavoidable.
- Consult Customs Broker: Request a Pre-Ruling if the component has mixed materials (e.g., plastic frame + metal mesh) to secure the lower 14.2% rate.
π― Final Advice:
π "Material Matters! A simple plastic net can slash your duty from 35% to 14.2%. Don't leave money on the table with misclassification."
π Need Help?
Contact your customs broker with the HS Code 3926.90.65.20 and material specs to lock in the lower tax rate.
β¨ Precision Classification = Maximum Profitability
πΌ Optimize your supply chain today!
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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.