shoelace tip
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926908500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5609004000 | 38.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5609001000 | 37.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8308100000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8308909000 | 37.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Shoelace Tips (Aglets) β The Small Hardware with Big Compliance Risks
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Shoelace Tips"?
Shoelace Tips, commonly known as Aglets, are the small components at the ends of shoelaces that prevent fraying and facilitate threading through eyelets. In international trade, these seemingly simple items are classified under two distinct categories depending on their material composition and intended use.
There are two primary types: 1. Metal Aglets: Typically made of brass, nickel, or iron. These fall under "Base Metal Articles." 2. Plastic Aglets: Typically made of PVC, nylon, or polyethylene. These fall under "Articles of Plastics."
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If made of base metal β Classified under Chapter 83 (Base Metal Articles)
- If made of plastics β Classified under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof)
- Do NOT classify under Chapter 61/62 (Apparel) as they are considered "parts/accessories," not the clothing itself.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authoritative Comparison)
Based on the provided data <DATA>, here are the specific HS Codes for Shoelace Tips (Aglets):
| HS Code | Product Description | Material | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8308.10.00.00 | Hooks, eyes, and eyelets (and similar fasteners) | Base Metal | Metal aglets, metal eyelets, metal hooks used for footwear, leather goods, or clothing. |
| 8308.90.90.00 | Other fasteners, including parts; Other | Base Metal | Other metal clasps, buckles, or non-specified metal fasteners for footwear/leather goods. |
| 3926.90.99.89 | Other articles of plastics; Other | Plastics | Plastic aglets that do not fit specific subheadings for clips or fasteners. |
| 3926.90.85.00 | Fasteners, in clips suitable for use in a mechanical attaching device | Plastics | Plastic aglets designed as clip-on fasteners for mechanical attachment. |
π Important Note:
- Shoelace Tips are primarily classified under 8308 if metal, or 3926 if plastic.
- Ensure the declaration specifies "Aglets" or "Shoelace Ends" to avoid confusion with general hardware or apparel parts.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Detailed Explanation (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current tariff structure applies.
π― 1. 8308.10.00.00 β Hooks, Eyes, and Eyelets (Base Metal)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301/IEEPA) | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | Base Tariff: 0.0%, Additional Tariff: 0.0% |
π Explanation:
- Metal fasteners, hooks, eyes, and metal aglets specifically listed under 8308.10 enjoy a 0% tariff.
- This is a zero-tariff classification, making it highly favorable for clearance.
- No Section 301 or IEEPA surcharges apply to this specific subheading.
π― 2. 8308.90.90.00 β Other Base Metal Fasteners
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301/IEEPA) | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Detail | Base Tariff: 0.0%, Additional Tariff: 0.0% |
π Explanation:
- If the aglet is metal but does not fit the "hooks/eyes" description (e.g., a unique clasp-style aglet), it may fall under 8308.90.
- Also enjoys a 0% total tariff.
- No additional surcharges apply.
π― 3. 3926.90.99.89 β Other Plastic Articles (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 5.3% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301/IEEPA) | 7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 12.8% |
| Tax Detail | Base Tariff: 5.3%, Additional Tariff: 7.5% |
π Explanation:
- Generic plastic aglets that do not fit the "clip" definition fall here.
- Subject to both base tariff and additional tariffs.
- Total cost impact: 12.8% of CIF value.
π― 4. 3926.90.85.00 β Plastic Fasteners (Clips)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 6.5% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301/IEEPA) | 7.5% |
| Total Tax Rate | 14.0% |
| Tax Detail | Base Tariff: 6.5%, Additional Tariff: 7.5% |
π Explanation:
- If aglets are designed as clip-on fasteners for mechanical attachment.
- Highest tariff rate among the options: 14.0%.
- Avoid this classification unless the aglet is explicitly a mechanical clip.
π οΈ IV. Practical Clearance Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must specify material (Metal vs. Plastic) and type (Aglet/Hook/Clip). |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Clearly state "Base Metal" (e.g., Brass, Nickel) or "Plastic" (e.g., PVC, Nylon). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Use precise terminology: "Shoelace Tips (Aglets)" or "Metal Eyelets." Avoid vague terms like "Accessories." |
| β Photos | βοΈ | Show close-up of the tip to confirm material and structure. |
| β HS Code Justification | βοΈ | If challenged, provide evidence that the item is a "fastener" or "eyelet" under Chapter 83. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Metal is Zero, Plastic is Taxed, Be Precise to Save Cash!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Aglets | 8308.10.00.00 |
Declare as "Plastic Accessories" β 12.8% tax! |
| Plastic Aglets (Generic) | 3926.90.99.89 |
Declare as "Metal" β False declaration, penalties! |
| Plastic Clip Aglets | 3926.90.85.00 |
Declare as "Other Plastic" β 14.0% vs 12.8% (minor, but be accurate). |
| Mixed Shipment | Split HS Codes | Mix metal and plastic under one code β Audit risk! |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Material Aglets | If the aglet has a metal core and plastic cover, determine the essential character. Often still classified under base metal if metal is dominant. Consult a customs broker. |
| OEM Custom Aglets | Provide design files to prove they are "fasteners" and not general hardware. |
| Sample Shipments | Even for samples, declare correctly. Misclassification can lead to future audits. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8308.10.00.00 (Metal) |
0.0% | Zero tariff for metal aglets. Plastic aglets taxed at 12.8%-14.0%. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3926.90.99.89 (Plastic) |
12.8% | Significant tariff impact for plastic items. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8308.10 / 3926.90 |
Varies (usually 0-2%) | Generally lower tariffs than US, but VAT applies. |
| π¨π³ China | 8308.10 / 3926.90 |
Varies | Import duties apply for re-export or domestic sale. |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers 0% tariff for metal shoelace tips, making metal aglets a cost-effective choice for US-bound shipments.
- Plastic aglets face double-digit tariffs in the US, impacting margins. Consider material substitution if cost is critical.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Metal Aglets as "Plastic Accessories"
π Consequence: Paying 12.8% instead of 0%. Overpayment!
β Mistake 2: Declaring Plastic Aglets as "Base Metal"
π Consequence: Customs Fraud Risk, fines, and seizure. Illegal!
β Mistake 3: Vague Description "Shoelace Parts"
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to a higher-tariff category or delay shipment for inspection. Delays!
β Mistake 4: Mixing Metal and Plastic in One HS Code Line Item
π Consequence: Audit Trigger. Must split into separate line items. Compliance Risk!
β Correct Practice:
"Metal Shoelace Tips (Aglets), Brass, 8mm, HS 8308.10.00.00"
"Plastic Shoelace Tips (Aglets), PVC, 8mm, HS 3926.90.99.89"
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Zero Hassle!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Metal Aglets = 0% Tariff, Plastic Aglets = 12.8-14% Tariff"
πΉ "Declare Material Clearly, Avoid Fines and Delays!"
π Pro Tip:
If your shipment contains both metal and plastic aglets, ensure they are listed as separate line items on the commercial invoice. Merging them into one generic "shoe accessories" line can lead to incorrect tariff application and customs delays.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify your aglet material composition.
π Choose the correct HS Code (8308.10.00.00for metal,3926.90.99.89for plastic).
πΌ Save money, speed up clearance, and stay compliant!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent counts in international trade!
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.