sky lanterns
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9505906000 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3604900000 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3604109050 | 15.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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🏮 Sky Lanterns (Kongming Lanterns)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Sky Lanterns"?
Sky Lanterns, also known as Kongming Lanterns, are traditional festive items used in celebrations, rituals, and entertainment. In international trade, their classification varies significantly based on their structural composition and propulsion mechanism. The key distinction lies in whether they are classified as simple festive novelties (paper/film) or as pyrotechnic/fuse items (fireworks).
⚠️ Critical Distinction:
- If the lantern relies on hot air physics (combustible material heats air to create lift, no explosive charge) → Often classified under Festive/Entertainment Goods or specific Fireworks sub-categories depending on local interpretation.
- If classified strictly as a Pyrotechnic Product (generating heat/lift via burning compounds) → It may fall under specific Fireworks headings, triggering higher duties.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, Sky Lanterns fall into three primary HS Codes. Each reflects a different regulatory interpretation:
| HS Code | Product Description | Interpretation Basis | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9505.90.60.00 | Festive/Entertainment Articles | Classified as a cultural/festive item made of paper or thin film material. | 10.0% |
| 3604.90.00.00 | Other Pyrotechnic Articles | Classified as a firework item driven by gunpowder/heat generation, fitting "other pyrotechnic goods." | 24.0% |
| 3604.10.90.50 | Other Fireworks | Classified as a firework product that rises by combustion-generated heat, falling under "other fireworks." | 15.3% |
🔍 Key Insight:
- The lowest tax rate (10%) applies when the lantern is viewed purely as a festive paper/film article (9505).
- The highest tax rate (24%) applies when it is strictly regulated as a pyrotechnic item (3604) due to the presence of combustible fuel.
- The middle rate (15.3%) applies when classified specifically under fireworks sub-headings that account for heat-driven ascent.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
✅ Applicable Market: USA (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: Post-2025 policies (including Section 122 tariffs)
🎯 1. 9505.90.60.00 —— Festive, Entertainment & Folklore Items
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Product Summary | Sky lanterns classified as festive/entertainment items, made of paper or thin film materials. |
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Trade War/301) | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 10% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ No (High tax rate usually restricts de minimis exemptions for China-origin goods in many contexts) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:9505.90.60.00 → Section 122: 10% |
📌 Explanation:
- This is the most favorable classification for Sky Lanterns.
- By defining the product as a "festive article" made of "paper or film," it avoids the stricter pyrotechnic regulations.
- The 10% tariff is solely due to Section 122 measures, which do not apply to base or standard 301 tariffs in this specific classification context.
🎯 2. 3604.90.00.00 —— Other Pyrotechnic Articles
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Product Summary | Sky lanterns classified as pyrotechnic items driven by gunpowder/heat, fitting "other pyrotechnic goods." |
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Additional Tariff (Trade War/301) | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 24.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 24% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3604.90.00.00 → Base 6.5% + 301/Additional 7.5% + Section 122 10% |
📌 Explanation:
- This classification triggers all three tax layers.
- The 24% total is the highest risk. It treats the lantern as a hazardous/pyrotechnic good, incurring base duties, trade war surcharges, and Section 122 penalties.
🎯 3. 3604.10.90.50 —— Other Fireworks (Heat-Driven)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Product Summary | Sky lanterns classified as firework products rising via combustion heat, fitting "other fireworks." |
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Additional Tariff (Trade War/301) | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 15.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 15.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3604.10.90.50 → Base 5.3% + Section 122 10% |
📌 Explanation:
- This is a middle-ground classification.
- It recognizes the product as a firework but benefits from a 0% additional tariff in this specific sub-heading (possibly due to specific HTSUS nuances or exemptions for certain firework types).
- However, the Section 122 10% still applies, bringing the total to 15.3%.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
✅ 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specifications | ✔️ | Must detail materials (paper/film), fuel type, and weight. |
| ✅ Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | ✔️ | Critical if classified as pyrotechnic (3604). |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Must clearly describe the item to support the HS Code chosen. |
| ✅ Material Composition Certificate | ✔️ | To prove "paper/film" construction for 9505 classification. |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Itemize quantities and weights. |
✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonics)
🔥 "Paper & Film for 10%, Firework Fuel for 24%! Describe Accurately to Save Cash!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Risk if Incorrect |
|---|---|---|
| Paper/Film Lantern, No Explosive Charge | 9505.90.60.00 |
Misclassified as 3604 → 14-15% higher tax |
| Lantern with Pyrotechnic Fuel Rod | 3604.10.90.50 or 3604.90.00.00 |
Claiming 9505 → Audits, Penalties, Seizure |
| Combined Set (Lantern + Fuel) | 3604.90.00.00 |
Splitting shipment → Complex Clearance, Higher Fees |
✅ 3. Special Cases & Recommendations
| Case | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Lanterns | Provide design drawings showing paper construction to support 9505 classification. |
| Small Quantities (De Minimis) | High Risk: Even if under $800, US Customs may scrutinize pyrotechnic items. Verify current de minimis rules for China-origin pyrotechnics. |
| Transportation | If classified under 3604, it may require IATA/IMO Dangerous Goods declarations. 9505 items generally do not. |
| Pre-Ruling | Highly Recommended: Apply for an Advance Ruling from CBP to confirm the correct HS Code before shipment. |
🌍 V. Global Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tax Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 9505.90.60.00 |
10% | None | Best for paper/film lanterns. Avoid 3604 if possible. |
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3604.90.00.00 |
24% | DOT/FMCSR | Highest tax, strict safety regs. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 9505.00 |
0-15% | CE/EN15947 | Strict fire safety standards. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 9505.90 |
0-10% | CCC (if applicable) | Export-focused classification. |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA is the primary market with significant tariff implications based on classification.
- Opt for9505.90.60.00if your lanterns are traditional paper/film types without complex pyrotechnic charges. This saves 14-15% in tariffs compared to pyrotechnic classifications.
📌 VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
❌ Mistake 1: Classifying all sky lanterns as 3604.90.00.00
👉 Consequence: Paying 24% instead of 10%.
👉 Solution: Prove paper/film construction to qualify for 9505.
❌ Mistake 2: Failing to declare fuel components
👉 Consequence: If the lantern contains a fuel block, it must be declared as a pyrotechnic item. Hiding this leads to smuggling charges or seizure.
👉 Solution: Accurately describe the fuel type and weight.
❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring Section 122 Tariffs
👉 Consequence: Unexpected 10% surcharge on all classifications.
👉 Solution: Factor this into your landed cost calculations immediately.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Paper Sky Lantern, Traditional Design, Paper & Film Material, Non-Explosive, Model XYZ"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Maximize Profit!
🎯 Remember the Mnemonic:
🔹 "Paper & Film = 10% (Win!)"
🔹 "Pyrotechnic/Fuel = 15-24% (Risk!)"
🔹 "HS Code Dictates Duty, Classification Saves Thousands!"
📌 Pro Tip:
- If your lanterns are simple paper/film, insist on 9505.90.60.00 to pay only 10%.
- If they contain pyrotechnic fuel, prepare for 15-24% duties and ensure full compliance with safety regulations.
- Always consult a customs broker for an Advance Ruling to lock in the correct classification and avoid post-import audits.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact a Licensed Customs Broker
📄 Provide Product Photos & Material Specs
🚀 Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
💰 Optimize Your Landed Cost by Choosing the Right HS Code!
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Percent 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) — 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.