tail fin
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4016100000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9506290080 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9506290080 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4016996050 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926903000 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
πββοΈ Tail Fin (Hydrofoil / Surfboard Fin)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand the "Tail Fin"?
The Tail Fin, often referred to as a hydrofoil or surf fin, is a critical component for water sports equipment, providing stability, steering, and lift. In international trade, its classification depends heavily on material composition and specific usage context. It is generally categorized under either Rubber Articles, Plastic Articles, or specific Water Sports Equipment Parts.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If made of Rubber β Classified under Chapter 40 (Rubber Products); - If made of Plastic or generic sports parts β Classified under Chapter 95 (Sports Equipment); - Note: The "122 Clause" (Section 301/IEEPA) surcharges apply differently based on the material classification.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, the Tail Fin is analyzed across five potential HS Codes. Note that while some codes are repeated, the summaries highlight different material assumptions or regulatory interpretations.
| HS Code | Product Description / Logic | Material Assumption | Total Tax Rate | Tax Detail Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4016.10.00.00 | Rubber Accessories / Parts: Tail fin classified as parts/components of rubber products, falling under the "catch-all" rule for Other vulcanized rubber articles. | Rubber | 35.0% | Base: 0.0% Add-on (301): 25.0% 122 Clause: 10% |
| 9506.29.00.80 | Water Sports Equipment Parts: Classified as parts/accessories of water sports equipment, aligning with Other water sports equipment and its parts/accessories. | General/Composite | 17.5% | Base: 0.0% Add-on (301): 7.5% 122 Clause: 10% |
| 9506.29.00.80 | Water Sports Parts (Material Variance): Belongs to parts/accessories for water sports equipment; materials typically plastic or rubber, matching usage. | Plastic/Rubber | 17.5% | Base: 0.0% Add-on (301): 7.5% 122 Clause: 10% |
| 4016.99.60.50 | Mechanical/Sports Parts: Tail fin as a mechanical or sports part, usually rubber/plastic/metal, judged to possibly fit Other vulcanized rubber articles. | Rubber (Mixed) | 37.5% | Base: 2.5% Add-on (301): 25.0% 122 Clause: 10% |
| 3926.90.30.00 | Plastic Accessories: Tail fin as a boat accessory, presumed to be plastic material, fitting the default matching principle for plastic spare parts. | Plastic | 39.2% | Base: 4.2% Add-on (301): 25.0% 122 Clause: 10% |
π Critical Analysis: - Best Rate Scenario:
9506.29.00.80offers the lowest total tax (17.5%) if the customs authority accepts it as a generic "water sports equipment part" regardless of specific material nuance. - Worst Rate Scenario:3926.90.30.00(Plastic) incurs the highest total tax (39.2%) due to the high base tariff (4.2%) plus full surcharges. - Risk Factor: Classification under Chapter 40 (Rubber) triggers a high 25% Add-on Tariff, plus the 10% 122 Clause tariff.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: 2025/2026 (Subject to current trade policies)
π― 1. 4016.10.00.00 / 4016.99.60.50 ββ Rubber Tail Fins
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (for .10) or 2.5% (for .99) |
| Section 301 Add-on | +25% |
| 122 Clause Tariff | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 35.0% ~ 37.5% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ (35%~37.5%) |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (High value, specific HS code restrictions) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:4016.xxxx β FOOTNOTE:301/303 β IEEPA:122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- The 25% Add-on is standard for Chinese rubber goods under Trade Section 301. - The 10% 122 Clause is a specific additional duty often applied to Chinese imports to offset unfair practices. - Result: A very high duty burden. If your tail fins are rubber, this is the likely cost.
π― 2. 9506.29.00.80 ββ Water Sports Equipment Parts (Plastic/Composite)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Add-on | +7.5% |
| 122 Clause Tariff | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 17.5% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check Specific Limits (Often lower thresholds for sports goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:9506.29.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 (Partial) β IEEPA:122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- This is the most favorable classification if accepted. - The Section 301 add-on is significantly lower (7.5% vs 25%) for certain sports equipment components. - However, Customs may challenge this if the material is predominantly rubber, potentially reclassifying to Chapter 40.
π― 3. 3926.90.30.00 ββ Plastic Tail Fins (Boat Accessories)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.2% |
| Section 301 Add-on | +25% |
| 122 Clause Tariff | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 39.2% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.2% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3926.90.30 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 Clause |
π Explanation:
- Even though it is plastic, the classification as a "boat accessory" rather than a "sporting good" triggers the higher base tariff and full surcharges. - Avoid this code if possible, as it is the most expensive.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (None Missing)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specs Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail material (e.g., "100% Vulcanized Rubber" vs. "Reinforced Plastic"). |
| β Material Composition Report | βοΈ | Crucial for distinguishing between Chapter 40 (Rubber) and 95 (Sports). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing the fin shape, mounting mechanism, and any branding. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Tail Fin for Surfboard" or "Hydrofoil Fin". Avoid generic "Plastic Part". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Ensure quantities match the invoice. |
| β Usage Statement | βοΈ | Confirm it is used for personal water sports, not industrial propulsion. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βMaterial is King, Usage is Queen. 9506 Wins if Sports.β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Fin for Surfing | Attempt 9506.29.00.80 with proof of sports use. Risk: May be reclassified to 4016 (35%+). |
Declare as 3926 (Plastic) if rubber β High Penalty. |
| Plastic Fin for Surfing | Declare as 9506.29.00.80 (17.5%). |
Declare as 3926.90.30.00 (39.2%) β Overpay by ~22%. |
| Industrial Boat Fin | Likely 4016 or 3926. |
Declare as 9506 β Customs rejection for non-sport use. |
β 3. Special Handling Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Composite Material | If fin is rubber core + plastic coating, argue for 9506 as the essential character is sports performance. |
| OEM/White Label | Provide customer order showing final use is surfing/water sports. |
| High Value Fins | Consider applying for an Advance Ruling to lock in the 9506 rate before shipment. |
| Small Samples | Check if de minimis rules apply (unlikely for high-duty items, but verify current thresholds). |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Est. Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9506.29.00.80 |
17.5% (if accepted) | FCC (if electronic), Non-Essential | High risk of reclassification to 4016 (35%+). |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9506.29.00.80 |
0% - 4% | CE (if applicable), REACH | Lower tariffs, less aggressive surcharges than US. |
| π¨π³ China | 9506.29.00.80 |
0% (Export) | N/A | Export duty is usually 0%. Focus on import duties in destination. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9506.29.00.80 |
0% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules similar to EU but separate certification. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 9506.29.00.80 |
5% | RCM | Moderate tariffs, standard compliance. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most challenging market due to the 122 Clause and Section 301 surcharges. - Strategy: Argue strongly for9506.29.00.80to save ~17-22% in duties compared to rubber/plastic accessory codes.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a Rubber Tail Fin as "Plastic Part" (3926)
π Consequence: Higher base tariff (4.2% vs 0%) + Full Surcharges β 39.2% Total.
β
Fix: Declare based on actual material or use 9506 if sports equipment logic applies.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the "122 Clause"
π Consequence: Under-declaration of duty by 10% β Audit Risk & Penalties.
β
Fix: Always include 10% 122 Clause in cost calculations for Chinese goods.
β Mistake 3: Using Generic Descriptions like "Sports Part"
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine HS Code β Delay + Inspection.
β
Fix: Use precise terms: "Surfboard Tail Fin, Vulcanized Rubber, Model XYZ".
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Savings!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Sports Use Wins (9506), Rubber Costs More (4016), Plastic Accessories Pay Highest (3926)."
πΉ "122 Clause is Always 10%, 301 Varies: 25% for Rubber/Plastic Goods, 7.5% for Sports Equipment."
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes to the US, apply for an Advance Ruling to confirm if your specific Tail Fin material qualifies for 9506.29.00.80. This can save you thousands of dollars in duties.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker + Provide Material MSDS + Request HS Code Pre-classification
π Ensure Smooth Clearance, Maximize Profit, Stay Compliant!
β¨ Professional Customs, Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every Penny 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.