玻璃纸
CN → USAI Analysis
📦 Cellophane (Transparent Wrapping Film / Cellulose-Based Films)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Cellophane"?
In international trade, "Cellophane" is a common trade name often used loosely to describe various transparent packaging films. However, under the Harmonized System (HS), it strictly refers to cellulose-based transparent films (regenerated cellulose). It is crucial to distinguish this from modern synthetic plastics (like PET, PP, or PE), which have entirely different classification rules.
Key Distinctions:
* True Cellophane (Cellulose): Made from wood pulp (natural polymer). Biodegradable, breaths well.
→ Usually falls under Chapter 48 (Paper/Paperboard) or Chapter 46 (if woven).
* Synthetic Plastic Films (PET/PP/PE): Made from petroleum-based polymers.
→ Falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics).
⚠️ Critical Clarification:
- If the product is plain cellulose film (uncoated or simply coated) → Chapter 48.
- If the product is cellulose film backed with paper → Chapter 48 (Paper).
- If the product is plastic film (even if called "Cellophane" by marketing) → Chapter 39.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
4811.51.00.00 |
Cellophane, whether or not printed, in sheets or rolls | Standard transparent wrapping for gifts, confectionery, cosmetics | Cellulose-based (Regenerated Cellulose) |
4811.52.00.00 |
Cellophane, other than that of subheading 4811.51 | Heavier gauge, industrial packaging, uncoated or coated | Cellulose-based |
4811.60.00.00 |
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, flat roll | Adhesive labels, tape backing made of cellulose | Cellulose + Adhesive |
4811.90.00.00 |
Other paper and paperboard | Non-cellophane specialty papers | Paperboard/Cotton/Linen |
3920.10.00.00 |
Plates, sheets, film, flexible, of Cellulose Esters/Ethers | Note: Some specific synthetic esters may fall here if not cellulose | Synthetic Polymer (e.g., Cellophane substitutes) |
3921.90.00.00 |
Other plates, sheets, film, flexible | General plastic packaging (PET, OPP, etc.) | Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PET |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- Do NOT confuse "Cellophane" with "Plastic Wrap". If your supplier says "Cellophane" but it’s stretchy and made of PE (Polyethylene), it is NOT HS4811. It is likely HS3920or3921. - Chapter 48 items are generally treated as Paper/Paperboard products, not Plastics. This significantly affects duty rates and regulations.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 4811.51.00.00 & 4811.52.00.00 — Cellophane (Cellulose-based)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 1.7% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% (Not subject to Section 301) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% (Specific to China/Hong Kong origin, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Rate | 11.7% |
| Calculation | CIF Value × 11.7% |
| De Minimis Eligible? | ❌ No (Generally, paper products over $800 do not qualify for de minimis under current strict enforcement for certain chapters, though small shipments may still be reviewed. Note: Check specific CBP rulings for low-value parcels.) |
| Legal Basis | USITC:4811.51.00.00 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
📌 Explanation:
- Unlike many plastic products (Chapter 39) which may face higher surcharges, Cellulose-based Cellophane is often classified as a paper product (Chapter 48). - However, the 10% IEEPA surcharge still applies to Chinese-origin goods in this category. - Total Duty is 11.7%, which is moderate compared to electronics or textiles.
🎯 2. 4811.60.00.00 — Self-Adhesive Cellophane
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Rate | 10% |
| Calculation | CIF Value × 10% |
| De Minimis Eligible? | ❌ No |
| Legal Basis | USITC:4811.60.00.00 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
📌 Note:
- Self-adhesive products often have lower base rates but still bear the 10% IEEPA surcharge.
🛠️ IV. Practical Clearance Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
✅ 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Must specify Material Composition (e.g., "100% Regenerated Cellulose" vs. "Polyethylene"). |
| ✅ Physical Sample | ✔️ | Customs may request a sample to burn-test or visually inspect to distinguish from plastic. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clearly state: "Cellophane Film, Cellulose-based, for Gift Wrapping." Avoid vague terms like "Plastic Wrap." |
| ✅ Certificate of Origin (CO) | ✔️ | To prove origin for IEEPA assessment. |
| ✅ Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | ✔️ | For handling instructions, especially if coated with adhesives or inks. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
🔥 "Cellulose is Paper, Plastic is Plastic. Name it Right, Avoid the Tax Clash!"
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| True Cellophane (Cellulose) | 4811.51.00.00 ("Cellophane, Cellulose") |
Declaring as "Plastic Film" → Wrong Chapter, potential penalty |
| PET/OPP Film (Market-called "Cellophane") | 3920.10.00.00 or 3921.90.00.00 ("Plastic Film, PET") |
Declaring as "Cellophane" → Misclassification, audit risk |
| Adhesive Labels (Cellulose Base) | 4811.60.00.00 |
Declaring as general paper → Higher duty risk |
| Small Parcel (<$800) | Check De Minimis Rules | Assuming all small packages are duty-free |
✅ 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Coated Cellophane | If coated with plastic (e.g., PE coating), it may still be 4811 if the paper/cellulose is the essential character. Provide technical data. |
| Printed Cellophane | Printed cellulose film still falls under 4811.51. Printing does not change the classification. |
| OEM Custom Size | Provide roll dimensions (width, length, core size) on the invoice. |
| Food-Grade Cellophane | Ensure FDA compliance documentation is available if intended for food contact in the US. |
🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 4811.51.00.00 |
11.7% (CN) | FDA (if food contact) | IEEPA 10% applies |
| 🇨🇳 China | 4811.51.00.00 |
5.0% | None specific | Base duty + VAT 13% |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 4811.51.00.00 |
6.5% | CE (if applicable) | No IEEPA equivalent, but standard MFN |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 4811.51.00.00 |
5.0% | NMI (National Measurement Institute) | GST 10% applies |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 4811.51.00.00 |
6.0% | PSE (if electrical, not applicable) | Consumption tax 10% |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA imposes a 10% IEEPA surcharge on Chinese-origin Cellophane, making the total rate 11.7%.
- EU/Asia rates are stable (5-6.5%), with no political surcharges.
- Critical Risk: Misclassifying plastic film as "Cellophane" can lead to higher duties if plastic rates are higher, or penalties for false declaration.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
❌ Error 1: Declaring PET Film as "Cellophane"
👉 Consequence: Customs may reclassify to Chapter 39 (Plastics), potentially changing the duty rate and requiring FDA/CE certifications not originally prepared.
❌ Error 2: Not specifying "Cellulose-based" on the Invoice
👉 Consequence: Customs officers may assume it is plastic due to the common name, leading to delays or requests for additional samples.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring IEEPA Surcharges for Chinese Goods
👉 Consequence: Unexpected 10% extra cost at US border, eroding profit margins.
❌ Error 4: Mixing Adhesive Cellophane with Non-Adhesive in one shipment
👉 Consequence: Different HS Codes (4811.60 vs 4811.51). Must be split on the Commercial Invoice to avoid audit flags.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Cellophane Film, Regenerated Cellulose, Uncoated, Roll Width 30cm, For Gift Packaging, Origin China"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Control, Efficiency!
🎯 Remember the Mnemonic:
🔹 "Cellulose = Paper (Ch48), Plastic = Plastic (Ch39). Name it True, Save the Fee!"
🔹 "10% IEEPA for China, 11.7% Total in USA. Know the Material, Avoid the Bother."
📌 Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes (container load), consider Advance Rulings from CBP (Customs and Border Protection) to confirm the HS Code and duty rate before shipment. This provides legal certainty and prevents surprise fees.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact your freight forwarder with Material Composition Details
📄 Prepare Spec Sheets distinguishing Cellulose from Plastic
🚀 Ensure Clear Description on Invoice: "Cellulose-based Cellophane"
✨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Percent 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) — 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.