琴弦
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9202902000 | 22.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9209928000 | 22.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9209926000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4421999880 | 38.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4421919880 | 38.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9202904000 | 26.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
🎻 Guitar Strings (Chordophones Accessories)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Guitar Strings"?
Guitar strings, as essential consumables for stringed musical instruments, are classified based on their material, function, and accompanying components. In international trade, they are generally divided into:
Standard Strings (Single/Sealed Sets): Pure metal or nylon strands used for vibration; no packaging implies individual components.
Pre-packaged/Branded Sets: Strings enclosed in retail packaging, often including accessories like clips, picks, or tuning aids, treated as "parts/accessories of musical instruments."
⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If purely metal/nylon strands without instrument-specific assembly context → Classified under Chapter 95 (Toys/Games) or Chapter 71 (Jewelry/Imitation)? No, strictly under Chapter 92 (Musical Instruments) as parts/accessories.
- If identified as components of a stringed instrument (e.g., violin/guitar strings) → Classified under HS 9209.92 (Parts and accessories of other musical instruments).
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Detail Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
9202.90.20.00 |
Other chordophones (specifically for strings as components of stringed instruments like violins, guitars) | Strings as integral parts of chordophones | Base: 4.5%, Section 301: 7.5%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 22.0% |
9209.92.80.00 |
Parts and accessories of musical instruments (other than those of heading 92.06 or 92.07) | Generic instrument parts/accessories, including strings | Base: 4.6%, Section 301: 7.5%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 22.1% |
9209.92.60.00 |
Parts and accessories of bows and stringed instruments | Specific to bow/string instrument accessories | Base: 0.0%, Section 301: 7.5%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 17.5% |
4421.99.98.80 |
Other wooden articles (fallback category for wooden instrument parts) | Wooden handles/parts of instruments (if misclassified as wood goods) | Base: 3.3%, Section 301: 25.0%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 38.3% |
4421.91.98.80 |
Wooden articles of bamboo or other wood | Wooden material components (e.g., wooden string windings or handles) | Base: 3.3%, Section 301: 25.0%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 38.3% |
9202.90.40.00 |
Other chordophones (generic parts/components) | Broad category for instrument parts | Base: 8.7%, Section 301: 7.5%, 122 Tariff: 10% → Total: 26.2% |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- Pure Metal/Nylon Strings: Should ideally fall under 9209.92.xxxx (Parts/Accessories of Musical Instruments).
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring as "Wooden Articles" (4421) or "Other" (9202.90.20/40) may lead to higher tariffs or customs review.
- Lowest Rate Option:9209.92.60.00offers 0% Base Rate + 7.5% + 10% = 17.5% Total, but requires strict proof of being a "part/accessory of bows/stringed instruments."
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharge & Policy Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: USA (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 9209.92.60.00 — Parts and Accessories of Bows/Stringed Instruments (LOWEST TARIFF)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis for China-origin goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → USITC:9209.92.60.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Explanation:
- This is the most cost-effective classification for guitar strings if they can be legally defined as "parts/accessories of stringed instruments."
- 0% base rate significantly reduces cost burden.
- Must provide documentation proving strings are specifically for musical instruments (not industrial cables or jewelry).
🎯 2. 9202.90.20.00 — Other Chordophones (Component Classification)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 4.5% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 22.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 22.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:9202.90.20.00 |
📌 Note:
- Higher base rate than9209.92.60.00.
- Suitable if strings are considered "parts of chordophones" rather than generic accessories.
🎯 3. 9209.92.80.00 — Other Musical Instrument Parts/Accessories
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 4.6% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 22.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 22.1% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:9209.92.80.00 |
📌 Note:
- "Catch-all" for instrument parts. Slightly higher than9209.92.60.00.
🚫 4. 4421.99.98.80 / 4421.91.98.80 — Wooden Articles (HIGH RISK)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 3.3% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Rate | 38.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 38.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ Not Eligible |
⚠️ Warning:
- If guitar strings are misclassified as "wooden articles" (e.g., confusing with wooden instrument handles), the 301 tariff jumps to 25%, resulting in 38.3% total tax.
- Avoid this classification for metal/nylon strings!
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (实战避坑指南)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (All Mandatory)
| Document | Must Provide | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Material (steel/nylon/copper), gauge, tension, length |
| ✅ Photos (Packaging & Product) | ✔️ | Show brand, label, "For Musical Instrument Use" |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clearly state "Guitar Strings" or "Musical Instrument Parts" |
| ✅ Bill of Lading/Packing List | ✔️ | Weight, dimensions, quantity |
| ✅ Certificate of Origin (CO) | ✔️ | If non-China origin, may qualify for exemptions |
| ✅ Declaration of Non-Industrial Use | ✔️ | Confirm strings are not for industrial machinery or jewelry |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
🔥 "Instrument Part, Not Wood Item, 17.5% is the Target!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Metal/Nylon Strings | 9209.92.60.00 |
Misdeclare as "Wire" or "Cable" → 38.3% |
| Strings with Wooden Packaging | 9209.92.60.00 |
Declare as "Wooden Article" → 38.3% |
| Pre-packaged Retail Sets | 9209.92.60.00 |
Declare as "Toy Accessory" → Unstable classification |
| Bulk Industrial Steel Wire | 7217.20.00.00 |
Use musical instrument HS Code → Misclassification |
✅ 3. Special Cases Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label Strings | Provide brand authorization letter to avoid IP disputes |
| Strings with Picks/Picks in Box | Declare as "Set of Musical Instrument Accessories" under 9209.92.60.00 |
| Wooden Windings (Historical) | Still classify under 9209.92 if for instruments, not 4421 |
| Sample Shipment | Even samples are subject to 17.5%~38.3% tax; not de minimis |
🌍 V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 9209.92.60.00 |
17.5% (Best) | None | 38.3% if misclassified as wood |
| 🇨🇳 China | 9209.92.60.00 |
~6% | CCC (if applicable) | No 301/122 tariffs |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 9209.92.60.00 |
0% | CE (if electronic accessories) | No surcharges |
| 🇬🇧 UK | 9209.92.60.00 |
0% | UKCA | No surcharges |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 9209.92.60.00 |
0% | PSE (if powered) | No surcharges |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA is the highest-cost market due to 301 & 122 tariffs.
- EU/UK/Japan offer 0% base duty, making them more favorable for export.
- Accuracy is critical: Misclassification as "Wood" (4421) in the US leads to 38.3% tax, nearly double the correct rate.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
❌ Error 1: Declaring "Guitar Strings" as "Steel Wire" (7217)
👉 Consequence: Higher base rate + possible anti-dumping duties → Cost increase 10%+.
❌ Error 2: Misclassifying as "Wooden Articles" (4421)
👉 Consequence: 38.3% total tax (25% Section 301) → Massive cost spike.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring "122 Tariff" (IEEPA 10%)
👉 Consequence: Under-declaring tax → Customs penalty + back taxes.
❌ Error 4: Using vague description "Musical Parts"
👉 Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 9209.92.80.00 (22.1%) → Loss of 17.5% advantage.
✅ Correct Approach:
"Guitar Strings, Steel/Nylon, for Musical Instruments, Brand XYZ, Model ABC, Packaged in Retail Box"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Save Money, Smooth Clearance!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "String as Part, Not Wood, 17.5% is the Goal!"
🔹 "HS Code Determines Tax, 20% Difference is Huge!"
📌 Pro Tip:
If your strings are originating from Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may qualify for IEEPA Exemption, reducing tax to 0%~5%.
Recommend applying for Advance Ruling before shipment to secure the 17.5% rate.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Consult a professional customs broker + Provide Product Photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
🚀 Ensure your guitar strings clear customs smoothly, maximize profits!
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Cent Counts in Global 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) — 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.