耳环背
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7116200500 | 13.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7116201500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7117909000 | 28.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
📿 Earring Backs (Monitors for Automatic Data Processing Machines)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 1. Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Earring Backs"?
Earring backs are the critical hardware components that secure earrings to the earlobe. In international trade, they are categorized based on their material composition. Even though they are small accessories, their classification drastically changes the tariff burden under US-China trade policies.
Key Distinction Points:
- If made of precious stones/metals → Classified under Chapter 71 (Jewelry).
- If made of base metals or imitation materials → Classified under Chapter 71 but as "Imitation Jewelry."
⚠️ Critical Note:
- Earring backs are rarely classified as "parts" of earrings in Chapter 85 or 71 other than the specific jewelry headings. They fall strictly under Heading 7116 or 7117 depending on material.
- Misclassification leads to massive tariff discrepancies (from 13.3% to 28.5%).
📦 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Material Composition | Applicable Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
7116.20.05.00 |
Articles of natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones | Gems/Semi-gems | High-end jewelry backs; precious stone accents |
7116.20.15.00 |
Other articles of precious metal or metal clad with precious metal | Precious/Semi-precious metals | Gold/silver/platinum plated or solid precious metal backs |
7117.90.90.00 |
Imitation jewelry (base metal, plastic, glass, etc.) | Non-precious materials | Costume jewelry, plastic clips, base metal posts |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- Material dictates the code.
-7116.20.05.00is for gemstone-based items.
-7116.20.15.00is for precious metal-based items.
-7117.90.90.00is for imitation (non-precious) items.
💰 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Add-ons & Policy Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Time: 2025/2026 (Current Policy)
🎯 1. 7116.20.05.00 — Jewelry of Precious/Semi-Precious Stones
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 3.3% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 13.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 13.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:7116.20.05.00 → FOOTNOTE:122 |
📌 Explanation:
- This is the lowest tariff tier among the three options.
- Suitable for high-value, gem-encrusted earring backs.
- The 10% Section 122 tariff is the only major surcharge here.
🎯 2. 7116.20.15.00 — Jewelry of Precious Metal/Semi-Precious Metal
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.5% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 24.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 24.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:7116.20.15.00 → FOOTNOTE:301 → FOOTNOTE:122 |
📌 Explanation:
- Applies to gold, silver, platinum, or clad earring backs.
- Higher basic tariff (6.5%) plus 7.5% Section 301 and 10% Section 122.
- Significant cost increase compared to gem-based items.
🎯 3. 7117.90.90.00 — Imitation Jewelry (Non-Precious Materials)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 11.0% |
| Section 301 Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 28.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 28.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:7117.90.90.00 → FOOTNOTE:301 → FOOTNOTE:122 |
📌 Explanation:
- Applies to plastic, base metal, glass, or costume earring backs.
- Highest tariff rate (28.5%) due to the highest basic tariff (11%) combined with all surcharges.
- Warning: Even "cheap" costume jewelry carries a heavy tax burden under current US-China trade rules.
🛠️ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Material composition (e.g., "Zinc Alloy with Gold Plating," "Swarovski Crystal Back") |
| ✅ Material Certification | ✔️ | Proof of precious/non-precious status (e.g., assay report for metals) |
| ✅ Product Photos | ✔️ | Clear images of the back clasp, materials, and any gemstone settings |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Accurately describe item as "Earring Backs" or "Jewelry Fittings" with material details |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Include weight and quantity |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
🔥 "Material Defines Code, Code Defines Cost!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Error Result |
|---|---|---|
| Gemstone/Stone Backs | 7116.20.05.00 (13.3%) |
Misdeclared as imitation → 28.5% |
| Gold/Silver/Platinum Backs | 7116.20.15.00 (24.0%) |
Misdeclared as base metal → 28.5% |
| Plastic/Base Metal Backs | 7117.90.90.00 (28.5%) |
Misdeclared as precious metal → 24.0% (underpayment penalty risk) |
✅ 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Material Orders | If a single shipment contains both gem-based and imitation backs, split the declaration to apply the correct rates to each. Do not lump them under one code. |
| OEM Custom Backs | Provide design blueprints and material samples to Customs for pre-classification ruling. |
| Small Quantity Samples | Even for samples, if the total value exceeds de minimis thresholds (or if de minimis is denied for these HS codes), full duties apply. Do not rely on de minimis. |
🌍 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 7116.20.05.00 / 7116.20.15.00 / 7117.90.90.00 |
13.3% - 28.5% | None specific | High tariffs due to Section 301 & 122 |
| 🇨🇳 China | 7116.20.05.00 / 7116.20.15.00 / 7117.90.90.00 |
Varies (5%-11%) | CCC (if applicable) | No Section 301 surcharges |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 7116.20.05.00 / 7116.20.15.00 / 7117.90.90.00 |
Varies (0%-7.5%) | REACH, CPSR | No Section 122/301 surcharges |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 7116.20.05.00 / 7116.20.15.00 / 7117.90.90.00 |
Varies (5%-10%) | Australian Standards | Lower baseline tariffs |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA has the highest effective tariff rate due to additional policy surcharges (Section 301 & 122).
- Material selection is critical for cost optimization in the US market.
- Gem-based items (13.3%) are significantly cheaper to import than imitation items (28.5%) in the US.
📌 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
❌ Mistake 1: Declaring all earring backs as "1234.56.78" (Generic Jewelry Fittings)
👉 Consequence: Customs rejection, audits, and potential penalties. Must use specific HS codes.
❌ Mistake 2: Misdeclaring precious metal backs as "imitation" to avoid 24% tariff
👉 Consequence: Customs inspection will reveal the material, leading to back taxes + fines.
❌ Mistake 3: Assuming de minimis applies
👉 Consequence: De minimis is denied for these HS codes under current US-China trade rules. Full duties apply even for small samples.
❌ Mistake 4: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
👉 Consequence: Unexpected 10% surcharge on all jewelry imports from China. Budget accordingly.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Earring Backs, 18K Gold Plated, Zinc Alloy Base, Model XYZ, for Retail Packaging"
🎯 7. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Gem Backs: 13.3%, Metal Backs: 24.0%, Plastic Backs: 28.5%."
🔹 "Material is Key, De Minimis is Denied, Section 122 is Universal."
📌 Tips:
- If you import large volumes, consider pre-ruling with US Customs to confirm the HS code.
- For imitation jewelry, explore supply chain shifts to non-China origins to avoid Section 301 & 122 surcharges.
- Always provide material proof to prevent customs delays.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact your customs broker with material specifications.
🚀 Optimize your product line to focus on gem-based items for the US market if possible.
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Your Every Cent of Cost Should Be Precisely Calculated!
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.