钮扣
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7116204000 | 28.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7117909000 | 28.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7116205000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9606212000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9606214000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
🔘 Buttons (钮扣)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Buttons"?
Buttons, the essential fasteners for apparel, footwear, bags, and industrial gear, are categorized in international trade based on their material composition and functional similarity. In the Harmonized System (HS), they are primarily split into two distinct logic paths:
Jewelry-Style/Decorative Buttons (Ch 71): Buttons made of precious metals, gemstones, semi-precious stones, or artificial jewelry materials. They are often grouped under "Imitation Jewelry" or specific button subcategories within Chapter 71. Functional/General Buttons (Ch 96): Standard buttons made of plastics, metals (non-jewelry), wood, or bone, typically classified under Chapter 96 as "Buttons, Press-on Buttons and Parts Thereof."
⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If the button is made of plastic, standard metal, or common materials without precious stone/metal value → Usually falls under 9606 (Functional Buttons).
- If the button is made of imitation jewelry materials, gems, or precious metals → Usually falls under 7116 or 7117 (Jewelry/Imitation Jewelry).
- Critical Note: If the material is ambiguous, customs may default to the "catch-all" imitation jewelry category (7117.90.90.00) or the specific plastic button code (9606.21.40.00), depending on the specific tariff schedule interpretation.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
Based on the provided data, here are the specific HS Codes and their logical derivations:
| HS Code | Product Description & Logic | Applicable Scenario | Estimated Total Tax (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
7116.20.40.00 |
Buttons & Other Articles of Beads or Artificial Imitation Jewelry. Derived from the principle that buttons are often treated as "other articles" of beads/imitation jewelry if not specifically listed elsewhere. | Buttons made of plastic/metal/shells treated as accessory/jewelry items. | 28.0% |
7117.90.90.00 |
Imitation Jewelry (Other). A "catch-all" category for imitation jewelry items, including buttons, when their specific material isn't explicitly defined elsewhere in Chapter 71. | Buttons lacking clear material description; defaulted to imitation jewelry. | 28.5% |
7116.20.50.00 |
Buttons of Precious Stones/Semi-Precious Stones. Inferred that buttons may be made of gemstones or semi-precious stones, falling under "other articles" of such materials. | High-end decorative buttons made of gems/semi-gems. | 17.5% |
9606.21.20.00 |
Buttons, Press-on Buttons, and Parts Thereof: Of Plastics. Matches the form factor of standard plastic buttons. | Standard plastic buttons, synthetic materials. | 35.0% |
9606.21.40.00 |
Buttons, Press-on Buttons, and Parts Thereof: Of Plastics (Specific Subheading). Synonymous with buttons; inferred as plastic material in the absence of conflict. | Standard plastic buttons, often with specific duty calculations. | 0.3¢/line/gross + 4.6% + 35.0% |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- Material is King: The primary determinant for HS code selection is the main material. Plastic → Ch 96; Gem/Imitation Jewelry → Ch 71.
- Ambiguity Risk: If material is not clearly declared, customs may apply the "catch-all" imitation jewelry code (7117.90.90.00), which carries a high tax burden (28.5%).
- Duty Structure: Note that9606.21.40.00has a compound duty (specific + ad valorem + additional tariffs), which requires careful calculation based on the number of lines/gross weight.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes, Policy Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 7116.20.40.00 — Buttons/Other Articles of Beads or Imitation Jewelry
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 10.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 28.0% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value × 28.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (Subject to high tariffs, de minimis often waived for Section 301/122 goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 7502.01.07 → Section 122: 9903.01.26 → USITC: 7116.20.40.00 |
📌 Explanation:
- Base 10.5%: Standard MFN duty for this imitation jewelry/button category.
- Section 301 (+7.5%): Additional tariff on Chinese goods under the Trade Act.
- Section 122 (+10%): Newer tariff provision targeting specific categories of Chinese imports.
- Total 28.0%: Significant cost impact. Must be factored into pricing.
🎯 2. 7117.90.90.00 — Imitation Jewelry (Other)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 11.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 28.5% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value × 28.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 7502.01.07 → Section 122: 9903.01.26 → USITC: 7117.90.90.00 |
📌 Note:
- This is the "fallback" category. If the button’s material is unclear or deemed "imitation jewelry," this code applies.
- Slightly higher than 7116.20.40.00 due to a higher base duty (11.0% vs 10.5%).
- Risk: Over-classification as "imitation jewelry" when it should be plastic buttons (Ch 96) can lead to overpayment; under-classification can lead to penalties.
🎯 3. 7116.20.50.00 — Buttons of Precious/Semi-Precious Stones
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value × 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 7502.01.07 → Section 122: 9903.01.26 → USITC: 7116.20.50.00 |
📌 Insight:
- Lowest Total Tax among the options due to 0% base duty.
- Only applicable if buttons are genuinely made of precious/semi-precious stones.
- Verification Required: Customs may demand proof of material (e.g., gemological certification).
🎯 4. 9606.21.20.00 — Buttons of Plastics
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation Method | CIF Value × 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 7502.01.07 → Section 122: 9903.01.26 → USITC: 9606.21.20.00 |
📌 Insight:
- High Section 301 Surcharge (25%) for plastic buttons.
- Despite 0% base duty, the total tax is 35.0%, higher than imitation jewelry codes.
- Common Pitfall: Many shippers assume plastic buttons are cheap, but the 25% Section 301 duty is punitive.
🎯 5. 9606.21.40.00 — Buttons of Plastics (Specific)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 0.3¢/line/gross + 4.6% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.3¢/line/gross + 4.6% + 35.0% |
| Calculation Method | (Specific Duty on Lines/Gross) + (CIF Value × 4.6%) + (CIF Value × 35.0%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 301: 7502.01.07 → Section 122: 9903.01.26 → USITC: 9606.21.40.00 |
📌 Note:
- Compound Duty Structure: This code combines a specific duty (per line or gross weight) with ad valorem and additional tariffs.
- Complex Calculation: Requires precise counting of "lines" (perforations in button shanks) or gross weight. Errors here can lead to significant discrepancies.
- Total Effective Rate: Can exceed 40% depending on the specific duty component.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
✅ 1. Document Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Must specify material composition (e.g., "100% Plastic," "Zinc Alloy," "Resin with Gemstone"). |
| ✅ Product Photos | ✔️ | Clear images of front, back, and shank. Shows material texture and construction. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Must clearly state "Buttons" and material. Avoid vague terms like "Accessories." |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Include count (pieces) and gross/net weight. Critical for 9606.21.40.00 specific duty calculation. |
| ✅ Material Test Report | ✔️ | For 7116.20.50.00 (Gems), provide lab certification. For plastics, material safety data sheet (MSDS) may help. |
| ✅ HS Code Pre-Ruling | ✔️ | Highly recommended to obtain an Advance Ruling from CBP to avoid misclassification. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
🔥 “Material First, Form Second, Plastic High, Gem Low!”
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Error Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Plastic Buttons | 9606.21.20.00 or 9606.21.40.00 |
Misclassifying as "Jewelry" → 28.5% (Lower tax? Yes, but risk of audit). Misclassifying as "General Articles" → Higher penalties. |
| Gemstone/Resin Buttons | 7116.20.50.00 |
Claiming plastic → 35% tax. Claiming gemstone without proof → Fraud/Penalty. |
| Unclear Material | 7117.90.90.00 |
Default to 28.5%. Best to clarify material before shipment. |
| Buttons with Metal Shanks | 9606.21.20.00 (if plastic body) |
Don’t let metal shank trigger "Metal Buttons" code unless metal is dominant. |
✅ 3. Special Cases Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Material Buttons | Declare based on principal material. If 60% plastic, 40% metal → Still Ch 96. If 50/50 → Risk of Ch 71 classification. |
| Bulk vs. Retail Packaging | Bulk buttons (unsorted) may be classified differently than retail-packaged decorative buttons. |
| Sample Shipments | Even samples are subject to Section 301/122 tariffs. No de minimis exemption. |
| Section 122 Impact | Remember, Section 122 adds 10% on top of base and Section 301. This is a new cost factor for 2026+. |
🌍 V. Global Main Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 9606.21.20.00 / 7116.20.40.00 |
28.0% - 35.0% (incl. Sec 301/122) | None specific, but material proof needed | Highest Tariff Burden. Section 122 adds 10%. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 9606.21.00.00 |
5.0% - 8.0% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower base duty. No Section 301/122. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 9606.21.00.00 |
0.0% - 4.0% (if GSP/Preferential) | REACH, RoHS | No Section 301/122. Lower overall cost. |
| 🇬🇧 UK | 9606.21.00.00 |
4.0% | UKCA, REACH | Post-Brexit tariff structure. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 9606.21.00.00 |
3.0% | PSE (if electrical components) | Low base duty, no surcharges. |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for buttons due to Section 301 (7.5%-25%) and Section 122 (10%).
- EU/Asia/China offer significantly lower duties.
- Strategy: Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., sourcing from Vietnam, Thailand, or Mexico) to avoid US surcharges if volume is high.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood-Taught Lessons)
❌ Error 1: Declaring plastic buttons as "General Accessories" without specifying material
👉 Consequence: CBP reclassifies → 35.0% tax + Penalties.
❌ Error 2: Claiming plastic buttons are "Imitation Jewelry" to get 28.0% tax
👉 Consequence: Audit reveals true material → Back taxes + 25% penalty for misdeclaration.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring Section 122 (10%) in cost calculations
👉 Consequence: Margin erosion. Many shippers forgot this new surcharge in 2025.
❌ Error 4: Incorrect specific duty calculation for 9606.21.40.00
👉 Consequence: Discrepancy in "lines per gross" → CBP issues Invoice Reconciliation delay.
✅ Correct Approach:
"Buttons, 10mm, Plastic Body, Metal Shank, Assorted Colors, 10,000 pcs, Model BTN-2026, FCC/REACH Compliant"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Cost Control, Risk Mitigation!
🎯 Remember the Mnemonic:
🔹 "Plastic 35%, Gem 17.5%, Jewelry 28.5%, Unclear 28.5%!"
🔹 "Section 122 adds 10%, Don’t get caught flat-footed!"
🔹 "Material proof is mandatory, especially for gems!"
📌 Pro Tip:
- If your buttons are high-volume, consider HTS Code Pre-Ruling from CBP.
- For Section 301/122 exemptions, check if your product qualifies under any exclusion lists (rare for buttons, but always verify).
- Supply Chain Tip: If possible, source buttons from non-China countries (e.g., Vietnam, India) to avoid Section 301/122 surcharges when exporting to the US.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact your customs broker + Provide material specs + Apply for HTS Pre-Ruling
🚀 Ensure your buttons pass US customs smoothly, avoid penalties, and protect your margins!
✨ Professional clearance starts with accurate classification!
💼 Every percentage point of tax matters 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.