锁板
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8301600000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
🔐 Lock Plates & Clasps (Base Metal)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional通关 Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Lock Plates"?
Lock plates (often referring to clasps, frames, or decorative plates incorporating locking mechanisms) in international trade are strictly regulated under Chapter 83 of the Harmonized System. They are categorized based on their material (base metal) and function (incorporating a lock).
In this specific data context, the product is defined as: * Core Component: Clasps and frames with clasps. * Key Feature: Incorporating locks (key, combination, or electrically operated). * Material: Base metal (e.g., zinc alloy, iron, steel, brass). * HS Code Target: 8301.60.00.00
⚠️ Critical Distinction:
- If the item is merely a decorative plate without a locking mechanism → It may fall under different subheadings (e.g., 8308.20).
- If the item incorporates a lock (even if the lock is internal to the clasp/frame) → It MUST be classified under 8301.60.00.00.
- Do not confuse with standalone padlocks (8301.10) or lock parts (8301.50) if the product is a complete clasp/frame assembly with a lock.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Lock Mechanism Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
8301.60.00.00 |
Clasps and frames with clasps, incorporating locks | Jewelry clasps, bag frames, luggage locking systems, base metal decorative locks | ✅ Yes (Integrated) |
8301.10.00.00 |
Padlocks | Standalone padlocks | ✅ Yes (Standalone) |
8301.50.00.00 |
Parts of locks | Keys, cores, bolts, plates not forming a complete clasp/frame | ❌ No (Only parts) |
7326.90.00.00 |
Other articles of iron/steel | Non-locking decorative plates, buckles without locking function | ❌ No |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- The definition for 8301.60.00.00 is explicit: "Clasps and frames with clasps, incorporating locks".
- If your "Lock Plate" is a frame that holds a clasp and has a built-in locking mechanism, it belongs here.
- If it is just a metal plate that sits on top of a lock but isn't part of the locking assembly, it might be a part (8301.50) or a separate accessory. Clarify the structural integration.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 8301.60.00.00 —— Clasps and Frames with Clasps, Incorporating Locks
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +25% (from USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% (for China/HK products, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Tax Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Eligible? | ❌ No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:8301.60.00.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Explanation:
- "USITC Surtax 25%" comes from Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act (Additional Duties on Chinese Goods).
- "IEEPA 10%" is an additional surcharge under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for specific Chinese-origin goods.
- Total 35% is a high tariff rate. You must factor this into your cost structure immediately.
- No De Minimis: Gifts or low-value shipments cannot bypass these tariffs. All imports are subject to full duty.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
✅ 1. Preparation Checklist (No Exceptions)
| Document | Required? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specifications | ✔️ | Must detail: Material (Base Metal), Dimensions, Lock Type (Key/Combination/Electric), Weight. |
| ✅ Technical Diagrams | ✔️ | Show how the lock is integrated into the clasp/frame. Critical for distinguishing from "Parts" (8301.50). |
| ✅ Product Photos | ✔️ | Clear images of the locking mechanism, brand, model number, and base metal surface. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Description must explicitly state: "Base metal clasp/frame with incorporated lock". Avoid vague terms like "metal accessory". |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | List quantities per HS Code. If mixed, declare separately. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
🔥 "Integrated Lock = 8301.60; Standalone Part = 8301.50. Be Precise!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Clasp/Frame with Built-in Lock | 8301.60.00.00 |
Misdeclaring as "Lock Parts" (8301.50) → Potential penalty for misclassification. |
| Decorative Plate ONLY (No Lock) | Not 8301.60 | Declaring as 8301.60 → Over-declaration, potential audit flag. |
| Keys for the Lock | 8301.50.00.00 |
Declaring keys as part of the clasp → Incorrect. Keys are parts. |
| Electric Lock Mechanism Alone | Check Chapter 83 or 85 | If it's just the electric component without the base metal frame, it may differ. |
✅ 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Lock Plates | Provide design files and BOM (Bill of Materials) to prove base metal composition and lock integration. |
| Mixed Container (Locks + Non-Locks) | Separate HS Codes! Do not lump "metal plates" with "locking clasps". Each requires its own line item. |
| Alloy vs. Pure Metal | "Base metal" includes alloys. Ensure the description reflects the primary material (e.g., "Zinc Alloy Clasp"). |
| Pre-Avance Ruling | Highly Recommended. Submit samples and specs to CBP for a binding ruling before shipping to avoid 35% surprise duties. |
🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 8301.60.00.00 |
35% (25% + 10%) | None specific, but accurate HS is critical | High tariff; no de minimis. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 8301.60.00.00 |
0% (Import) | N/A | Export duty may apply depending on policy. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 8301.60.00.00 |
0% | N/A | Generally low duty for base metal accessories. |
| 🇬🇧 UK | 8301.60.00.00 |
0% | N/A | Post-Brexit tariffs often align with former EU. |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 8301.60.00.00 |
0% | N/A | Free trade agreements may apply for other regions. |
📌 Conclusion:
- The USA is the only major market with significant surcharges (35%) for this product from China.
- EU, UK, and Australia offer 0% tariff, making them more cost-effective for end-users, but importers must still handle local VAT/GST.
- Strategic Advice: If your target market is the US, consider transshipment (via non-China origin) or supplier restructuring to mitigate the 35% duty, if feasible.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
❌ Mistake 1: Declaring "Lock Plates" as "Lock Parts" (8301.50)
👉 Consequence: While 8301.50 might also face the 35% tax, misclassification can lead to penalties if the item is structurally a complete clasp/frame. CBP will scrutinize the "incorporation" of the lock.
❌ Mistake 2: Using generic terms like "Metal Fittings"
👉 Consequence: CBP may assign a different HS code with a higher duty rate or reject the entry for lack of specificity.
❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring the "Incorporating Locks" condition
👉 Consequence: If the plate does NOT incorporate a lock, but you declare it as 8301.60, you are declaring incorrectly. If it DOES incorporate a lock but you declare it as 7326 (non-lock metal goods), you face 35% underpayment + penalties.
❌ Mistake 4: Assuming De Minimis applies
👉 Consequence: The 35% tariff does not apply to shipments under $800 (Section 321). All shipments are liable. Small businesses must budget for this cost.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Base Metal Clasp Frame with Integrated Key Lock, Model XYZ, Zinc Alloy, 50mm Width"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Costs!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Clasp + Frame + Lock = 8301.60. Base Metal is Key. 35% Tax Awaits in the US."
🔹 "Parts are 8301.50. Plates without locks are NOT 8301.60. Get it right or pay the penalty."
📌 Pro Tip:
If your product is originating from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may qualify for IEEPA Exemptions or lower tariffs under USMCA/ASEAN agreements.
Recommendation: Always apply for a CBP Advance Ruling for high-volume shipments to ensure 100% compliance and avoid seizure.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Consult a licensed customs broker + Provide 3D renderings of the lock mechanism + Request HS Code Pre-Ruling
🚀 Ensure smooth customs clearance, avoid 35% shocks, and maximize your profit margins!
✨ Professional clearance starts with accurate classification!
💼 Every percentage point in tariff is pure cost – protect your bottom line!
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.