Ethylene Polymer Granules Stretch Film Grade

🧪 Ethylene Polymer Granules – Stretch Film Grade (LLDPE)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Are "Stretch Film Grade" Granules?

Ethylene polymer granules in "stretch film grade" are typically Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) or Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), specifically engineered for extrusion into thin, elastic films used for packaging, pallet wrapping, and industrial covering.

These raw material pellets are classified under Chapter 39: Plastics and Articles Thereof, specifically under Heading 3901: Polymers of Ethylene.

⚠️ Key Distinction:
- If the specific gravity is < 0.94 and it is Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) →归入 3901.10.50.10
- If the specific gravity is < 0.94 and it is LDPE (excluding LLDPE) → 归入 3901.10.50.20
- If the specific gravity is ≥ 0.94 or it is a different ethylene polymer type → 需进一步细分，但常见拉伸膜原料多为 < 0.94。

📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)

🔍 Important Note:
- Both codes apply to primary forms (granules, powders, etc.).
- The critical factor is specific gravity and polymer type (LLDPE vs. LDPE).
- Stretch film grade is predominantly LLDPE due to its superior tensile strength and puncture resistance, so 3901.10.50.10 is the most common classification.
- No additional Section 301 tariffs apply to these items (0% total tax).

💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Country of Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: 2025–2026 (current policy)

🎯 1. 3901.10.50.10 —— Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), < 0.94 sg

📌 Explanation:
- These polyethylene granules are exempt from all additional tariffs due to their inclusion in the 0% base duty category and exclusion from Section 301 lists.
- This is a significant cost advantage compared to other plastic articles or finished films.

🎯 2. 3901.10.50.20 —— Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), < 0.94 sg

📌 Note:
- Same tax treatment as LLDPE.
- LDPE is less common for high-performance stretch films but still widely used in general packaging.

🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Best Practices & Pitfall Avoidance)

✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)

✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)

🔥 “Granules Not Films, SG Matters, LLDPE vs LDPE, 0% Duty Rule!”

✅ 3. Special Cases Handling

🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)

📌 Conclusion:
- USA, EU, Japan, UK all apply 0% base tariff for these polyethylene granules.
- China origin goods face 0% additional tariffs in the US, making this a highly competitive import category.
- No de minimis exemption applies, so even small shipments are subject to full customs clearance procedures.

📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)

❌ Error 1: Declaring "stretch film" instead of "granules"
👉 Consequence: Incorrect HS code (e.g., 3920.10.00.00) → Potential 31.5% tariff → Back taxes + penalties!

❌ Error 2: Misidentifying LLDPE as HDPE or PP
👉 Consequence: Wrong HS code (e.g., 3902.90.00.50) → 31.5% total tariff instead of 0%

❌ Error 3: Omitting specific gravity in documentation
👉 Consequence: Customs may reclassify → Delay in clearance or incorrect duty assessment

❌ Error 4: Using generic terms like "plastic pellets"
👉 Consequence: CBP may request additional documentation → Clearance delays

✅ Correct Practice:

“Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) Granules, Stretch Film Grade, Specific Gravity 0.92, MFI 2.0 g/10min, Pure Ethylene Polymer, No Fillers, Model XYZ, COA Attached”

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification, Cost Savings, Smooth Clearance!

🎯 Remember the Mantra:

🔹 “Granules, Not Films; SG < 0.94; LLDPE/LDPE; 0% Duty!”
🔹 “Wrong Code = 31.5%; Right Code = 0%. Choose Wisely!”

📌 Pro Tip:
- Always verify specific gravity and polymer type with your supplier’s COA.
- Use CBP Pre-Rulings if unsure about classification.
- Maintain consistent documentation across invoices, packing lists, and specs.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Engage a licensed customs broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
🚀 Ensure smooth customs clearance, zero tariff burden, and maximum profit margins!

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Dollar Saved Counts in International Trade!