Hair Comb Set

🧴 Hair Comb Set (Toiletry Sets & Grooming Kits)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition: What is a "Hair Comb Set"?

A "Hair Comb Set" is a broad category encompassing various grooming tools. In international trade, the classification strictly depends on the composition, function, and completeness of the set. It is not a single HS code but varies based on whether it is a simple accessory, a plastic kit, or an electric device.

⚠️ Key Classification Criteria:
- Material: Plastic/Rubber vs. Metal vs. Electric Components.
- Function: Manual combing vs. Electric cutting/shaving.
- Set Nature: General toiletry/travel set vs. Specific grooming tool.

📦 II. HS Code Classification Matrix (Based on Provided Data)

💰 III. Detailed Tariff Analysis (2026 Structure)

✅ Applicable Region: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: Current Trade Policy (Including Section 301 & 122 Tariffs)

🎯 1. Manual Combs & Toiletry Sets (HS: 9615 & 9605)

Applies to: Manual plastic, metal, or ivory combs; non-electric travel kits.

📌 Explanation:
- 9615.11.40.00 (15.3%): Lowest rate for plastic/hard rubber combs.
- 9605.00.00.00 (18.1%): For complete toiletry sets (e.g., comb + brush + mirror).
- 9615.19.60.00 (21.0%): General "Other combs" with higher basic tariff.
- Crucial Note: While Section 301 typically applies to 9615, the provided data explicitly states 0.0% additional tariff for these entries, likely due to specific exclusions or data snapshot timing. However, the Section 122 10% tariff is uniformly applied.

🎯 2. Electric Hair Cutting Kits (HS: 8510)

Applies to: Electric trimmers, shavers, and their parts.

📌 Explanation:
- High Cost Alert: Electric grooming tools are heavily taxed.
- 8510.20.90.00: For finished electric clipper units.
- 8510.90.40.00: For replacement blades or parts for electric clippers.
- Both incur the maximum burden among the listed codes.

🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)

✅ 1. Preparation Checklist

✅ 2. Classification Strategy (Key Tips)

🔥 Pro Tip:
If you import a manual comb set, always declare it as "Plastic/Hard Rubber" (9615.11.40.00) if possible, as it has the lowest total tax (15.3%). Avoid general "Other Combs" (21.0%) unless material is non-standard.

✅ 3. Special Cases

🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026)

📌 Conclusion:
The USA has the highest effective tariff for grooming sets due to the 10% Section 122 addition. EU/UK markets are more tax-friendly for manual combs.

📌 VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Blood Tears Lessons)

❌ Mistake 1: Declaring an Electric Trimmer as "Plastic Comb" (9615...)
👉 Consequence: Customs detects motor/battery. Re-classification to 8510. Penalty + Back Taxes (24% difference) + Fines.

❌ Mistake 2: Declaring a Plastic Comb as "Toiletry Set" (9605...) incorrectly
👉 Consequence: Minor overpayment (18.1% vs 15.3%), but if flagged for wrong description, causes delay.

❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring Section 122
👉 Consequence: Failure to declare Section 122 eligibility/origin leads to audit and double taxation.

✅ Correct Practice:

"Plastic Hair Comb Set, 5-piece, including detangling comb and brush, for personal grooming. No electric parts. Material: Acrylic."

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification Saves Money

🎯 Remember the Golden Rules:

🔹 "Plastic Combs = 15.3% (Best for Manual)"
🔹 "Electric Clippers = 39.0% (Expensive)"
🔹 "Section 122 = 10% Flat Add-on for Grooming Tools from China"

📌 Action Item:

📞 Consult a Customs Broker to verify if your specific plastic comb fits 9615.11.40.00.
🚀 Separate Electric and Manual items in your invoice to apply the correct tax rates accurately.

✨ Accurate Classification is the First Step to Profitability!
💼 Don't let a wrong HS Code cost you 24% extra!