What HS code do I use for plastic bags?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
HS-2 · Chapter 39
HS chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof
Section VII — Plastics and articles thereof; rubber and articles thereof
Goods classified under HS-39 include various plastics and articles made from them, such as polyethylene bags and PVC pipes. Understanding the specific types of plastics helps in correctly identifying the HS-4 codes for your shipments.
To determine the appropriate HS-4 code, start by identifying the type of polymer or plastic. For instance, if you're importing polyethylene, you would look at 3901 for polymers of ethylene. Pay attention to the product's primary form and intended use, as these factors guide you to the correct subheading.
Next, consider the specific characteristics of your product. For example, if you're dealing with plastic sheets, you might need to navigate to 3920 or 3921 depending on whether they are self-adhesive or not. Always check the title text and notes for clarifications on exclusions and inclusions.
Finally, if you're unsure about the classification, consult with a customs broker or refer to national rulings. They can provide insights into how similar products have been classified, helping you avoid potential compliance issues.
Terms & reference phrasing
These are common trade terms used for this chapter. Use them as context, not as a substitute for legal wording.
plastics import export · HS-39 codes · polymer classification · plastic sheets · PVC products · acrylic polymers · self-adhesive plastics · plastic packaging · household plastic goods · polyethylene bags · plastic pipes · customs broker plastics · plastic articles · trade regulations plastics · HS-4 headings · national rulings plastics
Continue classification
Parent context
Nearby siblings
Related actions
Next best action
Pick one of these actions to move from reading to a defensible classification decision.
Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- how to classify plastics for international trade
- understanding HS-39 for plastic products
- choosing the right HS-4 code for polymers
- importing plastic articles and their classifications
- guidelines for plastic waste and scrap codes
- differences between various plastic polymers in HS-39
- navigating the HS codes for household plastic items
- consulting brokers for plastic product classifications
Examples & common questions
Example products reflect typical trade descriptions. The questions below mirror practical doubts teams raise during filing.
Example products
- Polyethylene bags for packaging (HS-3901)
- PVC pipes for plumbing (HS-3917)
- Acrylic sheets for display cases (HS-3906)
- Plastic kitchenware like bowls and utensils (HS-3924)
- Self-adhesive plastic films for labeling (HS-3919)
- Plastic flooring tiles (HS-3918)
- Polyurethane foam for cushioning (HS-3909)
- Plastic caps and closures for bottles (HS-3923)
Common classification questions
How to classify PVC pipes for import?
Confirm composition, processing stage, and end-use in your documents before mapping to country digits.
Are acrylic sheets classified under HS-39?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
What are the primary forms of plastics?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
How do I find the right HS-4 code for my product?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
What is the difference between HS-3918 and HS-3920?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of products fall under HS-39?
- HS-39 includes various plastics and articles made from plastics, such as polymers, sheets, films, and household items.
- How do I determine the right HS-4 code for my plastic product?
- Identify the type of polymer and its primary form, then refer to the relevant HS-4 headings for classification.
- What should I look for in the notes for HS-39?
- Check for exclusions, inclusions, and specific definitions that clarify the classification of your product.
- Can I consult a broker for help with HS-39 classifications?
- Yes, customs brokers can provide valuable insights and help ensure your products are classified correctly.
- What if my product doesn't fit neatly into one HS-4 code?
- If your product has mixed materials or characteristics, consult the notes or a broker for guidance on the appropriate classification.
All HS-4 headings in chapter 39 (26)
Each HS-4 links to a dedicated page with plain-English explanation, HS-6 subheadings, and FAQs. Use Browse to open the lookup in heading mode for that line.
3901
Polymers of ethylene, in primary forms
3902
Polymers of propylene or of other olefins, in primary forms
3903
Polymers of styrene, in primary forms
3904
Polymers of vinyl chloride or of other halogenated olefins, in primary forms
3905
Polymers of vinyl acetate or of other vinyl esters, in primary forms; other vinyl polymers in primary forms
3906
Acrylic polymers in primary forms
3907
Polyacetals, other polyethers and epoxide resins, in primary forms; polycarbonates, alkyd resins, polyallyl esters and other polyesters, in primary forms
3908
Polyamides in primary forms
3909
Amino-resins, phenolic resins and polyurethanes, in primary forms
3910
Silicones in primary forms
3911
Petroleum resins, coumarone-indene resins, polyterpenes, polysulphides, polysulphones and similar products of chemical synthesis n.e.c. in chapter 39, in primary forms
3912
Cellulose and its chemical derivatives, n.e.c. or included, in primary forms
3913
Natural polymers (e.g. alginic acid) and modified natural polymers (e.g. hardened proteins, chemical derivatives of natural rubber), n.e.c. or included, in primary forms
3914
Ion-exchangers; based on polymers of heading no. 3901 to 3913, in primary forms
3915
Waste, parings and scrap, of plastics
3916
Monofilament of which any cross-sectional dimension exceeds 1mm, rods, sticks and profile shapes, whether or not surface-worked but not otherwise worked, of plastics
3917
Tubes, pipes and hoses and fittings thereof (for example, joints, elbows, flanges), of plastics
3918
Floor coverings of plastics, self-adhesive or not, in rolls or tiles; wall or ceiling coverings of plastics, in rolls of a width not less than 45cm
3919
Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls
3920
Plastics; plates, sheets, film, foil and strip (not self-adhesive); non-cellular and not reinforced, laminated, supported or similarly combined with other materials, n.e.c. in chapter 39
3921
Plastic plates, sheets, film, foil and strip n.e.c. in chapter 39
3922
Sanitary ware; baths, shower-baths, sinks, wash-basins, bidets, lavatory pans, seats and covers, flushing cisterns and sanitary ware, of plastics
3923
Plastic articles for the conveyance or packing of goods; stoppers, lids, caps and other closures of plastics
3924
Tableware, kitchenware, other household articles and hygienic or toilet articles, of plastics
3925
Plastics; builders' wares n.e.c. or included
3926
Articles of plastics and articles of other materials of heading no. 3901 to 3914, n.e.c. in chapter 39
Browse first heading (HS-4 3901)
Opens the lookup in heading browse for the first HS-4 block in this chapter (3901). Prefer the table above for a specific HS-4 page with full copy.
Before you file customs documents
Chapter pages on TradeTools are educational summaries, not legal classification determinations. Cross-check candidate codes with official notes, advance rulings where available, and your broker for high-value or borderline goods.
How we classify products explains what TradeTools does (and does not) automate.