HS Code:
This category refers to articles listed under additional U.S. note 6(b) of a specific chapter in the Harmonized System (HS) code, with an aggregate value not exceeding $38. These articles typically include specific goods subject to unique tariff classifications and restrictions as per U.S. trade regulations. The exact nature of the products depends on the chapter and specific HS code referenced, but they generally encompass niche or value-limited items subject to special provisions. This category is critical for importers and exporters to monitor due to specific quota and tariff treatments.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC)
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12.0% (applied to specific non-FTA countries)
Lowest Rate
0.0% (under Free Trade Agreements like USMCA)
Increased demand for low-value shipments
Driven by e-commerce growth, leading to higher import volumes under the $38 threshold to avoid higher tariffs.
2021-2022
Shift in sourcing to FTA partners
Importers are favoring countries like Mexico and Canada to benefit from zero or reduced tariff rates under USMCA.
2020-2022
Stricter enforcement of value limits
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has increased scrutiny on shipments near the $38 threshold, impacting small-scale importers.
2022
The U.S. International Trade Commission released updated guidelines for articles under note 6(b), clarifying valuation methods for aggregate limits.
March 2023
Provides clearer compliance pathways for importers but increases documentation burden.
Additional tariffs were imposed on certain Chinese-origin goods under this category as part of ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.
September 2022
Increased costs for U.S. importers, prompting a shift to alternative sourcing countries.
Enhanced benefits under the USMCA agreement have led to a surge in imports from Mexico and Canada for articles in this category.
January 2023
Reduced tariff costs for North American trade partners, strengthening regional supply chains.