HS Code 39.16 – 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

HS code 3916 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: 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. Heading 3916 covers monofilament where any cross-sectional dimension exceeds 1 mm, and rods, sticks, and profile shapes, all made of plastics, whether or not surface-worked but not otherwise worked. This classification is critical for intermediate plastic products that serve as raw materials for further manufacturing processes. The 'not otherwise worked' clause is paramount, meaning these items have been shaped by extrusion, molding, or similar primary processes but have not undergone significant secondary processing like drilling, cutting to length for specific applications, bending, or assembly. They are essentially semi-finished goods. The scope includes a vast array of plastic materials, from common polymers like PVC, PE, and PP to engineering plastics such as Nylon, ABS, and PTFE. Monofilaments under this heading are typically thick strands used in applications like fishing lines, brushes, or industrial fabrics. Rods, sticks, and profile shapes are solid or hollow profiles with a constant cross-section throughout their length, used in construction (e.g., window frames), furniture, electrical insulation, and various mechanical components. Accurate classification under 3916 ensures correct tariff application and compliance with trade regulations. It differentiates these semi-finished plastics from raw plastic materials in primary forms (3901-3914), from thinner monofilaments (Chapter 54), and from finished plastic articles (e.g., pipes and tubes in 3917, or other articles in 3925 or 3926). This heading highlights the stage of processing where plastics transition from bulk materials to identifiable shapes, ready for final fabrication.

PVC window profiles, Acrylic rods, Polyethylene monofilament (>1mm), Polypropylene sticks, ABS profile shapes, Nylon 6 rods, PTFE rods, UHMW-PE profiles, Polycarbonate rods, Polystyrene profile shapes, PMMA rods, HDPE monofilament for brushes, PVC electrical conduit profiles, Acetal rods, PEEK profile shapes, UPVC door frame profiles, Polypropylene welding rods, Plastic curtain rod stock, Extruded plastic strips, Unworked plastic angles, Plastic T-sections, Solid plastic bars, Hollow plastic profiles, Plastic round stock, Plastic square stock

A common mistake is classifying plastic pipes or tubes, which have specific end-uses, under 3916 instead of the more specific Heading 3917. Another error is to classify articles that have been 'otherwise worked' (e.g., drilled, cut to specific lengths for immediate use, fitted with connectors) under 3916, when they should be classified as finished articles in headings like 3925 (for building articles) or 3926 (for other articles of plastic). Traders also sometimes confuse thinner monofilaments (equal to or less than 1 mm) which fall under Chapter 54, with the thicker ones specified in 3916.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 3916 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($2.1B, 25% of world exports), China ($1.6B) and the United States ($586M). World exports came to about $8.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 3916 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($806M, 11% of world imports), Germany ($529M) and Italy ($402M). World imports came to about $7.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 3916 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 39 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (39) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (16) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.