HS Code 39.19 – Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls

HS code 3919 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Self-adhesive plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip and other flat shapes, of plastics, whether or not in rolls. Heading 3919 is a critical classification for a diverse range of self-adhesive plastic products, encompassing plates, sheets, film, foil, tape, strip, and other flat shapes, whether or not presented in rolls. The defining characteristic of this heading is the presence of an adhesive layer, allowing the product to adhere without additional bonding agents. This category spans an enormous array of applications across virtually every industry, including packaging, automotive, electronics, graphic arts, construction, and medical. Key sub-categories involve materials like PVC, PET, PP, and PE, with various adhesive types (e.g., acrylic, rubber-based) tailored for specific adhesion strengths and environmental conditions. For trade compliance, accurate classification under 3919 is paramount for determining correct duty rates and ensuring adherence to specific regulations, such as those for food contact materials, medical devices, or automotive safety standards. The versatility and ease of application of self-adhesive plastics have made them indispensable in modern manufacturing and consumer goods. This heading strongly reflects Chapter 39's focus on processed plastic forms, showcasing plastics' adaptability when combined with functional properties like adhesion, making them valuable finished or semi-finished goods for further processing or direct use.

Self-adhesive PVC film, electrical insulating tape, clear packaging tape, vinyl decals, reflective safety tape, double-sided adhesive sheets, protective screen film, graphic arts vinyl film, self-adhesive polypropylene labels, automotive trim tape, medical adhesive tapes, holographic security film, adhesive bumper guards, anti-slip adhesive strips, window tint film, heat transfer vinyl, tamper-evident seals, adhesive nameplate material, transparent protective films, decorative adhesive films, self-adhesive plastic foam, adhesive masking film (plastic-based), self-adhesive warning strips, book covering film, self-adhesive laminating film.

A common error for 3919 is confusing self-adhesive plastics with non-adhesive plastic sheets, films, or strips, which fall under headings 3920 or 3921. The presence of a self-adhesive layer is the sole distinguishing factor. Another mistake involves classifying adhesive products made from other materials, such as paper-based tapes (Chapter 48) or rubber tapes (Chapter 40), incorrectly under 3919. Traders might also misclassify plastic labels or tags that are not self-adhesive, which would typically fall under 3926. The key to correct classification is confirming the 'self-adhesive' characteristic and ensuring the material is indeed 'of plastics' and not a composite where another material provides the essential character.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 3919 in UN Comtrade data were China ($6.7B, 23% of world exports), the United States ($3.4B) and Germany ($3.0B). World exports came to about $28.4B, 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 3919 in UN Comtrade data were China ($3.0B, 11% of world imports), the United States ($1.8B) and Germany ($1.6B). World imports came to about $27.9B, 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 3919 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 39 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (39) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (19) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.