A flexible article (pool noodle) (Tariff notice 6)
Check the tariff classification for a flexible article made of cellular plastics in the shape of a hollow tube.
New regulation
A new regulation was published on 31 May 2021:
L 199/1
Reg. 2021/4027
This is not considered a change in Northern Ireland practice.
Description of goods
A flexible article (so-called pool noodle) made of cellular plastics (plastic foam) in the shape of a hollow tube of a length of approximately 1m and a diameter of approximately 8 cm. The article floats on water and is presented to be used as a buoyancy aid, complying with a European standard for buoyancy aids for swimming instruction (EN 13138-2:2014). The article is also shock-absorbent and thermally insulating.
Classification (Combined Nomenclature (CN) code)
3926 90 97
Reason
Classification is determined by general rules 1 and 6 for the interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature and by the wording of CN codes 3926, 3926 90 and 3926 90 97.
Classification under heading 9506 as articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports or outdoor games is excluded, because due to its simple, common shape the article cannot be identified as an article designed for physical exercise or sports of heading 9506, although due to its floating abilities the article complies with the standard for buoyancy aids for swimming instructions.
Moreover, due to its simple shape and common material, the article could be used for various purposes (for example, as shock absorbing protective products that are wrapped around poles, thermal insulation products that are wrapped around pipes, products for the amusement of kids).
Likewise, classification under heading 9503 as other toys is excluded, because the article cannot clearly be identified as an article for the amusement of kids or adults given its design.
Consequently, the article is to be classified according to its constituent material (plastics).
The article is therefore to be classified under CN code 3926 90 97 as other articles of plastics.
Contact details
Tariff Classification
Customs and Border Design
10th Floor
Alexander House
21 Victoria Avenue
Southend-on-Sea
Essex SS99 1AA
Email: tariff.classification@hmrc.gov.uk
This Tariff notice is published for information purposes only.