HS code for birthday candles
The U.S. HS code for birthday candles is usually 3406.00.00.00 (cake candles), with no general duty and an estimated total of 12.5% from China and 12.5% from Vietnam once additional duties are added.
Estimates use tariff data as of October 22, 2026. The China and Vietnam estimates include Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%). From China, Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply, up to 37.5% in total. Classifications and duty estimates are guidance based on the published HTSUS. The importer of record is responsible for the final classification.
Codes by variant
| Variant | HTS code | General duty | Est. from China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake candles | 3406.00.00.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 3406.00.00.00: Candles, tapers and the like
What decides the code
Birthday cake candles are classified under heading 3406 as candles, tapers and the like, specifically 3406.00.00.00.
- The product is a candle in heading 3406, so cake candles take 3406.00.00.00.
- The heading covers candles, tapers and the like, which includes small decorative candles placed on cakes.
- A change to a non-candle article, such as a plastic candle holder sold separately, would move the item out of heading 3406.
Common mistakes
- Classifying birthday candles under 9505.90 as festive articles is wrong because heading 3406 specifically covers candles.
- Classifying them under 3924.90 as plastic household articles is wrong because the item is a wax candle, not a plastic article.
- Classifying them under 4421.99 as other articles of wood is wrong because the candle body is wax, not wood.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 37.5%.
- Vietnam
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 3406.00.00.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
Antidumping duty: Petroleum wax candles from China are subject to antidumping order A-570-504. Check the scope before you import. These duties are not in the estimate above.
EU code and duty
- Cake candles
- CN 3406 00 00, Free
EU Combined Nomenclature 2026, third-country (erga omnes) duty. Preferential rates and EU trade remedy duties are not included.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for birthday candles?
The U.S. HTS code for birthday candles is usually 3406.00.00.00 (cake candles). The first six digits, 3406.00, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on birthday candles from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 3406.00.00.00 is Free. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 12.5% of customs value. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 12.5%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
Related products
Codes checked against the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule retrieved October 22, 2026. Additional duties reviewed October 22, 2026. This is an estimate: the importer of record is responsible for classification.