Poplar Utility Poles from China
Rough-cut poles made from Populus deltoides (poplar) wood, typically 30-50 feet long and 8-12 inches in diameter at the butt end, used for electrical and telephone line support. They are stripped of bark and sapwood but not further processed, fitting HTS 4403.97.0026 as poles of poplar species in the rough state.
Duty Rate — China → United States
37.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Verify species certification as Populus spp. (poplar/aspen) via phytosanitary certificates to avoid reclassification
• Ensure ISPM 15 heat treatment documentation for poles to meet fumigation requirements and prevent quarantine issues
• Measure dimensions precisely; poles over roughly squared limits may shift to sawn lumber headings