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HSChapter 39
U.S. imports of expandable polystyrene (eps) in primary forms (HS 390311) totaled $30.8M in April 2026, traded with 15 countries.
Importers of Expandable Polystyrene (EPS) in Primary Forms paid $639K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 13% on $5.1M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Expandable Polystyrene (EPS) in Primary Forms imports of $30.8M in April 2026 ran 13% above the year-to-date monthly average of $27.3M.
Last updated: April 2026 dataExpandable polystyrene — universally known as EPS — is polystyrene beads impregnated with a blowing agent (typically pentane) that expand when heated to produce lightweight foam for packaging, insulation board, and protective molding. The entire heading resolves to a single 10-digit line (3903110000), so classification disputes more often involve distinguishing EPS from non-expandable polystyrene (heading 390319) based on the presence and content of the blowing agent. Mexico and Canada are the leading US suppliers, with South Korea also a notable source. EPS imports from Mexico may qualify for USMCA preferential treatment when rules-of-origin requirements are satisfied.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
The defining characteristic is the presence of an incorporated blowing agent — typically pentane — within the bead structure. CBP may request a certificate of analysis or technical data sheet confirming blowing-agent content and bead morphology. Material that lacks an incorporated blowing agent is classified under heading 390319 as non-expandable polystyrene.
EPS beads contain residual pentane, a flammable hydrocarbon, which triggers hazardous-materials handling requirements under DOT regulations for certain shipment modes. Importers should confirm that shipping documentation (including Safety Data Sheets) correctly identifies the flammability classification and that carriers are equipped to handle the material in compliance with 49 CFR hazmat rules.
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Monthly import values over time
| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| CANADA | $14.7M | $3.2M | -$11.6M |
| MEXICO | $11.0M | $3.9M | -$7.1M |
| KOREA, SOUTH | $2.7M | -- | -$2.7M |
| TAIWAN | $1.3M | -- | -$1.3M |
| CHINA | -- | $996K | +$996K |
HS10 import codes under this HS6 parent. Source: U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
| Code | Description | Import Value | Effective Tariff % | Duty Collected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3903110000 | POLYSTYRENE,EXPANDABLE | $30.8M | 12.61% | $639K |
POLYSTYRENE,EXPANDABLE
HS10 export codes under this HS6 parent. Source: U.S. Schedule B export classification.
| Code | Description | Export Value |
|---|---|---|
| 3903110000 | POLYSTYRENE,EXPANDABLE | $8.8M |
POLYSTYRENE,EXPANDABLE
4.2M kg
ARTICLES OF PLASTICS, NESOI
HS 392690
FLOOR, WALL, ETC COVERS, VINYL CHLORIDE POLYMERS
HS 391810
TABLEWARE AND KITCHENWARE OF PLASTICS
HS 392410
SACKS & BAGS (INCL CONES) OF POLYMERS OF ETHYLENE
HS 392321
HOUSEHOLD AND TOILET ARTICLES NESOI OF PLASTICS
HS 392490
PLATES, SHEETS ETC, NON-CELL ETC, POLYMER
HS 392010
| Port | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| PORT HURON, MI | $9.1M | $1.2M | -$7.9M |
| LAREDO, TX | $4.9M | $2.9M | -$2.0M |
| DERBY LINE, VT | $2.4M | -- | -$2.4M |