Why is a pet slicker brush not under HTS 9603.29?

9603.29 is tied to toilet brushes for use on the person, such as hair brushes and nail brushes. Animal grooming brushes generally need to be compared with the residual other-brush provisions under 9603.90.

Does a self-cleaning release button change the classification?

A simple mechanical hair-release plate may leave the article's essential character as a manual brush, but the complete mechanism and any powered or additional functions still need review.

Are pet slicker brushes from China subject to additional duties?

Do not infer an additional-duty result from country of origin alone. Verify the final HTS line, current Chapter 99 measures, effective dates, exclusions, and origin facts before filing.

Pet Slicker Brush - HTS Code 9603.90.80.50

A pet slicker brush is a handheld grooming brush for cats and dogs, usually made with a plastic or rubber handle and a brush head containing fine metal pins or flexible bristles. It is used to remove loose hair, detangle fur, and maintain animal coats. Some versions include a self-cleaning plate or push-button hair release feature, but the essential character remains a non-electric grooming brush.

ReviewedLast reviewed: Aug 16, 2026

Published:: Aug 16, 2026
Next review due:: Nov 14, 2026

Tariff programs, exclusions, rulings, and agency guidance can change. Use this page as research context and verify official sources before filing.

Live data status

Source coverage

USITC HTS schedule record
chapter and section notes where available
Moya tariff overlays during a full live check

Important: AI output requires professional review

Moya provides AI-assisted research for U.S. import workflows. Results are not a binding CBP ruling, legal advice, customs brokerage advice, or filing instruction. Verify HTS codes, duties, and compliance requirements with a licensed customs broker or official source before relying on them.

Reference HTS Code

9603.90.80.50

For research only. Verify the latest schedule and official requirements before filing.

AI Classification Reasoning

A pet slicker brush should first be evaluated under heading 9603, which covers brooms and brushes. The key subheading issue is whether the brush belongs in the personal toilet-brush provisions or the residual brush provisions. Subheading 9603.29 covers toothbrushes, shaving brushes, hair brushes, nail brushes, eyelash brushes, and other toilet brushes for use on the person. Pet brushes are for animals, not personal use on the person. CBP ruling G81081 classified a plastic pet brush under 9603.90.8050, the residual 'other brushes' provision. For a typical finished manual pet slicker brush with comparable facts, HTS 9603.90.80.50 is therefore the stronger starting point than 9603.29. The ruling applies to its stated merchandise facts, so unusual electric, composite, or multi-function products need separate review.

Official sources

These links support the schedule or ruling facts on this page. Recheck rates and measures before filing.

Tariff Information

General rate2.8%

🔒Section 301 surcharge (China origin)
🔒Section 232 (steel/aluminum)
🔒Other Chapter 99 duties
🔒Exclusion list lookup
🔒Tariff impact notes

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FAQ

Why is a pet slicker brush not under HTS 9603.29?: 9603.29 is tied to toilet brushes for use on the person, such as hair brushes and nail brushes. Animal grooming brushes generally need to be compared with the residual other-brush provisions under 9603.90.
Does a self-cleaning release button change the classification?: A simple mechanical hair-release plate may leave the article's essential character as a manual brush, but the complete mechanism and any powered or additional functions still need review.
Are pet slicker brushes from China subject to additional duties?: Do not infer an additional-duty result from country of origin alone. Verify the final HTS line, current Chapter 99 measures, effective dates, exclusions, and origin facts before filing.