3903.11.00.00 - Expandable

This HTS category, 3903.11.00.00, specifically classifies expandable polystyrene in its primary forms. Expandable polystyrene is a granular material that, when subjected to heat, undergoes expansion to form a lightweight, cellular plastic. This expansion process is a defining characteristic that distinguishes it from other forms of polystyrene.

The primary distinction for this classification lies in its "expandable" property. In contrast to its sibling category, 3903.19.00.00 (Other), which covers polystyrene that is not designed for expansion, 3903.11.00.00 exclusively applies to polystyrene beads or granules specifically formulated to expand upon heating. This expansion capability is crucial for its intended applications, such as insulation, protective packaging, and lightweight molded articles.

As this node is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 3903.11.00.00 hinges solely on whether the polystyrene in primary form exhibits the characteristic of expandability. Importers and exporters should verify that the material's inherent properties align with the expansion process for correct classification.