HS Code Subheading

Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, having more than 10% of mechanically processed fibres, (excluding light-weight paper), for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets

4810.29 Subheading
Section X — Pulp of wood or of other fibrous cellulosic material; recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard; paper and paperboard and articles thereof

About HS Code 481029

This code encompasses a significant segment of the global paper trade, specifically focusing on coated papers used for high-quality printing and graphic applications. These papers are characterized by their inorganic coating, often kaolin, which provides a smooth, bright surface essential for vibrant color reproduction and sharp text. The presence of more than 10% mechanically processed fibers indicates a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of commercial printing needs. Major importers include countries with robust publishing, advertising, and packaging industries, such as the United States, Germany, and China, which demand large volumes of high-quality print media. Exporters are typically countries with strong pulp and paper manufacturing capabilities, like Finland, Sweden, and Canada, alongside emerging players in Asia. Key considerations for trade include environmental certifications (like FSC or PEFC), the impact of digital media on demand, and fluctuating raw material costs. The EUDR and EUTR regulations are relevant due to the wood fiber content, requiring due diligence on timber sourcing to combat illegal logging.

Products Under This Code

Coated art paper, Glossy magazine paper, Brochure paper, Coated poster paper, High-quality printing paper, Coated book paper, Advertising flyer paper

Real World Examples

Sappi Magno Gloss, UPM Finesse Gloss, Stora Enso LumiArt, Domtar Lynx Opaque Ultra, International Paper Accent Opaque

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 481013 or 481014 (light-weight coated papers) due to similar coatings, but 481029 specifically excludes light-weight paper and focuses on higher mechanical fiber content. It can also be confused with uncoated papers (e.g., 4802) if the coating isn't properly identified.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.

This product is covered by the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), requiring operators to exercise due diligence to minimize the risk of placing illegally harvested timber on the EU market.

Products Classified Under 4810.29

Coated mechanical paperHeavy coated paper

Related Codes

4810.13 Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances, for printing & writing, graphics, containing no, or not more than 10% by weight of total fibres obtained by mechanical or chemi-mechanical process, in rolls 4810.14 Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances, for printing/writing/graphics, having 10% or less by weight of total fibres got mechanical/chemi-mechanical process, sheets, sides 435mm or less by 297mm or less, unfolded, 4810.19 Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances, for printing/writing/graphics, having 10% or less by weight of total fibres got by mechanical/chemi-mechanical process, sides exceeding 435mm and 297mm, unfolded, sheets 4810.22 Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, having more than 10% of mechanical or chemi-mechanical processed fibres, for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, light-weight coated paper, in rolls or sheets 4810.31 Kraft paper and paperboard; uniformly bleached throughout, coated with inorganic substances, more than 95% of chemically processed wood fibres, weight 150g/m2 or less, for non-graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets 4810.32 Kraft paper and paperboard; uniformly bleached throughout, coated with inorganic substances, more than 95% of chemically processed wood fibres, weight more than 150g/m2, for non-graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets 4810.39 Kraft paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, for non-graphic purposes, n.e.c. in item no. 4810.31 and 4810.32, in rolls or sheets 4810.92 Paper and paperboard; multi-ply, coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, for non-graphic purposes, n.e.c. in heading no. 4810, in rolls or sheets 4810.99 Paper and paperboard; coated with inorganic substances only, whether or not surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, n.e.c. in heading no. 4810, in rolls or sheets

Industry

This code belongs to the Paper & Printing industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include the USA, Germany, and China, while major exporters are Finland, Sweden, and Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 481029?

HS code 481029 covers: Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, having more than 10% of mechanically processed fibres, (excluding light-weight paper), for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets. This code encompasses a significant segment of the global paper trade, specifically focusing on coated papers used for high-quality printing and graphic applications. These papers are characterized by their inorganic coating, often kaolin, which provides a smooth, bright surface essential for vibrant color reproduction and sharp text. The presence of more than 10% mechanically processed fibers indicates a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of commercial printing needs. Major importers include countries with robust publishing, advertising, and packaging industries, such as the United States, Germany, and China, which demand large volumes of high-quality print media. Exporters are typically countries with strong pulp and paper manufacturing capabilities, like Finland, Sweden, and Canada, alongside emerging players in Asia. Key considerations for trade include environmental certifications (like FSC or PEFC), the impact of digital media on demand, and fluctuating raw material costs. The EUDR and EUTR regulations are relevant due to the wood fiber content, requiring due diligence on timber sourcing to combat illegal logging.

What products fall under HS code 481029?

Coated art paper, Glossy magazine paper, Brochure paper, Coated poster paper, High-quality printing paper, Coated book paper, Advertising flyer paper

What are common misclassifications for HS code 481029?

This code is often confused with 481013 or 481014 (light-weight coated papers) due to similar coatings, but 481029 specifically excludes light-weight paper and focuses on higher mechanical fiber content. It can also be confused with uncoated papers (e.g., 4802) if the coating isn't properly identified.

How is HS code 481029 structured?

HS code 481029 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (48) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (10) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (29) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.