HS Code Subheading

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

4810.39 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 481039

This residual HS code within the kraft paper and paperboard category covers materials coated with inorganic substances for non-graphic purposes, but which do not fit the specific criteria of 481031 (lightweight, bleached, >95% chemical pulp) or 481032 (heavyweight, bleached, >95% chemical pulp). This implies a broader range of kraft papers that might be unbleached, partially bleached, or have a lower percentage of chemically processed wood fibers, yet still feature an inorganic coating for enhanced surface properties. These papers are typically used in various industrial and packaging applications where the specific brightness or fiber purity of 481031/32 isn't strictly necessary, but a coated surface is beneficial. Importers are diverse, including manufacturing hubs and consumer goods markets globally, seeking cost-effective coated packaging solutions. Exporters are generally countries with significant pulp and paper industries. Trade considerations include the balance between cost and performance, environmental certifications, and the growing demand for sustainable packaging. EUDR and EUTR compliance is relevant due to the wood fiber content.

Products Under This Code

Coated unbleached kraft paper, Coated brown kraftliner, Industrial packaging paper (coated), Coated sack paper, Coated corrugated medium, Protective packaging paper, Coated specialty kraft

Real World Examples

Smurfit Kappa CKB (unbleached variants), BillerudKorsnäs X-Kraft, Mondi EcoVantage, WestRock Coated Unbleached Kraft, International Paper Coated Industrial Kraft

Common Misclassification

This code is a "not elsewhere specified" category, making misclassification common with 481031 or 481032 if the specific bleaching or fiber content criteria are overlooked. It can also be confused with other coated paperboards (e.g., 481099) if the "kraft" characteristic is not clearly defined.

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 4810.39

Industry

This code belongs to the Paper & Printing industry.

Trade Overview

Global importers include manufacturing and packaging industries in the USA, Germany, and China, with major exporters being Sweden, Finland, and Brazil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 481039?

HS code 481039 covers: 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. This residual HS code within the kraft paper and paperboard category covers materials coated with inorganic substances for non-graphic purposes, but which do not fit the specific criteria of 481031 (lightweight, bleached, >95% chemical pulp) or 481032 (heavyweight, bleached, >95% chemical pulp). This implies a broader range of kraft papers that might be unbleached, partially bleached, or have a lower percentage of chemically processed wood fibers, yet still feature an inorganic coating for enhanced surface properties. These papers are typically used in various industrial and packaging applications where the specific brightness or fiber purity of 481031/32 isn't strictly necessary, but a coated surface is beneficial. Importers are diverse, including manufacturing hubs and consumer goods markets globally, seeking cost-effective coated packaging solutions. Exporters are generally countries with significant pulp and paper industries. Trade considerations include the balance between cost and performance, environmental certifications, and the growing demand for sustainable packaging. EUDR and EUTR compliance is relevant due to the wood fiber content.

What products fall under HS code 481039?

Coated unbleached kraft paper, Coated brown kraftliner, Industrial packaging paper (coated), Coated sack paper, Coated corrugated medium, Protective packaging paper, Coated specialty kraft

What are common misclassifications for HS code 481039?

This code is a "not elsewhere specified" category, making misclassification common with 481031 or 481032 if the specific bleaching or fiber content criteria are overlooked. It can also be confused with other coated paperboards (e.g., 481099) if the "kraft" characteristic is not clearly defined.

How is HS code 481039 structured?

HS code 481039 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 (39) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.