HS Code 48.14 – Wallpaper and similar wall coverings; window transparencies of paper

HS code 4814 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Wallpaper and similar wall coverings; window transparencies of paper. Heading 4814 covers wallpaper and similar wall coverings, as well as window transparencies made of paper. This classification is dedicated to decorative paper products primarily designed for interior architectural applications. It encompasses a wide variety of wallpapers, which can be printed, embossed, coated (e.g., with vinyl), or backed with other materials like non-woven textiles, provided the paper component remains dominant. Window transparencies, also made of paper, are included for decorative or privacy purposes. The scope is defined by the product's end-use as a decorative surface covering for walls or windows, distinguishing it from general printing papers, packaging materials, or wall coverings where the primary material is plastic or textile. For trade compliance, accurate classification under 4814 is essential for correct duty assessment, particularly in markets with active construction, interior design, and home renovation sectors. This heading represents a finished consumer product within Chapter 48, moving beyond raw paper forms to value-added decorative articles, highlighting the diverse applications of paper-based products in interior aesthetics and design.

Printed wallpaper, embossed wallpaper, vinyl-coated wallpaper, non-woven wallpaper (paper-backed), fabric-backed wallpaper (paper component dominant), textured wallpaper, metallic-effect wallpaper, paintable wallpaper, border wallpaper, mural wallpaper, children's wallpaper, self-adhesive wallpaper, peel-and-stick wallpaper, decorative window transparencies, frosted paper window film, stained-glass effect paper window film, privacy paper window screens, digitally printed custom wallpaper, grasscloth wallpaper (paper-backed), woodchip wallpaper, textile-effect paper wall coverings, geometric pattern wallpaper, holographic wallpaper, glitter wallpaper.

Common misclassifications arise when traders confuse wallpaper under 4814 with other decorative papers (e.g., gift wrap under 4823) or, more significantly, with wall coverings where paper is not the dominant material. For example, if a wall covering is primarily plastic (e.g., thick PVC sheets), it would fall under Chapter 39. If it's predominantly textile (e.g., woven wall hangings), it would likely fall under Chapter 59. The key differentiator for 4814 is that paper must be the *primary material* of the wall or window covering. Overlooking the material composition or the specific end-use for wall/window decoration can lead to incorrect tariff assignments.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 4814 in UN Comtrade data were China ($395M, 27% of world exports), Germany ($185M) and Belgium ($132M). World exports came to about $1.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 4814 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($118M, 9.5% of world imports), France ($106M) and the Netherlands ($83M). World imports came to about $1.3B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Uzbekistan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 33% of its imports here ($21M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.

HS code 4814 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 48 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (48) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (14) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.