About HS Code 481820
This category encompasses a broad range of disposable paper products vital for personal hygiene and general cleaning, including handkerchiefs, facial tissues, and paper towels. These items are in constant global demand across households, commercial establishments, and healthcare settings. International trade is characterized by large-scale manufacturing and sophisticated distribution networks, often involving multinational consumer goods corporations. Importers include major retail chains, hospitality sectors, and healthcare facilities, while exporters leverage economies of scale in pulp and paper production. Key competitive factors in this market include absorbency, softness, strength, and increasingly, the use of recycled or sustainably sourced materials, reflecting growing consumer and regulatory environmental concerns.
Products Under This Code
Facial tissues, paper handkerchiefs, kitchen paper towels, industrial paper wipes, medical examination paper towels, bathroom hand towels (paper), paper napkins (for personal use)
Real World Examples
Kleenex Tissues, Bounty Paper Towels, Viva Paper Towels, Puffs Plus Lotion Tissues, Scott Multifold Paper Towels
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 4803.00 (toilet or facial tissue stock) if in bulk rolls for conversion, or 4823.90 (other paper articles) if the specific function isn't clearly 'handkerchiefs, tissues, or towels'.
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 4818.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Paper & Printing industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, Germany, and Japan are major importers, while China, Canada, and Sweden are leading exporters of these paper hygiene products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 481820?
HS code 481820 covers: Paper articles; handkerchiefs, cleansing or facial tissues and towels. This category encompasses a broad range of disposable paper products vital for personal hygiene and general cleaning, including handkerchiefs, facial tissues, and paper towels. These items are in constant global demand across households, commercial establishments, and healthcare settings. International trade is characterized by large-scale manufacturing and sophisticated distribution networks, often involving multinational consumer goods corporations. Importers include major retail chains, hospitality sectors, and healthcare facilities, while exporters leverage economies of scale in pulp and paper production. Key competitive factors in this market include absorbency, softness, strength, and increasingly, the use of recycled or sustainably sourced materials, reflecting growing consumer and regulatory environmental concerns.
What products fall under HS code 481820?
Facial tissues, paper handkerchiefs, kitchen paper towels, industrial paper wipes, medical examination paper towels, bathroom hand towels (paper), paper napkins (for personal use)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 481820?
Can be confused with 4803.00 (toilet or facial tissue stock) if in bulk rolls for conversion, or 4823.90 (other paper articles) if the specific function isn't clearly 'handkerchiefs, tissues, or towels'.
How is HS code 481820 structured?
HS code 481820 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (48) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (18) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.