About HS Code 960920
This HS code specifically covers pencil leads, whether black (graphite) or colored, designed for use in mechanical pencils or as standalone drawing implements. These leads, typically made from a mixture of graphite, clay, and polymers for black leads, or pigments and binders for colored leads, are crucial consumables for continuous writing and drawing without the need for sharpening. International trade involves specialized manufacturers supplying these leads to stationery brands, educational suppliers, and art material distributors across the globe. Importers are often mechanical pencil manufacturers, stationery retailers, and art supply stores, while exporters are specialized lead producers with expertise in material science. Key considerations include lead diameter (e.g., 0.5mm, 0.7mm), hardness grades (e.g., HB, 2B), and the vibrancy and lightfastness of colored leads. The precision and consistency of these leads are paramount for quality writing and drawing.
Products Under This Code
Graphite pencil leads, colored pencil leads, mechanical pencil refills, polymer leads, charcoal leads (unencased), pastel leads
Real World Examples
Pentel Ain Stein leads, Uni Kuru Toga leads, Faber-Castell Polychromos leads, Rotring Tikky leads, Pilot Neox Graphite leads
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from complete pencils (9609.10) which have leads encased in wood, and from drawing charcoals (9609.90) which are typically thicker and less refined. It also differs from ink refills for pens (9608.60).
Products Classified Under 9609.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles industry.
Trade Overview
Japan, China, and Germany are prominent in the production and global trade of high-quality pencil leads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 960920?
HS code 960920 covers: Pencil leads; black or coloured. This HS code specifically covers pencil leads, whether black (graphite) or colored, designed for use in mechanical pencils or as standalone drawing implements. These leads, typically made from a mixture of graphite, clay, and polymers for black leads, or pigments and binders for colored leads, are crucial consumables for continuous writing and drawing without the need for sharpening. International trade involves specialized manufacturers supplying these leads to stationery brands, educational suppliers, and art material distributors across the globe. Importers are often mechanical pencil manufacturers, stationery retailers, and art supply stores, while exporters are specialized lead producers with expertise in material science. Key considerations include lead diameter (e.g., 0.5mm, 0.7mm), hardness grades (e.g., HB, 2B), and the vibrancy and lightfastness of colored leads. The precision and consistency of these leads are paramount for quality writing and drawing.
What products fall under HS code 960920?
Graphite pencil leads, colored pencil leads, mechanical pencil refills, polymer leads, charcoal leads (unencased), pastel leads
What are common misclassifications for HS code 960920?
This code is distinct from complete pencils (9609.10) which have leads encased in wood, and from drawing charcoals (9609.90) which are typically thicker and less refined. It also differs from ink refills for pens (9608.60).
How is HS code 960920 structured?
HS code 960920 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (96) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.