HS Code 96.10 – Slates and boards, with writing or drawing surfaces, whether or not framed

HS code 9610 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Slates and boards, with writing or drawing surfaces, whether or not framed. Heading 9610 encompasses slates and boards designed with writing or drawing surfaces, irrespective of whether they are framed or not. This broad classification covers a range of visual communication tools used in educational, office, and home environments. It includes traditional chalkboards, modern whiteboards (magnetic or non-magnetic), glass dry-erase boards, and similar items where the primary function is to provide a reusable surface for writing or drawing. The key characteristic is the passive nature of the writing surface, distinguishing it from interactive or 'smart' boards that incorporate electronic display or computing functions (typically classified in 8471 or 8528). The scope explicitly excludes boards without a writing surface, such as simple cork notice boards. Sub-categories include various materials (e.g., porcelain steel, melamine, glass) and mounting types (wall-mounted, easel, portable). Accurate classification under 9610 is essential for proper customs valuation, duty assessment, and adherence to any specific product standards related to materials or safety. This heading is a practical component of Chapter 96, reflecting its role in providing essential, yet diverse, manufactured articles for daily use across different sectors globally.

Traditional chalkboards, magnetic whiteboards, glass dry-erase boards, cork-backed whiteboards, framed blackboards, unframed whiteboards, children's mini chalkboards, portable whiteboards, easel whiteboards, classroom chalkboards, office presentation boards, wall-mounted whiteboards, double-sided whiteboards, ceramic steel whiteboards, magnetic chalkboards, large format whiteboards, rolling whiteboards, desktop whiteboards, self-adhesive whiteboards, green chalkboards, projection whiteboards.

Traders often misclassify interactive whiteboards or 'smartboards' under 9610; these are typically classified under 8528 (monitors and projectors) or 8471 (automatic data processing machines) due to their electronic and interactive functionalities. Heading 9610 is strictly for passive writing surfaces. Another error is classifying simple cork notice boards without a writing surface, which would fall under other headings like 4420 (wood) or 3926 (plastics) if framed. Additionally, large paper pads or flip charts, being paper products, would be classified in Chapter 48, not as boards. The key distinction for 9610 is the reusable, non-electronic writing or drawing surface.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 9610 in UN Comtrade data were China ($525M, 70% of world exports), the Netherlands ($31M) and Poland ($30M). World exports came to about $748M, 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 9610 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($120M, 18% of world imports), the Philippines ($62M) and Germany ($55M). World imports came to about $650M, 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.

HS code 9610 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 96 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (96) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (10) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.