About HS Code 961220
This HS code covers ink pads, whether or not inked, and with or without boxes. These essential accessories are used with traditional rubber stamps and other hand-operated marking devices. An ink pad typically consists of a porous material saturated with ink, often housed in a protective casing. They are widely used in offices, for crafting, in educational settings, and for various administrative tasks to apply ink to stamps before making an impression. International trade involves manufacturers supplying these consumables to stationery distributors, craft stores, and office supply retailers worldwide. Importers are often general stationery wholesalers, while exporters are manufacturers specializing in ink formulation and porous material technology. Key aspects include ink color variety, quick-drying properties, archival quality for important documents, and the longevity of the ink supply within the pad. They are a fundamental component of traditional stamping.
Products Under This Code
Stamp pads (pre-inked), uninked stamp pads, craft ink pads, fingerprint ink pads, archival ink pads, pigment ink pads, dye ink pads
Real World Examples
Trodat Ink Pads, StazOn Ink Pads, VersaMark Ink Pads, Ranger Distress Ink Pads, Tsukineko Memento Ink Pads
Common Misclassification
This code should not be confused with liquid inks sold separately (3215.90) or complete self-inking stamps (9611.00) where the ink reservoir is integrated into the stamp mechanism. It also differs from sponges (9603.90).
Products Classified Under 9612.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles industry.
Trade Overview
Japan, China, and the United States are major players in the production and global trade of ink pads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 961220?
HS code 961220 covers: Ink pads; whether or not inked, with or without boxes. This HS code covers ink pads, whether or not inked, and with or without boxes. These essential accessories are used with traditional rubber stamps and other hand-operated marking devices. An ink pad typically consists of a porous material saturated with ink, often housed in a protective casing. They are widely used in offices, for crafting, in educational settings, and for various administrative tasks to apply ink to stamps before making an impression. International trade involves manufacturers supplying these consumables to stationery distributors, craft stores, and office supply retailers worldwide. Importers are often general stationery wholesalers, while exporters are manufacturers specializing in ink formulation and porous material technology. Key aspects include ink color variety, quick-drying properties, archival quality for important documents, and the longevity of the ink supply within the pad. They are a fundamental component of traditional stamping.
What products fall under HS code 961220?
Stamp pads (pre-inked), uninked stamp pads, craft ink pads, fingerprint ink pads, archival ink pads, pigment ink pads, dye ink pads
What are common misclassifications for HS code 961220?
This code should not be confused with liquid inks sold separately (3215.90) or complete self-inking stamps (9611.00) where the ink reservoir is integrated into the stamp mechanism. It also differs from sponges (9603.90).
How is HS code 961220 structured?
HS code 961220 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (96) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.