About HS Code 970400
This code specifically covers philatelic items, including postage and revenue stamps, stamp-postmarks, first-day covers, and postal stationery, whether used or unused, intended for collection. This is a highly specialized global trade driven by collectors, dealers, and auction houses. The value of these items is determined by their rarity, condition, historical significance, and demand within the philatelic community. Key things to know include the importance of expert authentication, grading, and understanding the nuances of different issues and errors. Importers and exporters are typically specialized dealers, auctioneers, and individual collectors participating in a robust international market for these unique historical documents. The trade often involves secure, insured shipping for high-value items.
Products Under This Code
Rare postage stamps, first-day covers, revenue stamps, stamp sheets, postal stationery, commemorative stamps, stamp-postmarks, philatelic covers
Real World Examples
'Penny Black' stamp, 'Inverted Jenny' stamp, British Guiana 1c Magenta, Mauritius 'Post Office' stamps
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 490700 (unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of current or new issue) if they are not primarily for collection, or 4911 (other printed matter) if not clearly philatelic.
Products Classified Under 9704.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Art & Antiques industry.
Trade Overview
Germany, USA, UK, and Switzerland are major hubs for the international trade and auction of philatelic items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 970400?
HS code 970400 covers: Stamps, postage or revenue; stamp-postmarks, first-day covers, postal stationery (stamped paper) and like, used or unused, other than those of heading 4907. This code specifically covers philatelic items, including postage and revenue stamps, stamp-postmarks, first-day covers, and postal stationery, whether used or unused, intended for collection. This is a highly specialized global trade driven by collectors, dealers, and auction houses. The value of these items is determined by their rarity, condition, historical significance, and demand within the philatelic community. Key things to know include the importance of expert authentication, grading, and understanding the nuances of different issues and errors. Importers and exporters are typically specialized dealers, auctioneers, and individual collectors participating in a robust international market for these unique historical documents. The trade often involves secure, insured shipping for high-value items.
What products fall under HS code 970400?
Rare postage stamps, first-day covers, revenue stamps, stamp sheets, postal stationery, commemorative stamps, stamp-postmarks, philatelic covers
What are common misclassifications for HS code 970400?
Can be confused with 490700 (unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of current or new issue) if they are not primarily for collection, or 4911 (other printed matter) if not clearly philatelic.
How is HS code 970400 structured?
HS code 970400 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (97) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.