HS Code for Coated mechanical paper
Coated mechanical paper is classified under HS code 4810.29. This code covers paper and paperboard used for writing, printing, or graphic purposes where more than 10% of the total fiber content consists of fibers obtained by a mechanical or chemi-mechanical process. The paper must be coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances. This subheading specifically excludes "light-weight coated paper" (LWC), which has its own code (4810.22). Mechanical paper is generally more opaque and bulkier than woodfree paper but has lower archival stability. The coating is applied to improve the printability of the relatively rough mechanical fiber surface, making it suitable for mass-market publications.
Products Included
- Medium weight coated (MWC) mechanical paper
- Coated groundwood paper for magazines
- Heavyweight coated mechanical printing paper
- Coated catalog paper (non-LWC)
- Inorganic coated paper with high mechanical pulp content
Common Misclassification
The most frequent error is misclassifying this as 4810.22 (Light-weight coated paper). LWC paper is specifically defined as paper weighing not more than 72 g/m2 with a coating weight not exceeding 15 g/m2 per side. If the paper exceeds these weights, it falls under 4810.29. Another common mistake is 4810.19, which is for woodfree paper (mechanical fiber content of 10% or less). Importers must have a lab analysis of the fiber composition to accurately distinguish between these codes.
FAQ
What is the HS code for coated magazine paper?
If the paper has >10% mechanical fiber and is not light-weight (LWC), the HS code is 4810.29. LWC paper is 4810.22.
How is mechanical fiber content determined for HS classification?
It is determined by weight. If more than 10% of the total fiber mass is derived from mechanical or chemi-mechanical pulping, it is classified as mechanical paper.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Coated mechanical paper?
The HS code for Coated mechanical paper is 481029 (Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, having more than 10% of mechanically processed fibres, (excluding light-weight paper), for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets).
How do I classify Coated mechanical paper for customs?
Coated mechanical paper is classified under HS code 481029 — Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances only, having more than 10% of mechanically processed fibres, (excluding light-weight paper), for writing, printing or other graphic purposes, in rolls or sheets. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Coated mechanical paper the same in all countries?
The base HS code 481029 for Coated mechanical paper is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.