HS Code for Coated printing paper
HS code 4810.13 is designated for coated printing paper presented in rolls. The classification logic follows the same chemical and material standards as other subheadings within 4810, focusing on the application of inorganic substances like kaolin or calcium carbonate. These coatings are essential for achieving the smoothness and ink absorption required for professional printing and graphics. To qualify for this specific code, the paper must be composed of at least 90% chemical wood pulp, meaning that mechanical or chemi-mechanical fibers must not exceed 10% of the total fiber weight. The defining characteristic of 4810.13 is its packaging format; it must be in rolls of any size. This distinguishes it from sheet-fed paper products. The coating must be inorganic; if the paper is coated with plastic, wax, or bitumen, it would fall under a different heading entirely. The coating process usually involves a binder such as starch or latex to adhere the inorganic minerals to the paper surface, creating a uniform finish suitable for offset or digital printing. This material is widely used in the commercial printing industry for magazines, catalogs, and high-end advertising materials where color fidelity and surface gloss are paramount.
Products Included
- Rolls of clay-coated paper for high-speed offset printing
- Inorganic coated graphic paper in continuous rolls
- Coated paperboard in rolls for commercial packaging production
- Lightweight coated paper (LWC) with less than 10% mechanical fiber in rolls
- Premium coated writing paper in bulk rolls for conversion
Common Misclassification
The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 4810.14, which applies to the same material but in small sheets. Another frequent error involves HS code 4810.22, which is for light-weight coated (LWC) paper in rolls but specifically for paper where more than 10% of the fiber content is mechanical. If the coating is organic (e.g., polyethylene), the product should be moved to heading 4811. Furthermore, if the paper is not coated but merely surface-sized, it might be incorrectly classified here instead of under heading 4802.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Coated printing paper?
The HS code for coated printing paper in rolls, with 10% or less mechanical fiber and inorganic coating, is 4810.13.
Can this code be used for paper in large sheets?
No, 4810.13 is exclusively for rolls. Large sheets (where at least one side exceeds 435mm) are classified under 4810.19, while smaller sheets are under 4810.14.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Coated printing paper?
The HS code for Coated printing paper is 481013 (Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances, for printing & writing, graphics, containing no, or not more than 10% by weight of total fibres obtained by mechanical or chemi-mechanical process, in rolls).
How do I classify Coated printing paper for customs?
Coated printing paper is classified under HS code 481013 — Paper and paperboard; coated with kaolin or other inorganic substances, for printing & writing, graphics, containing no, or not more than 10% by weight of total fibres obtained by mechanical or chemi-mechanical process, in rolls. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Coated printing paper the same in all countries?
The base HS code 481013 for Coated printing 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.