HS Code for Darkroom paper
Darkroom paper is classified under HS code 3703.90. This code falls under Chapter 37 (Photographic or cinematographic goods) and heading 3703, which covers photographic paper, paperboard, and textiles that are sensitised and unexposed. Darkroom paper is a specialized material coated with a light-sensitive emulsion, typically containing silver halide crystals suspended in gelatin. This paper is used in traditional chemical photography to produce prints from negatives. The subheading 3703.90 is used for paper intended for black and white photography (other than color) that is not provided in large rolls exceeding 610mm in width. The classification is strictly for unexposed material; once the paper has been exposed and developed, it moves to a different classification (3704 or 4911). The essential character of this product is its chemical sensitivity to light, which distinguishes it from standard printing papers.
Products Included
- Silver gelatin photographic paper
- Resin-coated (RC) darkroom paper
- Fiber-based (FB) darkroom paper
- Variable contrast (VC) photographic paper
- Bromide and chlorobromide papers
- Sensitised paperboard for photography
Common Misclassification
Darkroom paper is frequently misclassified under HS code 4802, which covers general purpose uncoated paper. However, because darkroom paper is chemically sensitised, it must remain in Chapter 37. Another common error is using 3703.20, which is specifically for color photography paper. If the paper is in rolls wider than 610mm, it must be classified under 3703.10. Additionally, modern inkjet photo paper is often incorrectly placed here; inkjet paper is not chemically sensitised and is usually classified under 4811 or 4802.
FAQ
What is the HS code for darkroom paper?
The HS code for darkroom paper (black and white, unexposed) is 3703.90.
Is inkjet photo paper classified under 3703.90?
No, inkjet photo paper is not light-sensitive in the chemical sense and is typically classified under Chapter 48, depending on its coating and weight.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Darkroom paper?
The HS code for Darkroom paper is 370390 (Photographic paper, paperboard and textiles; (for other than colour photography, other than in rolls of a width exceeding 610mm), sensitised, unexposed).
How do I classify Darkroom paper for customs?
Darkroom paper is classified under HS code 370390 — Photographic paper, paperboard and textiles; (for other than colour photography, other than in rolls of a width exceeding 610mm), sensitised, unexposed. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Darkroom paper the same in all countries?
The base HS code 370390 for Darkroom 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.