Product classification
HS code for Propelling pencil: 9608.40
Pencils, propelling or sliding.
Classification of propelling pencil under HS 9608.40
Propelling pencils, also known as mechanical or sliding pencils, are classified under HS code 9608.40. This classification is determined by the mechanical nature of the writing instrument. Unlike traditional wood-cased pencils, propelling pencils feature a mechanism—such as a screw, spring, or gravity-fed system—that advances a replaceable lead core through the tip. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6, the product is categorized under Heading 9608, which encompasses various pens and mechanical writing tools. The specific subheading 9608.40 is reserved for propelling or sliding pencils. The classification remains consistent regardless of the material of the outer casing, whether it be plastic, common metal, or precious metal, provided the primary function is a mechanical pencil. The inclusion of an eraser or a clip does not alter this classification, as these are considered integral parts or accessories of the main article. The technical distinction is the presence of a mechanical lead-advancing system, which separates it from the non-mechanical pencils found in heading 9609.
- Covers
- Mechanical pencils with screw mechanisms
- Click-type propelling pencils
- Sliding pencils for technical drawing
- Automatic pencils with gravity feed
- Clutch pencils (lead holders) with mechanical release
- Also under 9608.40
Pentel P205, Uni Kuru Toga, Rotring 600, Faber-Castell Grip 2011, Pilot Dr. Grip
Codes often confused with 9608.40
Common mistake. A frequent error involves confusing propelling pencils (9608.40) with standard wood-cased pencils, which are classified under HS code 9609.10. The distinction lies in the mechanism; 9608 covers instruments with a mechanical component to advance the lead, while 9609 covers pencils where the lead is encased in a rigid sheath (usually wood) and requires sharpening. Additionally, pencil leads imported separately are classified under 9609.20, not 9608.40. Another potential confusion arises with multi-function pens that include a pencil component; these are generally classified under 9608.40 or 9608.10 based on the GRI 3(b) principle of essential character, depending on which function is predominant or if the pencil mechanism is the primary feature.
Top exporters and importers of HS 960840 (the code used for propelling pencil), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 960840 (the code used for propelling pencil) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 32% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 960840, not only propelling pencil.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $81M 29% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $55M 20% of world exports
- 3 Japan $48M 17% of world exports
World total: $283M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $82M 32% of world imports
- 2 Mexico $18M 7.0% of world imports
- 3 Türkiye $15M 5.8% of world imports
World total: $259M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for propelling pencil
Brazil classifies propelling pencil under NCM 9608.40.00: HS 9608.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about propelling pencil
What is the HS code for Propelling pencil?
The HS code for Propelling pencil is 960840 (Pencils; propelling or sliding). The HS code for a propelling pencil is 9608.40. This code specifically covers pencils that utilize a mechanical or sliding system to advance the lead core.
How do I classify Propelling pencil for customs?
Propelling pencil is classified under HS code 960840 — Pencils; propelling or sliding. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are lead refills classified under the same HS code?
No, lead refills are classified under HS code 9609.20. While the pencil itself is in 9608.40, the graphite or colored leads are considered separate consumable components and fall under the heading for pencils and leads not elsewhere specified.
Which countries are the top exporters of propelling pencil (HS 960840)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 960840 (the code used for propelling pencil) in UN Comtrade data were China ($81M, 29% of world exports), Mexico ($55M) and Japan ($48M). World exports came to about $283M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of propelling pencil (HS 960840)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 960840 (the code used for propelling pencil) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($82M, 32% of world imports), Mexico ($18M) and Türkiye ($15M). World imports came to about $259M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Propelling pencil the same in all countries?
The base HS code 960840 for Propelling pencil is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for propelling pencil in Brazil?
In Brazil, propelling pencil (HS 960840) is classified under NCM 9608.40.00.