HS Code for Shopping bags

Shopping bags made of paper are classified under HS code 4819.40. This code specifically addresses sacks and bags, including cones, made of paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding, or webs of cellulose fibers, provided they have a base width of less than 40 cm. The classification is based on the material composition (paper) and the physical dimensions of the product. These bags are typically used in retail environments for carrying purchased goods. The construction of the bag, whether it has handles or is a simple flat-bottomed sack, falls under this heading as long as the material and size criteria are met. This heading excludes bags made of textile materials or plastics, which are classified based on their respective material chapters. The 40 cm width threshold is a critical distinction in the Harmonized System, separating smaller retail bags from larger industrial sacks used for bulk commodities.

Products Included

• Paper retail shopping bags with handles
• Small paper grocery sacks
• Boutique paper bags
• Paper gift bags with a base width under 40cm

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs when paper shopping bags are confused with plastic shopping bags, which fall under HS code 3923.21 or 3923.29. Another frequent error involves the size of the bag; if the base width is 40 cm or more, the bag must be classified under HS code 4819.30. Furthermore, high-end shopping bags made of reinforced materials or those intended for long-term reuse are sometimes incorrectly classified under HS code 4202, which covers trunks, suitcases, and handbags. However, if the primary material is paper or paperboard, heading 4819 remains the correct classification regardless of the bag's durability or aesthetic finish.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Shopping bags?

The HS code for paper shopping bags with a base width of less than 40 cm is 4819.40.

What if the paper bag is larger than 40 cm?

If the base width of the paper bag is 40 cm or more, it should be classified under HS code 4819.30.