Product classification
HS code for Vitrifiable decals: 4908.10
Printed matter, transfers (decalcomanias), vitrifiable.
Classification of vitrifiable decals under HS 4908.10
Vitrifiable decals are classified under HS code 4908.10. These products are a specific type of transfer (decalcomania) used in the decoration of ceramics, glass, or metal. The classification is found in Chapter 49, which covers printed books, newspapers, pictures, and other products of the printing industry. Heading 4908 is dedicated to transfers, and the subheading 4908.10 specifically isolates those that are "vitrifiable." The term vitrifiable implies that the inks or pigments used in the printing process contain glass frit or other mineral substances that will fuse with the surface of the object when fired in a kiln. This chemical fusion creates a permanent, durable bond that is resistant to wear and chemicals, distinguishing these decals from standard decorative stickers.
- Covers
- Ceramic overglaze decals
- Glassware transfers for kiln firing
- Enamel decals for metalware
- Vitrifiable labels for industrial glass
- Porcelain decoration transfers
- Also under 4908.10
- Royal Doulton ceramic decals
- Lenox china transfers
- decorative glass panel decals
- custom mug decoration transfers
Codes often confused with 4908.10
Common mistake. Vitrifiable decals are often misclassified under HS code 4908.90, which is the "other" category for transfers that are not vitrifiable (such as cold-set decals or temporary tattoos). Another common error is classifying them under 3919 if they have a self-adhesive backing; however, the vitrifiable nature of the print takes precedence in classification because the primary function is the transfer of a permanent, fired-on design. Additionally, they should not be confused with 3207, which covers the bulk vitrifiable enamels and glazes themselves, rather than the printed transfers.
Top exporters and importers of HS 490810 (the code used for vitrifiable decals), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 490810 (the code used for vitrifiable decals) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 28% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Hong Kong, with 27% of world imports. Vietnam did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 3.8% of its imports here ($488K, CEPII BACI), so it may rank higher.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 490810, not only vitrifiable decals.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $28M 28% of world exports
- 2 Hong Kong $23M 22% of world exports
- 3 Taiwan* ~$6.7M 6.6% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $102M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Hong Kong $33M 27% of world imports
- 2 Indonesia $13M 10% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$13M 10% of world imports · partner records ↗
Vietnam did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 3.8% of its imports here ($488K, CEPII BACI), so it may rank higher.
World total: $122M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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. UN Comtrade records Taiwan as "Other Asia, not elsewhere specified". Saudi Arabia's exports under that code are left out: they are far too large to be trade with Taiwan, so mostly undisclosed partners. 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 vitrifiable decals
Brazil classifies vitrifiable decals under NCM 4908.10.00: HS 4908.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
This product is covered by the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), requiring operators to exercise due diligence to minimize the risk of placing illegally harvested timber on the EU market.
Questions about vitrifiable decals
What is the HS code for Vitrifiable decals?
The HS code for Vitrifiable decals is 490810 (Printed matter; transfers (decalcomanias), vitrifiable). The HS code for vitrifiable transfers (decalcomanias) is 4908.10.
How do I classify Vitrifiable decals for customs?
Vitrifiable decals is classified under HS code 490810 — Printed matter; transfers (decalcomanias), vitrifiable. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What makes a decal "vitrifiable" for customs purposes?
A decal is vitrifiable if it is printed with substances that fuse into a glassy or ceramic layer when subjected to high heat, typically for use on glass or ceramic substrates.
Which countries are the top exporters of vitrifiable decals (HS 490810)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 490810 (the code used for vitrifiable decals) in UN Comtrade data were China ($28M, 28% of world exports), Hong Kong ($23M) and Taiwan (about $6.7M). World exports came to about $102M, 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 vitrifiable decals (HS 490810)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 490810 (the code used for vitrifiable decals) in UN Comtrade data were Hong Kong ($33M, 27% of world imports), Indonesia ($13M) and Vietnam (about $13M). World imports came to about $122M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Vietnam did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 3.8% of its imports here ($488K, CEPII BACI), so it may rank higher.
Is the HS code for Vitrifiable decals the same in all countries?
The base HS code 490810 for Vitrifiable decals 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 vitrifiable decals in Brazil?
In Brazil, vitrifiable decals (HS 490810) is classified under NCM 4908.10.00.