Product classification
HS code for Window transparencies: 4814.90
Wallpaper and similar wall coverings and window transparencies of paper, n.e.c. in heading 4814.
Classification of window transparencies under HS 4814.90
Window transparencies are classified under HS code 4814.90, which specifically covers wallpaper, similar wall coverings, and window transparencies made of paper. The classification is determined by the material composition of the product. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 48, this heading includes paper that is translucent or transparent, often printed with decorative designs, intended for use on window panes to simulate stained glass or provide privacy. The classification follows General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1, which dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since 4814 explicitly mentions window transparencies of paper, it takes precedence over general paper headings. It is important to note that the product must be primarily paper-based; if the transparency is composed of plastic film, it is excluded from this chapter and moved to the plastics section.
- Covers
- Decorative paper window films
- Translucent paper coverings for glass
- Stained-glass effect paper transparencies
- Privacy paper for window panes
- Printed paper transparencies in rolls or sheets
- Also under 4814.90
- Farrow & Ball wallpaper
- Cole & Son wallpaper
- various non-woven wallpaper brands
- Thibaut Designs
Codes often confused with 4814.90
Common mistake. The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 3919.10 or 3919.90, which covers self-adhesive plates, sheets, or film of plastics. Many modern window films are made of polyester or vinyl rather than paper. If the product is plastic-based, it must be classified under Chapter 39. Another common error is using HS code 4823.90 for other paper products, but 4814.90 is more specific for decorative wall and window coverings. Additionally, if the transparency is made of glass, it would fall under Chapter 70.
Top exporters and importers of HS 481490 (the code used for window transparencies), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 481490 (the code used for window transparencies) in UN Comtrade data was Sweden, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% 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 481490, not only window transparencies.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Sweden $73M 20% of world exports
- 2 Germany $55M 15% of world exports
- 3 United Kingdom $38M 11% of world exports
World total: $361M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $66M 20% of world imports
- 2 Netherlands $30M 9.4% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $28M 8.7% of world imports
World total: $321M 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 window transparencies
Brazil classifies window transparencies under NCM 4814.90.00: HS 4814.90 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 window transparencies
What is the HS code for Window transparencies?
The HS code for Window transparencies is 481490 (Wallpaper and similar wall coverings and window transparencies of paper; n.e.c. in heading 4814). The HS code for window transparencies made of paper is 4814.90. This code is part of the sub-heading for wallpaper and similar wall coverings.
How do I classify Window transparencies for customs?
Window transparencies is classified under HS code 481490 — Wallpaper and similar wall coverings and window transparencies of paper; n.e.c. in heading 4814. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include plastic window privacy film?
No, plastic-based window films are classified under HS code 3919 if they are self-adhesive, or 3920 if they are not self-adhesive. HS code 4814.90 is strictly for paper-based transparencies.
Which countries are the top exporters of window transparencies (HS 481490)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 481490 (the code used for window transparencies) in UN Comtrade data were Sweden ($73M, 20% of world exports), Germany ($55M) and the United Kingdom ($38M). World exports came to about $361M, 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 window transparencies (HS 481490)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 481490 (the code used for window transparencies) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($66M, 20% of world imports), the Netherlands ($30M) and the United Kingdom ($28M). World imports came to about $321M, 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 Window transparencies the same in all countries?
The base HS code 481490 for Window transparencies 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 window transparencies in Brazil?
In Brazil, window transparencies (HS 481490) is classified under NCM 4814.90.00.