HS 321210 Stamping foils
Quick Answer: Stamping foils imported under HS 321210 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at 4.7% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This HS code covers foils, typically thin sheets of metal or plastic, often metallized or pigmented, used for decorative or functional purposes through a hot stamping process. These foils are commonly applied to paper, plastic, textiles, and leather for printing designs, text, or metallic effects. Importers and customs brokers should be aware of the varying MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rates across major markets and investigate potential preferential duty reductions for eligible goods. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3212100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3212100000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3212100000 | 4.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["m<sup>2</sup>"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 3212.10?
Imports of Stamping foils may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 321210 cover?
This subheading covers stamping foils, which are typically thin films or sheets, often made of plastic or metal, coated with pigments, binders, and other substances. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 3212, these foils are designed for transfer onto surfaces through heat and pressure, imparting a decorative or functional finish. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, generally including foils used for hot stamping on paper, plastics, textiles, and leather.
What falls outside HS 321210?
The following products are excluded from HS 321210: plain plastic films or sheets not intended for stamping (classified under Chapter 39), metallic foils not prepared for stamping (classified under Chapter 72-83), and printing inks in paste or liquid form (classified under Heading 3215). Also excluded are adhesive tapes with a carrier, unless specifically prepared as stamping foils, and decorative transfers that are applied with water or solvent. For instance, simple metallic leaf for gilding, not in foil form for stamping, would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 321210?
A common error is misclassifying plain plastic films or metallic sheets that are not specifically prepared or coated for the stamping process. General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) 1 and 3 are crucial here. For example, a roll of plain aluminum foil, even if it could theoretically be used for stamping, would not be classified under 321210 unless it possesses the specific coatings and preparation characteristic of stamping foils. Importers may also err by classifying finished printed articles instead of the stamping foil itself.
How should importers classify products under HS 321210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 321210 involves a detailed examination of the product's composition, preparation, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's technical specifications, manufacturer's declarations, and the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). Key considerations include whether the material is a thin film or sheet, its coating (pigments, binders), and its specific design for transfer via heat and pressure. Cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes is essential for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 321210?
A roll of gold-colored hot stamping foil for plastic applications, weighing 1 kilogram and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be calculated as 3.5% of $50.00, resulting in a duty amount of $1.75. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, applied to the declared customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 321210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 321210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible stamping foils originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may offer preferential rates for eligible originating goods from member countries like Vietnam, often resulting in duty-free entry. Documentation requirements vary by agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 321210 (Stamping foils) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 321210 (Stamping foils) is 6.50% ad valorem. This rate is applied to the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if goods with a customs value of $10,000 are imported, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.065 = $650. It's crucial to check the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USITC) for any specific product variations or temporary duty suspensions that might apply. Preferential rates may be available under Free Trade Agreements, so always verify eligibility and required documentation.
How are stamping foils classified under HS code 321210, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 321210 covers 'Stamping foils'. The key classification criterion is that the product consists of thin films, typically of metal (like aluminum or copper) or plastic, coated with pigments or metallic powders, and designed for application to surfaces by means of heat and pressure, commonly referred to as hot stamping. These foils are usually supplied in rolls or sheets. Products that do not meet this definition, such as simple decorative films or transfer papers not intended for hot stamping, would be classified elsewhere.
What documentation is typically required for importing stamping foils (HS 321210) into the EU?
When importing stamping foils (HS 321210) into the European Union, standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and specific nature of the goods, additional documents may be necessary. For goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements with the EU, an 'EUR.1' movement certificate or an invoice declaration may be required to claim reduced duty rates. Importers should consult the EU's TARIC database for the most up-to-date and specific requirements, including any potential import licenses or conformity assessments.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for stamping foils (HS 321210) into the UK, and what are the implications?
The United Kingdom has various trade agreements that can offer preferential duty rates for stamping foils (HS 321210). For instance, under the UK's Free Trade Agreement with Australia (AU), Canada (CA), and other partner countries listed as 'Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)', the duty rate could be 0.00% ad valorem, provided the goods meet the rules of origin and the importer holds the necessary proof of origin. The UK Trade Tariff provides detailed information on these rates and the conditions for claiming them. Importers must ensure their goods qualify and that they have the correct documentation, such as a declaration of origin.
Can you provide an example of how duty is calculated for stamping foils imported into Canada?
In Canada, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff for HS code 321210 (Stamping foils) is 6.50% ad valorem. If a Canadian importer brings in stamping foils valued at CAD $5,000, the customs duty would be calculated as follows: $5,000 \times 0.065 = $325 CAD. If the goods originate from a country with a preferential agreement, such as under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), the duty rate could be 0.00%, provided the goods meet the CUSMA rules of origin and the importer can provide a valid Certificate of Origin. Always refer to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for the definitive tariff treatment.