HS 321310 Colours in sets
Quick Answer: Colours in sets imported under HS 321310 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at 6.5% ad valorem (MFN). This classification applies to sets of colours, such as watercolour paints, gouache, tempera, oil paints, acrylic paints, and pastels, presented in a manner for retail sale as a set. These sets are typically packaged together for artistic or educational purposes. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on preferential trade agreements, particularly in the US where certain countries benefit from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3213100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3213100000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3213100000 | 6.5% on the entire set | Free (17 programs) | ["pcs"] |
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 3213.10?
Imports of Colours in sets 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 321310 cover?
This subheading covers colours in sets, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. This includes paints, varnishes, and similar artistic colours presented in assortments or sets, typically for use in painting, drawing, or other artistic applications. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the key criterion is the presentation of colours in a collection or set, irrespective of the specific pigment or binder used, provided they are intended for artistic purposes.
What falls outside HS 321310?
The following products are excluded from HS 321310: individual colours not presented in a set, industrial paints and varnishes (which fall under Chapter 3208 or 3209), printing inks (HS 3215), and crayons or pastels not specifically presented as part of an artistic colour set. For instance, a single tube of artist's oil paint would not be classified here, nor would bulk quantities of pigment powder intended for industrial use. The defining characteristic remains the presentation as a curated set for artistic creation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 321310?
A common error is misclassifying individual art supplies that are not part of a set under this subheading, contrary to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the HS, which states classification shall be determined according to the terms of the heading and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. For example, a single watercolor pan or a tube of gouache paint, if imported separately, would not fall under HS 321310. Importers must ensure the product is indeed presented as a collection or assortment of colours.
How should importers classify products under HS 321310?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 321310 involves verifying that the goods are indeed colours presented in a set for artistic use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product packaging and descriptions to confirm the assortment. Reference to the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the product meets the criteria of being a set of artistic colours, HS 321310 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 321310?
A set of 12 watercolor paints, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($50 USD × 0.07 = $3.50). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 3213.10.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 321310?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 321310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in Free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and origin country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 321310, 'Colours in sets'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 321310, 'Colours in sets', can vary. For example, the United States applies a 6.5% ad valorem duty. However, many preferential trade agreements offer reduced or free entry. For instance, under agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), or South Korea (KR), the duty rate may be Free (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment.
How is the duty calculated for a shipment of colours in sets under HS 321310?
The duty for HS 321310 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of colours in sets has a declared customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 6.5%, the import duty would be $10,000 \times 0.065 = $650. Some countries may also have specific duties based on weight or other units, but for this code, ad valorem is most common. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What defines 'Colours in sets' for HS classification under 321310?
HS code 321310 covers paints and similar preparations, typically in a presentation for retail sale as artists', students', or similar colours. This includes items like watercolour sets, oil paint sets, acrylic paint sets, and crayons, usually packaged together in a box or container. The key criterion is that the colours are presented as a collection or set, intended for artistic or similar use, rather than individual tubes or containers of paint sold separately. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System is recommended for precise classification guidance.
Which major trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 321310?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 321310. For example, the United States has agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Mexico (MX) under the USMCA, which often grant duty-free access. The European Union's TARIC system details preferential rates under its various trade agreements with countries worldwide. Importers should verify the specific terms and origin requirements of applicable trade agreements to claim preferential treatment.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing colours in sets (HS 321310) beyond a standard commercial invoice and packing list?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, importing colours in sets (HS 321310) may require additional documentation depending on the destination country and the composition of the colours. For instance, if the colours contain pigments that could be considered hazardous, safety data sheets (SDS) or certificates of conformity might be necessary to comply with chemical regulations. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a certificate of origin is typically mandatory. Always consult the importing country's customs regulations and the relevant government agencies for specific requirements.