HS 321511 Printing ink
Quick Answer: Printing ink imported under HS 321511 enters the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US with rates varying from Free to 10% ad valorem. This code specifically covers printing ink in liquid or paste form, including inks for printing, writing, and drawing. Importers should be aware of potential variations in US duty rates based on specific ink types. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate duty assessment and compliance. Exporters and customs brokers should verify the precise tariff classification and applicable rates for each destination market to ensure smooth customs clearance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215110000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215110000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215111000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3215113000 | 1.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3215119010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3215119020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3215119030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 3215.11?
Imports of Printing ink 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 321511 cover?
This subheading covers printing ink specifically designed for use in printing, encompassing a wide range of formulations such as lithographic (offset) printing inks, gravure inks, flexographic inks, and screen printing inks. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these inks are typically composed of pigments, binders, solvents, and additives, intended for application to various substrates like paper, plastic, or metal. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to inks in paste or liquid form ready for printing.
What falls outside HS 321511?
The following products are excluded from HS 321511: inks not intended for printing, such as writing inks (classified under 321590), inks for marking animals (classified under 321590), and inks for inkjet printers (often classified under 321519, depending on formulation and presentation). Also excluded are raw materials for ink production, such as pigments (Chapter 32), resins, or solvents when imported separately. Products that are essentially paints or varnishes, even if they can be applied by printing methods, are generally classified under Chapter 3208 or 3209.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 321511?
A common error is misclassifying inks for specialized printing technologies, such as those for inkjet printers or 3D printing, under HS 321511. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) mandates classification based on the most specific heading and subheading. For instance, inks specifically formulated for inkjet printers, often sold in cartridges, are typically classified under HS 321519. Another mistake involves confusing printing inks with paints or coatings, which have different applications and chemical compositions, leading to incorrect duty rates.
How should importers classify products under HS 321511?
The correct procedure for classifying printing inks under HS 321511 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. Key factors include whether the ink is specifically formulated for printing processes like offset, gravure, or flexography, and its physical form (paste or liquid). If the ink is for inkjet printers, a separate subheading (321519) is usually applicable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 321511?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of standard offset printing ink, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 3.5% of $5,000 USD = $175.00. This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS code 321511. Note that specific inks might have different rates.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 321511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 321511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free 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 eligible goods from member countries like Japan. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 321511 (Printing ink, in black or in color)?
Import duty rates for HS code 321511 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem. Under the UK Trade Tariff, the standard rate is 3.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can be influenced by trade agreements and origin of goods. Always verify the applicable rate based on the country of origin.
How is the import duty for printing ink (HS 321511) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for printing ink under HS 321511 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if printing ink valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States and the MFN duty rate is 6.5%, the duty would be calculated as $10,000 × 6.5% = $650. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for printing ink under HS code 321511?
HS code 321511 specifically covers printing ink, in black or in color. The primary criterion is the ink's intended use for printing. It must be a preparation designed to be applied to a surface to form an image or text through a printing process. This includes inks for letterpress, offset, gravure, flexographic, screen printing, and digital printing. Exclusions might apply to inks that are primarily considered pigments or dyes in their unformulated state, or preparations for other specific applications not related to printing.
Are there preferential duty rates available for printing ink (HS 321511) under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates for printing ink (HS 321511) are often available under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific bilateral FTAs may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates when imported into the EU. Similarly, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may have different duty rates compared to the MFN rate. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing printing ink (HS 321511)?
Standard import documentation for printing ink (HS 321511) generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. Some jurisdictions may also require safety data sheets (SDS) or specific product declarations to ensure compliance with chemical regulations or environmental standards. It is advisable to consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents.