HS 321519 Other
Quick Answer: Inks other than printing inks, when imported under HS 321519, enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 10%. This residual classification applies to inks not specifically covered by other subheadings within heading 3215, such as those for writing, drawing, or artistic purposes, or specialized industrial inks. Importers should carefully review the specific product composition and intended use to ensure accurate classification, as variations in formulation can lead to different tariff treatments. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate duty assessment and compliance across major trading blocs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215190020 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3215190000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3215190090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215190000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3215190020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3215190090 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215199010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 321519 | — | — | [] |
| 3215191000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3215193000 | 1.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 32151990 | 1.8% | Free (17 programs) | — |
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 3215.19?
Imports of Other 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 321519 cover?
This subheading covers printing inks not specified elsewhere within heading 3215, which includes inks for printing, writing, and other purposes. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this "Other" category is for inks that do not fit the specific descriptions of printing inks for newspapers, magazines, periodicals, books, or other printed matter, nor inks for writing or drawing. For example, specialized industrial inks for marking or coding on various materials, or inks for specific printing processes not otherwise detailed, would fall here. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on the scope of this residual category.
What falls outside HS 321519?
The following products are excluded from HS 321519: printing inks specifically designed for newspapers, magazines, periodicals, books, or other printed matter (HS 321511); inks for writing or drawing (HS 321590); and pigments, preparations based on pigments, and articles thereof, which are classified in other chapters of the HS. For instance, artist's paints, even if in liquid form, are typically classified under Chapter 32 but not within heading 3215. Similarly, colorants for plastics or textiles, unless specifically formulated as printing inks for paper or similar substrates, will be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 321519?
A common error is misclassifying specialized industrial inks under HS 321519 when they should be classified in a more specific subheading or even a different heading entirely, based on their intended use or composition. For example, inks for marking on food packaging might have specific regulatory requirements and classifications. Another mistake is failing to consider the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3, which dictates how to classify composite goods or mixtures. Importers may also incorrectly assume that any ink not explicitly mentioned elsewhere belongs here without consulting the detailed Explanatory Notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 321519?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 321519 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use, its physical and chemical properties, and its presentation. Importers and customs brokers should first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for heading 3215 and the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. If the ink is not specifically covered by HS 321511 (for newspapers, etc.) and is not an ink for writing or drawing, then it may fall under 321519. It is crucial to verify that the product is indeed a printing ink and not a pigment preparation or a paint.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 321519?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of black offset printing ink, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is $2,500 USD × 5.0% = $125.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 321519.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 321519?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 321519, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation required to claim preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, or a specific certificate of origin for other agreements, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific rules of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 321519 (Other printing ink)?
Import duty rates for HS code 321519 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.5% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may show different rates depending on the origin and specific product. The UK Trade Tariff also lists varying rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact duty applicable to your shipment. For instance, some countries may offer preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) which could be lower or even free.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 321519?
The duty for HS code 321519 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 printing ink classified under 321519 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 6.5%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.065 = $650. In some cases, specific duties (e.g., per liter or per kilogram) may apply, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What classification criteria distinguish printing inks under HS 321519 from other inks?
HS code 321519 falls under heading 3215, which covers 'Printing ink, writing or drawing ink and other inks, whether or not concentrated or solid'. Subheading 3215.19 specifically covers 'Other' printing inks not elsewhere specified within the heading (e.g., not specifically listed as inks for printing newspapers, magazines, periodicals, or for lithographic printing). The key criterion is that the ink must be intended for printing applications. If an ink is formulated for other uses, such as artistic painting or industrial marking (not printing), it would be classified elsewhere. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on the scope of heading 3215.
What documentation is typically required for importing printing inks under HS code 321519?
Standard import documentation for HS code 321519 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide safety data sheets (SDS) or other technical documentation to demonstrate compliance with any chemical safety regulations or product-specific standards in the destination market. Always confirm specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU FTAs, affect duty rates for HS code 321519?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods originating from member countries. For example, if printing ink classified under HS 321519 originates from a country that is part of a Free Trade Agreement with the importing country (e.g., USMCA for imports into the US from Canada or Mexico, or an FTA between EU member states), it may qualify for a preferential duty rate, potentially 0%. To benefit from these agreements, importers must typically provide a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the relevant rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations for eligibility and documentation requirements.