HS 321590 Other
Quick Answer: Inks and other printing or writing preparations imported under HS 321590 enter the UK at rates up to 6.00%, the EU at rates up to 6.50%, and the US at rates up to 15%. This residual classification applies to inks and other preparations for printing or writing that are not specifically covered by preceding headings within Chapter 32. Significant trade considerations include varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates in the US, with some countries benefiting from duty-free entry. Importers and customs brokers should consult detailed tariff schedules, such as those aggregated by CustomTariffs, to determine the precise duty applicable based on origin and specific product characteristics.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215902000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3215907020 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3215907090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3215900000 | — | — | — |
| 3215907000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215900000 | — | — | — |
| 3215902000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3215907000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3215907020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3215907030 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3215901000 | 3.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 321590 | — | — | — |
| 3215905000 | 1.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 3215.90?
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 321590 cover?
This subheading covers printing inks and other inks not specified or included elsewhere in Heading 3215. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses a broad range of inks used for various printing processes, including those for flexographic, gravure, offset, and screen printing, as well as inks for writing or drawing instruments if not specifically classified under other headings. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this residual nature, capturing inks that do not fit into more specific subheadings within 3215, such as those for newspapers or writing.
What falls outside HS 321590?
The following products are excluded from HS 321590: printing inks specifically designed for newspapers (classified under 321510), inks for writing or drawing instruments if they are presented as such and not as bulk printing ink (often classified under 321590 if they are not specifically covered elsewhere, but can also fall under 9609 for pens), and pigments, whether or not in powder form, that are not prepared as inks. Also excluded are colorants and preparations based on colorants in forms such as dispersions or pastes, which may be classified under other chapters depending on their specific composition and intended use, particularly Chapter 32's other headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 321590?
A common error is misclassifying specialty inks that have specific applications or compositions. For instance, inks containing precious metals or specific chemical compounds might warrant classification under different headings if their primary characteristic is not that of a general printing ink. Furthermore, confusion can arise with color preparations that are not yet formulated into a usable ink. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 3, the classification should be based on the most specific heading and the essential character of the product, which can lead to misclassification if the "other" nature of 321590 is not carefully considered against more specific provisions.
How should importers classify products under HS 321590?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 321590 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition, intended use, and presentation. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 3215 and the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They should verify that the ink is not specifically covered by a more precise subheading within 3215 or another chapter. If the ink is a general-purpose printing ink not for newspapers and not otherwise specified, then 321590 is likely appropriate. A review of product data sheets and supplier declarations is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 321590?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of general-purpose offset printing ink, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $5,000 USD = $250.00. This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 321590.9000, which is the most specific residual category for printing inks in the US.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 321590?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 321590, 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 EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with origin rules.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 321590, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 321590, covering 'Other printing ink', has varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates across different trade blocs. For instance, the U.S. generally applies a 6.5% ad valorem duty. The EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff may show different rates, often around 3.5% or 6.0% ad valorem, depending on specific product details and origin. Preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements (indicated by codes like 'A', 'AU', 'CL', 'KR', 'SG'), the duty may be Free (0.00%). Importers must consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements.
How is HS code 321590 classified, and what distinguishes it from other printing ink classifications?
HS code 321590 is a residual category for printing inks not specifically classified under other subheadings within Chapter 32 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes inks for specialized printing processes, inks not meeting the criteria for specific types like lithographic or letterpress inks (e.g., 321510), or inks with unique formulations or applications not covered elsewhere. Classification relies on the ink's intended use, physical properties (viscosity, color, binder type), and whether it fits the descriptions of more specific HS codes. If an ink is primarily intended for printing and does not fall into a more precise category, it will be classified under 321590.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 321590?
For imports under HS code 321590, standard customs documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the printing ink; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific ink formulation, additional documentation might be necessary. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous components, or specific import permits if the ink contains regulated substances. Importers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of requirements.
How is the import duty for HS 321590 calculated, using a practical example?
The import duty for HS code 321590 is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods (ad valorem duty). For example, if the MFN duty rate for printing ink classified under 321590 is 6.5% ad valorem, and an importer declares goods valued at $10,000 USD, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD × 6.5% = $650 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or volume, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to confirm the exact duty calculation method and rate applicable in the importing country's tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer reduced or free duty rates for HS code 321590?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty treatment for goods classified under HS 321590. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Mexico (MX), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and various others under its Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The EU has its network of association and free trade agreements with numerous countries. The UK also maintains its own set of preferential trade agreements post-Brexit. To benefit from these, goods must meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement, and a valid Certificate of Origin is usually required.