HS 470620 Pulps of fibres derived from recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard
Quick Answer: Pulps of fibres derived from recovered paper or paperboard imported under HS 470620 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers fibrous cellulosic material obtained from waste and scrap paper or paperboard, which has been mechanically or chemically processed to separate the fibers. This material is a key input for the manufacturing of new paper products. Importers and customs brokers should note that while duty rates are currently favorable across these major markets, compliance with any specific import regulations related to recycled materials, such as those concerning contamination or origin, remains essential. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for trade facilitation.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4706200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4706200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4706200000 | Free | — | ["t adw"] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 470620 cover?
This subheading covers pulps of fibres derived from recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database, this includes mechanically or chemically processed materials that have been re-pulped from used paper and cardboard, intended for further manufacturing into new paper products. The key characteristic is the origin from recycled paper or paperboard, distinguishing it from virgin wood pulp.
What falls outside HS 470620?
The following products are excluded from HS 470620: pulps derived from virgin wood or other fibrous vegetable materials (heading 4701 to 4705), and waste and scrap paper or paperboard in their original form before being pulped (heading 4707). For instance, unsorted mixed waste paper intended for recycling but not yet processed into pulp, or shredded paper that has not undergone the pulping process, would be classified under heading 4707. Similarly, paper or paperboard products made from this pulp, such as new paper sheets, are classified in Chapter 48.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 470620?
A common error is misclassifying pulps that are not derived from recovered paper or paperboard. For example, if a pulp is made from virgin wood fibers, it would fall under heading 4702 or 4703, not 4706. Another mistake is confusing the pulp with the waste paper itself; waste paper or paperboard, even if intended for recycling, is classified under heading 4707. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 470620?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 470620 involves verifying that the material is indeed a pulp derived from recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard. Importers and customs brokers must examine product specifications, manufacturing processes, and origin documentation. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing the WCO HS Explanatory Notes will confirm the correct classification. If uncertainty remains, a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 470620?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of de-inked pulp derived from recovered newspapers, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 470620 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $5,000 = $0.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 470620?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 470620, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Under USMCA, goods originating from Canada and Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. For CPTPP, originating goods from countries like Japan and Vietnam can also benefit from preferential rates, often Free, contingent upon submitting the appropriate origin documentation as stipulated by the importing country's customs regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 470620 (Pulps of fibres derived from recovered paper or paperboard)?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 470620 is 0.00%. Many preferential trade agreements also offer duty-free entry. For example, under the USMCA, the rate is Free. Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable to their country of origin and any applicable trade agreements. Consult the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most current information.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 470620?
HS code 470620 covers fibrous pulps derived from recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard. This means the material must originate from recycled paper products and be processed into a pulp form. It is distinct from virgin wood pulp (HS 4701-4705) or other fibrous vegetable materials. The key is the source material (recovered paper/paperboard) and its form (pulp).
How is the import duty for HS code 470620 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 470620 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods). For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 0.00%, the calculation is: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. If, hypothetically, a country had a 3.5% ad valorem duty on this code, and the declared customs value of a shipment was $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.035 = $350. However, for the US, the rate is 0.00%, resulting in $0 duty.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 470620?
Standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For HS code 470620, it is crucial to have documentation that clearly identifies the material as derived from recovered paper or paperboard. This might include a supplier's declaration or certificate of origin specifying the recycled content and source. Customs may request additional information to verify compliance with environmental regulations or specific trade agreement requirements.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 470620?
Many trade agreements provide duty-free or reduced-duty access for goods classified under HS code 470620, reflecting a global emphasis on recycling. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) typically grants Free entry. Other agreements like those with Australia, Chile, or Singapore may also offer preferential rates. Importers should consult the specific terms of relevant Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and the tariff schedule of the importing country to confirm eligibility and any specific rules of origin.