HS 470720 Other paper or paperboard made mainly of bleached chemical pulp, not coloured in the mass
Quick Answer: Paper and paperboard made mainly of bleached chemical pulp, not coloured in the mass, imported under HS 470720 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification covers items such as printing paper, writing paper, and certain types of packaging paper that meet the specified pulp and coloration criteria. Importers should note that while duty rates are currently zero in these major markets, compliance with specific import regulations and potential non-tariff barriers remains essential. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4707200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4707200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4707200020 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 47072000 | Free | — | — |
| 4707200040 | — | — | ["t"] |
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 470720 cover?
This subheading covers waste and scrap of paper or paperboard that is primarily made from bleached chemical pulp. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically excludes paper or paperboard that is colored throughout the mass. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the key characteristics are the origin from bleached chemical pulp and the absence of mass coloration, making it suitable for recycling into new paper products.
What falls outside HS 470720?
The following products are excluded from HS 470720: paper or paperboard made mainly from mechanical pulp (classified under 470730), paper or paperboard that is colored throughout the mass (classified under 470790 if not otherwise specified), and any paper or paperboard waste that has been treated or processed beyond simple collection and sorting. For instance, heavily inked or laminated paperboard, or paper contaminated with significant amounts of plastic or other non-paper materials, would typically fall under different classifications or be considered non-recyclable waste.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 470720?
A common error is misinterpreting "coloured in the mass." This refers to paper where the coloring agent is incorporated into the pulp itself, resulting in a uniform color throughout. Paper that has surface printing or coatings but is otherwise uncolored in the pulp may still fall under 470720. Importers may also incorrectly classify paper made from mixed pulps or mechanical pulp under this subheading, failing to adhere to the specific requirements of General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures or the primary material composition.
How should importers classify products under HS 470720?
The correct procedure for classifying waste paper under HS 470720 involves a thorough examination of the material's composition and characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the paper is derived predominantly from bleached chemical pulp and that it is not colored throughout the mass. Reviewing the supplier's technical data sheets and, if necessary, obtaining laboratory analysis are crucial steps. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, for specific notes and definitions is also essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 470720?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of sorted, uncolored bleached chemical pulp waste paper, declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 470720 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $2,000 USD = $0.00 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and applies to imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 470720?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 470720, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which provides for a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, often Free, for qualifying originating goods from member countries like Vietnam and Japan. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and the importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 470720, specifically for paper or paperboard made mainly of bleached chemical pulp?
For HS code 470720, which covers 'Other paper or paperboard made mainly of bleached chemical pulp, not coloured in the mass', the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally low or free. For instance, the United States applies a 0.00% duty rate. The European Union, under the TARIC system, also lists a 0.00% duty rate. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff similarly indicates a 'Free' duty rate. It is crucial to verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and origin, as preferential agreements can further reduce or eliminate duties.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 470720?
The primary classification criteria for HS code 470720 are: 1. Material Composition: The paper or paperboard must be made 'mainly of bleached chemical pulp'. This means the pulp derived from wood or other fibrous materials through chemical processes, and then bleached to achieve a high degree of whiteness, is the predominant component. 2. Coloration: The product must not be 'coloured in the mass'. This implies that the coloring agents, if any, are not integrated into the pulp itself during manufacturing but might be applied as a surface coating or printing after the paper is formed. 3. Exclusions: This code covers 'Other' paper and paperboard within heading 4707, meaning it excludes specific types of waste paper or paperboard already classified under subheadings 4707.10 (unsorted waste and paper) and 4707.90 (other waste and paper).
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 470720?
While specific requirements can vary by importing country, standard documentation for importing paper products under HS code 470720 generally includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, and total value. 2. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document issued by the carrier. 3. Packing List: Itemizing the contents of each package. 4. Certificate of Origin: May be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. 5. Import Declaration: Filed with customs authorities. 6. Mill Test Certificate (MTC): Often requested by customs to verify the composition and specifications of the paper, particularly confirming it is made mainly of bleached chemical pulp and not colored in the mass. It's advisable to consult the customs authority of the destination country for a definitive list.
How are import duties calculated for HS code 470720, and can you provide an example?
Import duties for HS code 470720 are typically calculated based on an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the declared value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For many countries, the duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem, meaning no duty is levied. However, if a duty were applicable, for example, a hypothetical 5% ad valorem rate, the calculation would be as follows:
Scenario: An importer brings in 10,000 kilograms of paper classified under HS 470720, with a declared customs value of $15,000 USD.
Hypothetical Duty Calculation:
- Duty Rate: 5% ad valorem
- Customs Value: $15,000 USD
- Duty Amount: 5% of $15,000 USD = 0.05 × $15,000 = $750 USD.
In this hypothetical case, the importer would owe $750 USD in duties. It is essential to confirm the exact duty rate and whether it is ad valorem or specific for the relevant import jurisdiction.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 470720?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often leading to duty-free importation, for goods classified under HS code 470720. Examples include:
- United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): Goods originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from preferential treatment when imported into the United States.
- European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP): Developing countries may benefit from reduced or zero duties on their exports to the EU.
- Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA): Between the EU and Canada, potentially offering preferential rates.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Many bilateral FTAs exist globally (e.g., between the UK and various countries post-Brexit, or agreements involving Asian nations).
To claim preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin.