HS 480452 Bleached uniformly throughout the mass and of which more than 95 % by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process
Quick Answer: Uncoated paper and paperboard, in rolls or sheets, other than that of heading 4802, bleached uniformly throughout the mass and of which more than 95% by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process, imported under HS 480452 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 30% ad valorem. This classification typically covers high-quality bleached kraft paper used in applications such as printing, writing, and packaging where brightness and uniformity are essential. Importers should verify specific US tariff rates based on product characteristics and potential trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4804520000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4804520000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48045200 | Free | — | — |
| 4804520010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 4804520020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 4804520030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 4804520040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 480452 cover?
This subheading covers kraft paper and paperboard, uncoated, in rolls or sheets, other than that of heading 4802 or 4803. Specifically, it applies to bleached uniformly throughout the mass, where more than 95% by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process. This definition aligns with the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and is reflected in national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, ensuring consistent classification of high-quality, chemically processed bleached paperboard.
What falls outside HS 480452?
The following products are excluded from HS 480452: paper and paperboard that are not bleached uniformly throughout the mass, or where the wood fibre content obtained by chemical process is less than 95% of the total fibre content. Also excluded are papers of heading 4802 (e.g., writing, printing, and other paper and paperboard, machine-made, in rolls or sheets, where uniformity of thickness is essential) and papers of heading 4803 (e.g., toilet paper and similar paper, household or facial tissue stock, and paper-making materials). Products with significant mechanical pulp content or those that are coated or dyed would also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 480452?
A common error is misinterpreting the "bleached uniformly throughout the mass" criterion or the "more than 95% by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify paperboard with a lower percentage of chemically derived wood fibres or those that are not uniformly bleached. This can occur if the fibre composition is not accurately determined or if the bleaching process is inconsistent. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 6 of the Harmonized System is crucial for accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 480452?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 480452 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the paper or paperboard is bleached uniformly throughout the mass and that at least 95% of its fibre content is derived from chemical wood pulping. Reviewing the manufacturer's technical data sheets, mill certificates, and laboratory analysis reports is essential. Cross-referencing these details with the official descriptions in the relevant tariff schedule, such as the UK Trade Tariff, will confirm the correct classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 480452?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of bleached kraft paperboard, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500 USD). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 480452. The specific rate can vary based on country of origin and trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 480452?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 480452, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods can benefit from a preferential rate of Free. Top origin countries that benefit from such agreements for this product category often include Canada and Mexico. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the value and specific circumstances outlined in the agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 480452 (Kraft paper and paperboard, unbleached, etc., bleached uniformly, >95% chemical wood pulp)?
The duty rates for HS code 480452 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also often 0.00% for many trading partners, though specific rates can apply. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for definitive rates, as preferential agreements or specific trade policies can influence these percentages.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 480452?
HS code 480452 specifically covers 'Kraft paper and paperboard, unbleached, and kraft paper and paperboard, colored throughout the mass by adding dyes or pigments during the manufacturing process, of which more than 95 % by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process, bleached uniformly throughout the mass and of which more than 95 % by weight of the total fibre content consists of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process'. The critical elements for classification are: 1) It must be kraft paper or paperboard. 2) It must be bleached uniformly throughout the mass. 3) More than 95% of the total fibre content must consist of wood fibres obtained by a chemical process (i.e., chemical pulp). Importers must ensure their product meets all these technical specifications.
How is the import duty for HS code 480452 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods (ad valorem) or based on weight/quantity. For HS code 480452, the duty is often ad valorem. For instance, if a shipment of paper classified under 480452 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 0.00% (as seen in the US MFN rate), the duty payable would be $10,000 × 0.00% = $0.00. If, hypothetically, a country applied a 3.5% ad valorem duty, the calculation would be $10,000 × 3.5% = $350.00. Always verify if the duty is ad valorem, specific (per unit), or a combination, and use the correct customs value or quantity for the calculation.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 480452?
Standard import documentation for HS code 480452 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to substantiate the classification, importers may need to provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or technical datasheet from the manufacturer. This document should detail the fiber content (confirming >95% chemical wood pulp) and the bleaching process. Depending on the destination country and any applicable trade agreements, certificates of origin might also be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. Customs brokers should be consulted for country-specific requirements.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 480452?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 480452. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for duty-free entry into the US, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries, which can reduce or eliminate duties on products like those classified under 480452. To benefit from these agreements, importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the specific origin criteria stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Always verify the origin of the goods and the terms of applicable FTAs.