HS 481141 Gummed or adhesive paper and paperboard
Quick Answer: Gummed or adhesive paper and paperboard imported under HS 481141 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free (MFN) for certain types, with a 40% rate for others. This classification covers paper and paperboard that has been coated or impregnated with adhesive, intended for use as labels, tapes, or other self-adhesive applications. Importers should carefully review specific product characteristics against the detailed tariff subheadings in each jurisdiction to determine the precise duty rate. According to CustomTariffs data, while many entries are duty-free, variations exist, particularly in the US, necessitating precise classification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4811410000 | — | — | — |
| 4811412000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 4811419000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4811410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 4811412000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 4811419000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 481141 | — | — | — |
| 4811411000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 4811412100 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 4811413000 | Free | — | ["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 481141 cover?
This subheading covers gummed or adhesive paper and paperboard, in rolls or rectangular (including square) sheets, of any size, coated, impregnated or covered with adhesive. This classification is based on the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Section X, Chapter 48, Heading 4811. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes products like self-adhesive labels, masking tape, and other papers with a readily activated adhesive layer, provided they meet the criteria of being in rolls or sheets.
What falls outside HS 481141?
The following products are excluded from HS 481141: paper or paperboard that is merely creased or embossed, or that has a coating or impregnation that is not adhesive, or that is coated with a non-adhesive material. For instance, plain kraft paper, waxed paper, or paper coated with plastic for waterproofing would not fall under this subheading. Similarly, paper products with a permanent adhesive applied that requires a release liner, such as certain types of wallpaper or permanent labels, may be classified elsewhere depending on the specific nature of the adhesive and its application.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 481141?
A common error is misclassifying products based on their end-use rather than their inherent characteristics as defined by the HS. For example, a roll of paper with an adhesive coating intended for use as a label might be mistakenly classified under a heading for printed labels if the printing is considered the primary characteristic, or under a heading for tapes if the adhesive is more akin to that of a tape. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly 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 481141?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 481141 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and construction. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the paper or paperboard is indeed coated, impregnated, or covered with an adhesive that is ready for use or easily activated. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Heading 4811 is essential. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 481141?
A roll of 100 square meters of self-adhesive label paper, declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 7.0% × $50.00 = $3.50. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 4811.41.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 481141?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 481141, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. The top originating countries that benefit from this preferential rate are typically Canada and Mexico. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement, as outlined in the USMCA text, is generally required. Other agreements may also offer preferential rates depending on the specific importing country and the origin of the goods.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 481141 (gummed or adhesive paper and paperboard)?
The import duty rates for HS code 481141 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 3.4% ad valorem. Under the EU's TARIC system, the rate is often 2.7% ad valorem. The UK's Trade Tariff also lists a duty rate, typically around 4.7% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate, as preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may apply, potentially reducing or eliminating duties. For instance, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the US or EU might benefit from a 0% duty rate if they meet the rules of origin.
How is the duty for HS code 481141 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 481141 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 gummed paper valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 3.4%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 (value) × 0.034 (duty rate) = $340. If a specific duty (e.g., per kilogram or per square meter) is also applicable, the importer would pay the higher of the two duties, or sometimes a combination, depending on the specific tariff provision. Always verify the exact calculation method in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 481141?
To be classified under HS code 481141, the paper or paperboard must be coated or impregnated with adhesive. This adhesive can be applied to one or both sides. The key distinction is that the adhesive is present and functional, intended for sticking the paper or paperboard to a surface. This includes products like gummed tape, labels, and other adhesive-backed papers. Products that are merely coated with a release agent or are not intended for adhesive purposes would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 481141?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 481141, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical data sheets if requested by customs authorities to verify the adhesive properties and composition of the paper or paperboard. Compliance with any specific labeling requirements for the destination country is also essential.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 481141?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 481141. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might offer preferential rates for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or those in the European Economic Area (EEA) often provide duty-free access. The UK also has numerous FTAs post-Brexit, such as with the EU, Australia, and Japan, which could affect duty rates. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin outlined in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation.