HS 481720 Letter cards, plain postcards and correspondence cards

Quick Answer: Letter cards, plain postcards, and correspondence cards imported under HS 481720 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification covers stationery items designed for written communication, such as folded letter cards, unprinted postcards, and blank correspondence cards. Importers should note that while the UK and EU offer duty-free entry, the US has multiple tariff lines with varying rates, including a 40% and 33% ad valorem duty for specific types not covered by the general "Free" classification. According to CustomTariffs data, careful review of the specific product characteristics against the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule is crucial for accurate duty assessment.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
4817200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
4817200000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
481720 — — —
4817202000 Free — ["kg"]
4817204000 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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 481720 cover?

This subheading covers letter cards, plain postcards, and correspondence cards, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are typically single sheets of paper or paperboard, folded or unfolded, designed for written correspondence. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that items like folded greeting cards without printing, or blank note cards intended for personal messages, fall under this classification, provided they are not further processed or decorated beyond simple printing. The key is their primary function as a medium for written communication.

What falls outside HS 481720?

The following products are excluded from HS 481720: pre-printed greeting cards with elaborate designs or messages, business cards, invitations, and stationery sets that include envelopes or other accessories. Items such as blank paper for printing, paperboard cut to size for crafting, or decorative paper sheets are also classified elsewhere, typically under headings for paper or paperboard, not finished correspondence items. For example, a blank sheet of A4 paper for a printer would not be classified here, nor would a blank envelope.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 481720?

A common error is misclassifying printed cards that are not primarily intended for correspondence. For instance, promotional flyers, event tickets, or small advertising leaflets, even if on cardstock, are generally not considered correspondence cards. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If a product has multiple potential classifications, GRI 3 often applies, but for 481720, the intended use as a plain medium for written communication is paramount.

How should importers classify products under HS 481720?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 481720 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should verify that the item is a letter card, plain postcard, or correspondence card, meaning it is essentially blank or has minimal, non-decorative printing. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial to ensure accurate classification before shipment.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 481720?

A shipment of 1,000 plain white correspondence cards, each weighing approximately 10 grams (totaling 10 kg), declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value ($200 USD × 5.0% = $10.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 4817.20.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 481720?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 481720, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, 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.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 481730 HS 481710 HS 482040 HS 482020 HS 482010 HS 481920

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 481720 (Letter cards, plain postcards and correspondence cards)?

The import duty rates for HS code 481720 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is 2.7% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of Free for most origins. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment, as preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may further reduce or eliminate these duties.

What specific criteria define 'letter cards, plain postcards, and correspondence cards' under HS code 481720?

HS code 481720 covers stationery items made of paper or paperboard, intended for correspondence. 'Letter cards' are typically folded sheets that, when folded, form an envelope without adhesive. 'Plain postcards' are single cards, usually with a divided back for address and message, and often with a space for a stamp, that are not printed with designs or messages beyond essential postal information. 'Correspondence cards' are similar to postcards but may be smaller or designed for more personal messages, and are also plain, meaning they lack pre-printed illustrations or extensive text. The key is that they are primarily for written communication and are not pre-printed with designs, advertisements, or significant content. Items with significant printing or illustrations would likely fall under other headings, such as Chapter 49 for printed matter.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 481720?

Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 481720. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under FTAs. Customs authorities may also request samples or further information to verify classification and ensure compliance with any specific national regulations concerning paper products.

How is the import duty calculated for HS 481720, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS code 481720 is typically based on an ad valorem rate, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of correspondence cards from a country with a 5% ad valorem duty rate has a customs value of $10,000, the import duty would be calculated as: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty = $10,000 × 5% = $500. Some countries might also have specific excise duties or taxes applied in addition to the customs duty. Always verify the exact duty rate and the basis for valuation (e.g., CIF value) with the importing country's customs authority.

Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 481720?

Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing duties to Free, for goods classified under HS 481720. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which generally offers duty-free treatment for goods originating in member countries and meeting rules of origin. The EU has numerous Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and Association Agreements with countries worldwide that may grant preferential access. Similarly, the UK has a network of retained EU agreements and new bilateral FTAs. To benefit from these, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a EUR.1 certificate or an origin declaration on the invoice.