HS 490191 Other
Quick Answer: Printed books, newspapers, journals, and periodicals imported under HS 490191 enter the UK and EU duty-free, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This specific classification, "Other," applies to printed books, brochures, leaflets, and similar printed matter not specifically covered by other subheadings within Chapter 49, provided they are not illustrated and do not consist entirely of advertising. Importers should verify specific product descriptions against the full Chapter 49 notes to ensure correct classification. According to CustomTariffs data, these duty rates are generally consistent across major trading blocs, simplifying trade for this category.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4901910000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4901910000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4901910020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 49019100 | Free | — | — |
| 4901910040 | — | — | ["No."] |
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 490191 cover?
This subheading covers printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheets, which are not in single sheets. Specifically, HS 490191 pertains to "Other" printed books, brochures, leaflets, and similar printed matter that do not fall under the more specific categories within heading 4901, such as those that are illustrated to a significant extent. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes clarify that this category encompasses a wide array of printed materials not otherwise specified, provided they are not single sheets and are primarily textual or informational in nature.
What falls outside HS 490191?
The following products are excluded from HS 490191: printed matter that consists entirely or predominantly of illustrations (classified under HS 490110 if in single sheets or HS 490199 if bound), newspapers and periodicals (Chapter 49, heading 4902), music in manuscript or published form (Chapter 49, heading 4904), maps and charts (Chapter 49, heading 4905), and printed advertising material (Chapter 49, heading 4901). Also excluded are items like stationery, blank books, and other printed matter not intended for reading or information dissemination, such as greeting cards or calendars.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 490191?
A common error is misinterpreting the "illustrated to a significant extent" exclusion. If a book contains more than 50% illustrations, it would likely be classified elsewhere. Another mistake involves confusing this subheading with printed advertising material, which has its own specific classification. Importers may also incorrectly classify single sheets of printed matter under this subheading, when they should be classified under HS 490110, as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 490191?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 490191 involves a thorough examination of the printed matter's content and format. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the item is a book, brochure, leaflet, or similar printed matter, and crucially, if it is not in single sheets and not predominantly illustrated. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, and reviewing the relevant Explanatory Notes from the WCO is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 490191?
A shipment of 1,000 paperback novels, each with a declared customs value of $2.50 USD, totaling $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the total declared value: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 490191.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 490191?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 490191, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 490191?
For HS code 490191, which covers 'Other' printed books, newspapers, journals, and periodicals, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also typically Free. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty rate of Free for this classification. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and any applicable trade agreements.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 490191 if a duty were applicable?
While the duty rates for HS 490191 are generally Free in major markets like the US, EU, and UK, if a duty were applicable (e.g., under specific trade agreements or for certain countries not receiving preferential treatment), it would typically be calculated on an ad valorem basis. For instance, if a hypothetical duty rate of 3.5% applied to a shipment of printed books valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. However, for 490191, this scenario is rare due to the prevailing Free rates.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 490191?
For HS code 490191, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice detailing the value and description of the printed books, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and destination country, certificates of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. It is also crucial to ensure that the printed materials comply with any national regulations regarding content, such as prohibitions on obscene or seditious material.
Which trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 490191?
Given that HS code 490191 generally carries a Free duty rate under the MFN status in many countries, the impact of trade agreements might be less about reducing an existing duty and more about ensuring continued duty-free access or fulfilling specific origin requirements. For example, goods originating from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the importing nation (like the USMCA for the US, or various EU FTAs) would continue to benefit from duty-free entry. Importers should always consult the specific provisions of relevant trade agreements to confirm eligibility and any associated procedural requirements.
What are the classification criteria for 'Other' printed books, newspapers, journals, and periodicals under HS code 490191?
HS code 490191 falls under Chapter 49 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Printed books, newspapers, pictures and other products of the printing industry; manuscripts, typescripts and plans'. Specifically, 4901 covers 'Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheets'. Subheading 4901.91 is designated for 'Other' printed books, newspapers, journals, and periodicals that do not fall under more specific subheadings within 4901 (e.g., those illustrated to a significant degree or in the form of a dictionary, encyclopedia, etc.). Key classification criteria include being printed, not constituting a periodical (which has its own specific subheadings if regularly published), and not fitting into other more detailed categories within 4901. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing between different types of printed matter.