HS 950440 Playing cards

Quick Answer: Playing cards imported under HS 950440 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at 10¢ per pack plus 20% ad valorem (MFN rate), with some items also being free. This code specifically covers all types of playing cards, including those for games of chance or skill. Importers should be aware of the specific pack-based duty in the US, which can significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying duty structures across major markets for this category.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9504400000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9504400000 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9504400000 Free — ["pack"]

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 950440 cover?

This subheading covers "Playing cards," as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes standard decks of playing cards used for games, such as those for poker, bridge, or solitaire, typically printed on paper or paperboard. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification is specific to cards designed for play, regardless of their material composition as long as they are primarily for this purpose.

What falls outside HS 950440?

The following products are excluded from HS 950440: trading cards (like Pokémon or Magic: The Gathering), which are often classified under HS 9504.90 as other articles for indoor recreational games, and educational or instructional cards, which may fall under Chapter 49 for printed matter. Also excluded are blank cards intended for printing by the user or cards that are part of a larger game set not solely consisting of playing cards.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 950440?

A common error is misclassifying collectible or trading cards under HS 950440. These cards, while resembling playing cards, are often valued for their collectibility rather than their use in traditional card games. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are put up in sets for retail sale, they are classified according to the component which gives them their essential character. Trading cards, due to their unique artwork and collectibility, often possess a different essential character than standard playing cards.

How should importers classify products under HS 950440?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 950440 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and characteristics. Importers and customs brokers should verify that the product is specifically designed and marketed as a deck of cards for playing traditional games. 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 for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 950440?

A standard deck of 52 playing cards, weighing approximately 0.1 kg and declared at a customs value of $5.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.25. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5.00 USD × 0.05 = $0.25). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 950440.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 950440?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 950440, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for eligible goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the duty rate can also be Free. Documentation required to claim preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA and a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the importing country's specific requirements.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 950420 HS 950490 HS 950430 HS 950640 HS 950840 HS 950590

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 950440 (Playing cards)?

Import duty rates for HS code 950440 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.70% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may have different rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also specifies its own duties. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and current rates. Some trade agreements may offer preferential duty rates, potentially reducing or eliminating these duties.

How is the duty calculated for playing cards imported into the U.S. under HS 950440?

In the U.S., the duty for playing cards under HTS 950440 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and you import playing cards with a declared customs value of $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.0270 = $270.00. It is crucial to ensure the declared value is accurate and includes all elements as defined by customs regulations (e.g., cost, insurance, freight).

Are there specific classification criteria for playing cards under HS 950440 that importers should be aware of?

Yes, HS code 950440 specifically covers 'Playing cards'. This classification generally applies to cards designed for games, including standard decks, tarot cards, and other specialized playing card sets. Items that are not primarily intended for playing games, such as educational flashcards or collectible trading cards not used in gameplay, may fall under different HS codes. Importers must ensure their product aligns with the description and intent of 'playing cards' to avoid misclassification.

What documentation is typically required for importing playing cards (HS 950440)?

Standard import documentation is generally required for playing cards, including HS code 950440. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the cards (e.g., if they feature copyrighted material or specific imagery), additional documentation such as certificates of origin, import licenses, or declarations regarding intellectual property rights may be necessary. It's advisable to check with the customs authority of the destination country for any specific requirements.

Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for playing cards (HS 950440)?

Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For example, if playing cards are manufactured in a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., Canada or Mexico for the US under USMCA, or various countries with FTAs with the EU), they may qualify for preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry or reduced tariffs. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of eligibility as stipulated by the specific trade agreement.