HS 960820 Felt-tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers
Quick Answer: Felt-tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers imported under HS 960820 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.70%, and the US at 4% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers writing and marking instruments that utilize a porous tip, such as felt-tip pens and markers, which deliver ink through capillary action. Importers should be aware that the US offers duty-free entry for goods from several specific trade partners, as detailed in the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, providing a valuable resource for navigating these varying international duty structures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9608200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9608200000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9608200000 | 4% | Free (18 programs) | ["gross"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 9608.20?
Imports of Felt-tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 960820 cover?
This subheading covers felt-tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes writing and drawing instruments where the ink or coloring agent is applied through a porous tip, such as fiber or felt. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this definition, encompassing items like permanent markers, whiteboard markers, and highlighters with porous tips, provided they are designed for writing or marking. The key characteristic is the porous applicator that draws ink via capillary action.
What falls outside HS 960820?
The following products are excluded from HS 960820: pens with ballpoints (classified under 9608.30), fountain pens (9608.30), stylographic pens (9608.30), and mechanical pencils (9608.40). Also excluded are markers that do not utilize a porous tip for ink delivery, such as those with a brush or rollerball applicator. Items intended for industrial marking, like stencils or rubber stamps, are also classified elsewhere, typically under Chapter 39 or Chapter 40 depending on the material. The defining feature for exclusion is the absence of a porous tip for ink transfer.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 960820?
A common error is misclassifying products that resemble markers but function differently. For instance, industrial marking crayons or chalks, which do not use an ink reservoir and porous tip, are not covered by 9608.20. Another mistake involves confusing refillable porous-tipped pens with disposable ones; both generally fall under this subheading if they meet the porous-tip criteria. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), if goods are presented in sets, classification is based on the component that gives them their essential character, which for a marker set would be the markers themselves.
How should importers classify products under HS 960820?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 960820 involves a detailed examination of the product's construction and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the writing instrument utilizes a porous tip (e.g., felt or fiber) for ink application. They should consult the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. Confirming that the product is designed for writing or marking, rather than other industrial applications, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 960820?
A shipment of 1,000 "Sharpie" brand permanent markers, each weighing approximately 20 grams and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 9608.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 960820?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 960820, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty-free rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin or CPTPP Certificate of Origin) is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 960820 (felt-tipped pens and markers)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 960820 generally falls within a range, for example, the US rate is 0.3% ad valorem, while the EU rate can be 2.0% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact rate. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the rate is 0.3% ad valorem. In the EU, the TARIC system indicates a rate of 2.0% ad valorem. Always verify the most current rates as they can change.
How is the import duty for HS 960820 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 960820 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of markers valued at $10,000 is imported into the US, and the MFN duty rate is 0.3%, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.003 = $30. If the importing country uses a specific duty rate (per unit), the calculation would be rate per unit × number of units. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs authority.
What are the classification criteria for felt-tipped and porous-tipped pens and markers under HS code 960820?
HS code 960820 covers pens and markers where the ink or coloring agent is applied through a porous tip, typically made of felt or similar materials. This includes items like permanent markers, whiteboard markers, highlighters, and felt-tip pens used for drawing or writing. The key distinguishing feature is the porous tip that absorbs and dispenses the ink. Items with ballpoints (9608.30) or nibs (9608.30) are classified elsewhere. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 960820, and how can importers benefit?
Many trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS 960820. Examples include agreements between the US and countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), and various Latin American nations (CL, CO, PE). The EU also has preferential rates with many partners. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin specified in the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin or an origin declaration on the invoice. For instance, goods originating from Australia under the US-Australia FTA may be eligible for free entry.
What documentation is typically required for importing felt-tipped pens and markers (HS 960820) into the United States?
For importing HS code 960820 into the United States, standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. A detailed description of the goods, including type of marker/pen and tip material, is essential for accurate classification. Depending on the origin and any claimed preferential treatment under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a valid Certificate of Origin or an exporter's declaration of origin may be required. Importers should also be aware of any potential product safety regulations or labeling requirements that might apply to writing instruments.