HS 961210 Ribbons

Quick Answer: Ribbons imported under HS 961210 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying significantly, including a 78.5% ad valorem rate for certain types. This HS code encompasses inked or otherwise prepared ribbons for typewriters, calculating machines, or similar machines, as well as inked or similarly prepared ribbons for stamping or marking purposes. Importers should be aware of the substantial duty rate disparities across major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected costs. Exporters and customs brokers must verify the specific subheadings and applicable rates for each destination country.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9612100000 — — —
9612101000 0.00 % — —
9612101010 0.00 % — —
9612101090 0.00 % — —
9612102000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9612100000 — — —
9612101000 2.70 % — —
9612101010 2.70 % — —
9612101090 2.70 % — —
9612102000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9612101010 — — ["doz.","kg"]
9612101020 — — ["doz.","kg"]
9612109030 — — ["doz.","kg"]
961210 — — —
96121010 Free — —

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 9612.10?

Imports of Ribbons 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)

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?

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What products does HS 961210 cover?

This subheading covers inked or otherwise prepared ribbons, whether or not on spools or in cartridges, for typewriters, printing machines, or other similar machines. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes ribbons designed for the mechanical transfer of ink onto a surface. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses a wide range of inked ribbons, excluding those for specific electronic printing devices not covered by the heading's scope.

What falls outside HS 961210?

The following products are excluded from HS 961210: ink pads (classified under HS 3923 or 3926 depending on material), carbon paper (classified under HS 4816), and ribbons for thermal printers or inkjet printers, which are typically considered parts or accessories of the printing machines themselves and are classified accordingly. Uninked or unprepared ribbons, such as those used for sewing or decorative purposes, are also excluded and would fall under different headings based on their material and intended use.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 961210?

A common error is misclassifying ribbons intended for electronic printers, such as inkjet cartridges or toner ribbons for laser printers, under this heading. These items are generally considered parts or accessories of the printing apparatus and are classified under headings related to those machines, not as generic inked ribbons. Following General Rule of Interpretation (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 to avoid such errors.

How should importers classify products under HS 961210?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 961210 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and physical characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must verify if the ribbon is inked or prepared for ink transfer and if it is designed for typewriters, printing machines, or similar mechanical devices. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is essential for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 961210?

A shipment of 100 typewriter ribbons, each weighing approximately 15 grams, declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50.00 USD × 0.03 = $1.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 961210.10.00.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 961210?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 961210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for certain developing countries. To claim preferential treatment under USMCA, a valid origin declaration is required, while for EU preferences, an EUR.1 movement certificate or a self-certified origin declaration may be necessary depending on the specific agreement and country of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 961220 HS 960810 HS 960610 HS 960910 HS 621010 HS 441210

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 961210 (Ribbons)?

Import duty rates for HS code 961210, which covers 'Typewriter and similar ribbons, inked or otherwise prepared for giving an impression, whether or not on spools or in cartridges; ink pads, whether or not un-inked', vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 2.70% ad valorem duty rate under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often has a 0.00% duty rate for ribbons originating from certain countries, but specific rates can apply. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often free for goods from certain preferential trade partners. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.

How is the import duty for HS code 961210 calculated? Can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS code 961210 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For an ad valorem duty, the calculation is: Duty = (Customs Value of Goods) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if a shipment of ink ribbons valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the import duty would be $10,000 × 0.0270 = $270.00. Some specific duties might be calculated per meter or per kilogram, requiring precise quantity measurements.

What are the classification criteria for ribbons under HS code 961210?

HS code 961210 covers 'Typewriter and similar ribbons, inked or otherwise prepared for giving an impression, whether or not on spools or in cartridges'. Key classification criteria include: 1. Functionality: The ribbon must be designed to transfer ink or a similar coloring substance to a surface to create an impression (e.g., for typewriters, printers, calculators). 2. Preparation: It must be 'inked or otherwise prepared' for this purpose. This means it's ready for use or requires minimal preparation. 3. Presentation: It can be supplied on spools or in cartridges. Ink pads, whether inked or un-inked, are also included in this heading. Items not meeting these criteria, such as plain fabric ribbons or un-inked, unprepared ribbon material, would be classified elsewhere.

Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 961210 under trade agreements?

Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS code 961210 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential schemes. For instance, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific FTAs with the EU may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates. Similarly, the United States has FTAs with various countries that could offer preferential treatment. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 961210?

Standard import documentation is generally required for goods classified under HS code 961210. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, value, and origin of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and any preferential claims, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim reduced or zero duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any specific product safety or marking requirements that might apply to inks or cartridges, although these are less common for standard ribbons.