HS 961220 Ink-pads
Quick Answer: Ink-pads imported under HS 961220 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 3.5% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers pads designed to hold ink for stamping purposes, typically used with rubber stamps. Importers should be aware that the US offers preferential duty rates for goods originating from several specific countries, potentially reducing the duty to 0% or even imposing a higher rate of 40% for certain origins. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying rates and preferential agreements is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9612200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9612200000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9612200000 | 3.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
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 9612.20?
Imports of Ink-pads 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, 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 961220 cover?
This subheading covers ink-pads, which are typically made of porous material, such as felt, cloth, or rubber, impregnated with ink and designed for use with rubber stamps or other printing devices. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, ink-pads are distinct from printing ink itself. In the United States, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under heading 9612.20 specifically enumerates "Ink-pads." The European Union's TARIC system also aligns with this definition, classifying these items under the same HS code.
What falls outside HS 961220?
The following products are excluded from HS 961220: printing ink in liquid or paste form (which falls under HS 3215), self-inking stamps that contain an integrated ink reservoir, and stationery items like ballpoint pens or markers that have their own ink supply. Furthermore, blank or un-inked pads intended for absorption or other purposes not related to ink transfer for printing are not classified here. For instance, absorbent pads for medical use or cleaning cloths are classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 961220?
A common error is the misclassification of printing ink itself as an ink-pad, or vice versa. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify self-inking stamps under this subheading, failing to recognize that the ink is integrated into the stamp mechanism rather than being a separate, refillable pad. The key distinction lies in the product's primary function and construction.
How should importers classify products under HS 961220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 961220 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database. Verify that the product is indeed an ink-pad, meaning a separate pad impregnated with ink for use with stamps, and not liquid ink or a self-contained stamping device. Reviewing the WCO Explanatory Notes for heading 9612 provides further clarity.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 961220?
A shipment of 100 "Standard Blue Ink Pads" weighing a total of 5 kilograms 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 7.0% 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 HS code 9612.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 961220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 961220, 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 jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 961220 (Ink-pads)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 961220, covering ink-pads, is 3.5% ad valorem. This means the duty is calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if an importer declares ink-pads valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 3.5% = $350. This rate is generally applied by countries that do not have a specific preferential trade agreement with the exporting country. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most current rates.
Are there preferential duty rates available for ink-pads (HS 961220) under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for ink-pads (HS 961220) under various trade agreements. For instance, under certain agreements, countries may offer duty-free entry (0.00%). Examples of countries or blocs that might benefit from preferential rates, often including free trade, are listed as A+, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG. To claim these preferential rates, importers must provide proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin, and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations for eligibility and requirements.
What are the classification criteria for ink-pads under HS code 961220?
HS code 961220 specifically covers 'Ink-pads'. This classification applies to pads designed to hold ink for stamping purposes. The key criterion is the function of the item: it must be a pad intended to be impregnated with ink for use in printing or marking devices. Items that are not specifically designed as ink-holding pads, such as general sponges or absorbent materials not intended for this purpose, would likely be classified elsewhere. The WCO (World Customs Organization) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
What documentation is typically required for importing ink-pads (HS 961220)?
Standard documentation for importing ink-pads (HS 961220) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. If preferential duty rates are claimed, a Certificate of Origin or other acceptable proof of origin demonstrating that the goods qualify for the preferential treatment under a specific trade agreement is mandatory. Depending on the importing country's regulations, additional documents such as safety data sheets (SDS) for the ink components might be required, especially if the ink contains hazardous materials. Always verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
How is the duty calculated for ink-pads (HS 961220) if the rate is 2.70% ad valorem?
If the applicable duty rate for ink-pads (HS 961220) is 2.70% ad valorem, the duty is calculated based on the customs value of the imported goods. The customs value is typically the transaction value, which includes the price paid or payable for the goods, plus certain costs like freight and insurance, up to the port of importation. The formula is: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. For example, if a shipment of ink-pads has a customs value of $5,000, and the duty rate is 2.70%, the duty payable would be $5,000 \times 2.70% = $135. This calculation applies to the value of the goods themselves, excluding any taxes like VAT or GST that may be levied separately.