What is the HS code for envelopes?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-4 · Heading
4817 — Envelopes, letter cards, plain postcards and correspondence cards, of paper, paperboard; boxes, pouches, wallets and writing compendiums, of paper or paperboard containing assortment of paper stationery
Chapter 48: Paper and paperboard
Plain-language overview
Use HS-4 4817 when importing items like envelopes or plain postcards made of paper or paperboard. For instance, if you're shipping a bulk order of envelopes for a stationery business, this is the code you need.
When deciding between the HS-6 lines, note that 481710 specifically covers envelopes, while 481720 is for letter cards and postcards. If your shipment includes a mix of these items, you'll need to classify them correctly to avoid customs issues.
If your shipment consists of boxes, pouches, or wallets containing assorted stationery, you'll use 481730. This line is distinct as it includes products that combine various paper items, unlike the other two lines that focus on single product types.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.
HS-4 4817 · envelopes import code · letter cards HS code · postcards classification · stationery assortment import · paperboard envelopes · customs codes for stationery · paper products HS classification · importing envelopes · HS-6 481710 · HS-6 481720 · HS-6 481730
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Bulk envelopes for mailing services
- Plain postcards for promotional use
- Assorted stationery sets for retail
- Wallets containing notepads and writing instruments
- Pouches designed for holding correspondence cards
- Boxes of assorted letter cards for personal use
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify plain postcards for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
What are the requirements for importing stationery?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is there a specific code for writing compendiums?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I determine the right HS-6 line for my shipment?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What documents do I need for importing paper products?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
how to classify envelopes for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
importing assorted stationery items
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
difference between HS-6 481710 and 481720
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
requirements for importing paper and paperboard products
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
shipping letter cards and postcards internationally
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
best practices for importing paper stationery
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
customs clearance for envelopes and postcards
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
what to include in a stationery import declaration
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What items fall under HS-4 4817?
- HS-4 4817 includes envelopes, letter cards, plain postcards, and various stationery assortments made of paper or paperboard.
- How do I know which HS-6 line to use?
- Choose **481710** for envelopes, **481720** for letter cards and postcards, and **481730** for boxes or wallets containing assorted stationery.
- Are there specific packaging requirements for these items?
- Yes, ensure that your packaging clearly identifies the contents, especially if shipping mixed items under **481730**.
- What documentation is needed for importing paper products?
- You will typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and potentially a certificate of origin, depending on your destination country.
- Can I combine different types of paper products in one shipment?
- Yes, but you must classify each item correctly according to its specific HS-6 line to avoid customs complications.
- What are the common customs duties for HS-4 4817?
- Duties vary by country, so check with your local customs authority for specific rates applicable to your shipment.
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