What HS code for plain postcards?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
481720
Paper and paperboard; letter cards, plain postcards and correspondence cards
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-6 481720 when importing or exporting plain postcards and letter cards made from paper or paperboard. For example, if you're shipping a box of 1,000 plain postcards for a marketing campaign, this is the correct code.
This code specifically covers letter cards and plain postcards, distinguishing them from other paper products like envelopes or stationery items that fall under different codes. For instance, HS-6 481710 is for envelopes, while HS-6 481730 includes correspondence cards.
When classifying your products, remember that HS-6 481720 is limited to items that are not printed or embellished. If your postcards feature designs or text, you may need to look at other classifications.
This HS-6 line is essential for businesses involved in direct mail marketing, tourism, or any industry that relies on sending simple, unadorned postcards to customers.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
plain postcards · letter cards · paperboard products · unprinted correspondence · stationery items · direct mail marketing · bulk postcards · simple letter cards · paper products · shipping postcards · plain stationery · postcard classification · letter card export · paperboard envelopes · plain card shipments · marketing postcards · tourist postcards
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- 1,000 plain postcards for a promotional mailing
- Bulk shipment of letter cards for a stationery retailer
- Plain postcards used for tourist attractions
- Letter cards sent as part of a direct mail campaign
- Unprinted correspondence cards for personal use
- Plain postcards packaged in a box for resale
- Letter cards designed for business correspondence
- Assorted plain postcards for a gift shop
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify letter cards for export?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are plain postcards covered under HS-6 481720?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Difference between HS-6 481720 and 481710?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 481720?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS-6 481720 for printed postcards?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to ship letter cards internationally?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What is the correct code for unprinted postcards?
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 determine HS code for plain postcards
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Classification of letter cards made of paper
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What items are included in HS-6 481720
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Shipping plain postcards for marketing purposes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Difference between correspondence cards and letter cards
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Using HS-6 481720 for bulk postcard shipments
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Exporting plain postcards and letter cards
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Identifying the right HS code for stationery products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What is covered under HS-6 481720?
- HS-6 481720 covers plain postcards and letter cards made of paper or paperboard, without any printing or embellishments.
- Can I use HS-6 481720 for printed postcards?
- No, HS-6 481720 is specifically for unprinted postcards and letter cards. Printed items may require a different classification.
- What is the difference between HS-6 481720 and HS-6 481710?
- HS-6 481720 is for plain postcards and letter cards, while HS-6 481710 is designated for envelopes.
- How do I classify letter cards for export?
- Use HS-6 481720 for letter cards that are plain and made from paper or paperboard.
- What should I know about shipping plain postcards?
- Ensure your postcards are unprinted and classify them under HS-6 481720 to avoid customs issues.
- Are there any specific packaging requirements for HS-6 481720?
- While there are no strict packaging requirements, it's advisable to package them securely to prevent damage during shipping.
- Can I include other stationery items with HS-6 481720 products?
- No, if you include other stationery items, you may need to classify them under their respective HS codes.
- How can I find the right HS code for my stationery products?
- Consult the Harmonized System documentation or work with a customs broker to ensure accurate classification.
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