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HS-6 · Subheading

490520

Maps and hydrographic or similar charts; printed in book form, including atlases, topographical plans and similar

Heading 4905Maps and hydrographic or similar charts of all kinds, including atlases, wall maps, topographical plans and globes, printed

Chapter 49: Printed books, newspapers

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 490520 when importing or exporting printed maps and hydrographic charts in book form, such as atlases or topographical plans. For instance, if you're shipping a collection of printed topographical maps for educational purposes, this code applies.

This code specifically covers printed maps that are bound in book format, distinguishing them from other types of maps that may be printed on single sheets or used for different purposes. For example, HS-6 490510 includes unbound maps, while HS-6 490530 refers to wall maps.

When classifying your shipment, consider whether the maps are intended for navigation, education, or general reference. Printed atlases that compile various geographical features or topographical details fall under this HS-6 code.

If you're unsure whether your printed materials qualify under this code, check the binding and format. Maps that are loose or not bound in book form should be classified differently.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

printed maps · hydrographic charts · atlases · topographical plans · book format maps · importing maps · exporting atlases · navigation charts · educational maps · bound maps · shipping printed maps · geographical atlases · map classification · printed materials

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • A shipment of 100 atlases featuring detailed geographical maps of the United States.
  • Printed topographical plans for use in urban planning, bound as a book.
  • Educational materials including printed maps of historical significance, packaged as a textbook.
  • A collection of hydrographic charts for maritime navigation, printed and bound.
  • Wall maps of various countries included in a printed atlas format.
  • Tourist guidebooks that include printed maps of local attractions.
  • A series of printed maps showcasing national parks, bound together for distribution.
  • Topographic maps used in geology studies, printed and sold as a book.

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS code 490520 used for?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify printed maps for customs?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

Are atlases covered under HS-6 490520?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What types of maps fall under HS-6 490520?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Can I use HS-6 490520 for unbound maps?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What is the difference between HS-6 490520 and 490510?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to import printed topographical plans?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What documents do I need for shipping printed maps?

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 if my maps qualify for HS-6 490520

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

What are the requirements for importing printed atlases

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

Differences between HS-6 490520 and 490530 for maps

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

Examples of products classified under HS-6 490520

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Steps to classify printed hydrographic charts for customs

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

Guidelines for exporting printed maps in book form

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

What to include in a shipment of printed topographical maps

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Understanding the classification of educational printed maps

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 types of maps are included in HS-6 490520?
HS-6 490520 covers printed maps and hydrographic charts that are bound in book form, including atlases and topographical plans.
Can I classify unbound maps under HS-6 490520?
No, unbound maps should be classified under HS-6 490510, which is for printed maps not in book form.
What is the difference between HS-6 490520 and HS-6 490530?
HS-6 490520 is for printed maps in book form, while HS-6 490530 covers wall maps that are typically not bound.
Do I need special documentation for importing printed maps?
Yes, you may need to provide invoices, packing lists, and any relevant permits depending on the destination country's regulations.
Are educational maps classified under HS-6 490520?
Yes, educational maps that are printed and bound in book form can be classified under HS-6 490520.
How do I know if my printed materials qualify for this code?
Check if the maps are printed and bound together as a book; if so, they likely qualify for HS-6 490520.
What is the best way to package printed maps for shipping?
Package printed maps in protective covers or boxes to prevent damage, ensuring they remain flat and intact during transit.
Can I use HS-6 490520 for maps intended for navigation?
Yes, if those navigation maps are printed and bound in book form, they can be classified under HS-6 490520.

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