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48

Tariff Chapter 48

Carbon paper, self-copy paper and other copying or transfer papers (including coated or impregnated paper for duplicator stencils or offset plates), whether or not printed, in rolls or sheets

What does heading 4809 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 4809 covers carbon paper, self-copy paper and other copying or transfer papers. Paper and paperboard are key materials used in printing, packaging, hygiene and many other sectors. Paper products are subject to EU quality and environmental standards. Customs duty rates range from 0% to 6.5% depending on product type. Import of paper and paperboard is subject to standard customs procedures. Food contact products must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. Heading 4809 is part of Chapter 48 (wood, paper, cardboard and cellulose products) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 4809 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 4809 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.

Duty rates and import requirements for heading 4809

Customs duty rates range from 0% to 6.5% depending on product type. Import of paper and paperboard is subject to standard customs procedures. Paper products under heading 4809 are subject to standard EU customs procedures. Paper and paperboard for food contact require Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 compliance. Large-volume paper imports may benefit from tariff quotas. Check raw material origin labelling (FSC, PEFC certificates) for wood-derived products. When importing goods under heading 4809 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 4809 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system). Goods under heading 4809 are subject to phytosanitary and EUDR compliance controls. Required documentation includes: phytosanitary certificates, EUDR due diligence documents, ISPM 15 markings. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.

Classification of goods under heading 4809 — key considerations

Heading 4809 covers carbon paper, self-copy paper and other copying or transfer papers. Paper and paperboard classified by type (newsprint: 4801, uncoated: 4802/4804/4805, coated: 4810/4811), grammage, finish and use. Paper products (packaging, bags, stationery): 4817-4823. Pulp (raw material): Chapter 47. Key distinction: coating type and grammage determine heading.

Frequently asked questions

What duty rates apply to carbon paper, self-copy paper, duplicating paper (heading 4809)?
Imports of carbon paper, self-copy paper, duplicating paper under heading 4809 are subject to a 0% customs duty rate under the EU conventional tariff. The zero rate applies to most CN subheadings within this heading. Paper and paperboard are key raw materials for EU packaging, printing and converting industries. The exact rate depends on the 8-digit CN code and country of origin. Preferential rates are available under EU trade agreements.
What requirements apply when importing carbon paper into the EU?
Importing paper products under heading 4809 requires standard customs documentation: commercial invoice, customs declaration and certificate of origin. Products for food contact (packaging) must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. REACH requirements apply to chemicals in the production process (bleaching agents, dyes, adhesives). A phytosanitary certificate may be required for products from wood raw material. EUDR compliance is mandatory. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database.
What should be noted when classifying goods under heading 4809?
Heading 4809 covers carbon paper, self-copy paper, duplicating paper. Correct classification requires determining: composition (chemical vs. mechanical pulp), grammage (g/m²), coating, type of treatment and intended use. Chapter 48 of the Combined Nomenclature precisely distinguishes papers by these parameters. In case of doubt, applying for a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) ruling is recommended. Classification affects documentation requirements and preferential rates. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database.