Offset Lithographic Black Ink
A high-quality black printing ink formulated specifically for offset lithography, containing pigments dispersed in a varnish base suitable for high-speed sheetfed presses. It classifies under HTS 3215.19.9050 as an other offset lithographic printing ink, distinct from standard black inks due to its specialized rheology and drying properties for lithographic processes.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If formulated for letterpress printing
Letterpress printing inks are specifically classified under 3215.11, separate from offset lithographic types.
If it's a standard black offset ink
Basic black offset inks go under 3215.19.10; specialized formulations like metallic or high-opacity fall into 3215.19.9050.
If solvent content exceeds 50% by weight
Per chapter notes, solutions of printing ink bases in volatile solvents over 50% classify under heading 3208, not 3215.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify ink composition meets EPA VOC limits and provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for customs clearance
• Label containers with exact pigment type, solvent content, and 'For Offset Lithography Use Only' to avoid misclassification
Related Products under HTS 3215.19.90.50
Offset Process Cyan Ink
Process cyan ink designed for four-color offset lithographic printing on web presses, offering excellent dot gain control and rub resistance. It falls under HTS 3215.19.9050 as other offset lithographic ink, optimized for CMYK process work beyond standard colors.
Sheetfed Offset Metallic Gold Ink
Leafing metallic gold ink for sheetfed offset lithography, used for luxury packaging and foiling effects. Though metallic, its non-standard formulation places it in HTS 3215.19.9050 as other offset lithographic ink.
Waterless Offset Ink
Specialized ink for waterless offset lithography, eliminating fountain solution for sharper prints on packaging. Classifies under HTS 3215.19.9050 due to its unique ink-water balance for waterless plates.
Hybrid UV-Conventional Offset Ink
Dual-cure ink combining UV and conventional drying for offset presses, ideal for high-volume labels. Falls into HTS 3215.19.9050 as other specialized offset lithographic ink.
High-Opaquity White Offset Ink
Opaque white ink for offset lithography underprinting, providing coverage on colored stocks. Classified HTS 3215.19.9050 as other offset ink beyond standard white.
Eco-Soy Based Offset Ink
Vegetable oil-based offset ink using soy derivatives for reduced VOC emissions in lithographic printing. HTS 3215.19.9050 covers this other sustainable formulation.