Poplar Wood Pencil Slats from China
Economical poplar wood slats with precise V-grooves for mass-market pencil production. Classified under HTS 4421.91.98.20 as pencil slats made from temperate hardwood. Supplied in standard lengths of 197mm for international pencil manufacturers.
Duty Rate — China → United States
40.8%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Batch testing for moisture content (under 12%) prevents classification disputes
• Clear labeling as 'pencil slats only - not finished pencils' avoids reclassification
• Origin certificates crucial for preferential duty treatment under trade agreements