Thermal Transfer Ribbon Paper from China
This is a coated paper base used in thermal transfer ribbons for printing barcodes and labels on packaging. It falls under HTS 4809.90.71.00 because it is specifically coated with a wax or resin layer to enable ink transfer during printing, without further treatment. The coating allows heat-activated transfer of images onto various substrates.
Duty Rate — China → United States
35%
Rate breakdown
9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
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)
Import Tips
• Verify coating composition meets 'impregnated or coated' criteria via lab testing to avoid reclassification
• Provide detailed technical specs and end-use certificates to confirm it's transfer paper, not plain coated stock
• Watch for common pitfalls like insufficient documentation on fiber content, leading to delays at customs