Watercolor Pencils

Soluble colored pencils with water-activated leads encased in a wooden sheath, used for blending techniques in illustration. Under HTS 9609.10.00.00 for encased lead pencils, even with soluble properties for artistic effects. Popular among hobbyists and professionals.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China4.3%+17.5%21.8%
🇲🇽Mexico4.3%+10.0%14.3%
🇨🇦Canada4.3%+10.0%14.3%
🇩🇪Germany4.3%+10.0%14.3%
🇯🇵Japan4.3%+10.0%14.3%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3213.90.00.00Higher: 38.4% vs 21.8%

If marketed as watercolor paints in pencil form

If emphasized as colors in Chapter 32 rather than encased pencils, classification shifts.

9609.90Lower: 10% vs 21.8%

If leads primarily powder-based pastels

Watercolor pastels without firm sheath are other 9609 items.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Document water-solubility as artistic feature, not paint; include solubility test results if queried

Package to prevent moisture exposure during ocean freight

Label as 'art material' to avoid cosmetic misclassification

Related Products under HTS 9609.10.00.00

HB Graphite Wood Pencil

A standard wooden pencil with an HB graphite lead encased in a protective cedar wood sheath, commonly used for writing and sketching. It falls under HTS 9609.10.00.00 as a pencil with lead encased in a sheath, distinct from mechanical pencils in 9608. The wooden casing is whittled to a point for use.

Artists' Colored Pencil Set

Hexagonal colored pencils with pigmented wax-based leads encased in lacquered wood sheaths, designed for professional drawing and coloring. Classified under HTS 9609.10.00.00 due to the encased lead structure suitable for fine art applications. Sets typically include 12-24 vibrant shades.

Carpenter's Hexagonal Pencil

Flat-sided hexagonal pencil with thick graphite lead encased in a durable wood sheath, ideal for marking wood and construction sites. It qualifies for HTS 9609.10.00.00 as a pencil with encased lead, featuring a rectangular cross-section for grip with gloves. Often sold in bulk for trade use.

Golf Pencil

Short 3.5-inch wooden pencil with HB lead encased in a sheath, provided at golf courses for scorecards. Fits HTS 9609.10.00.00 as a compact encased-lead pencil, not a toy or specialty item. Eraserless design for economical use.

Newspaper Pencil

Recycled newspaper pencil with graphite lead encased in a compressed paper sheath, eco-friendly alternative to wood. Classified in HTS 9609.10.00.00 as the sheath encases the lead rigidly for writing. Hexagonal shape mimics traditional pencils.

Jumbo Triangular Pencil for Kids

Thick triangular pencil with soft graphite lead encased in painted wood sheath, ergonomic for young children learning to write. HTS 9609.10.00.00 applies to encased lead pencils regardless of grip shape. Often includes eraser tip.