HS code for artist paint brushes
The U.S. HS code for artist paint brushes is usually 9603.30.60.00 (set), with no general duty and an estimated total of 12.5% from China and 12.5% from Vietnam once additional duties are added.
Estimates use tariff data as of October 22, 2026. The China and Vietnam estimates include Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%). From China, Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply, up to 37.5% in total. Classifications and duty estimates are guidance based on the published HTSUS. The importer of record is responsible for the final classification.
Codes by variant
| Variant | HTS code | General duty | Est. from China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Set | 9603.30.60.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 9603.30.60.00: Artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics / Valued over 10¢ each
What decides the code
Artist paint brushes are classified as artists' brushes under heading 9603, in subheading 9603.30.60.00 when valued over 10¢ each.
- The product is an artist's brush for applying paint, which places it in heading 9603 as an artists' brush.
- Unit value over 10¢ each puts the brush in 9603.30.60.00 rather than the lower value line of the same subheading.
- A set of brushes is classified by the brushes it contains, so each brush's value and type control the line.
Common mistakes
- Classifying artist paint brushes under 9603.40 as paint pads and rollers is wrong because those are flat applicators, not brushes with handles and tufts.
- Using 9603.29 for other brushes is wrong because heading 9603 has a dedicated artists' brushes subheading, 9603.30.
- Treating the brushes as writing brushes under a different subheading is wrong because 9603.30 covers artists' brushes, writing brushes and cosmetic brushes together.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 37.5%.
- Vietnam
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 9603.30.60.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Set
- CN 9603 30 10, 3.7%
EU Combined Nomenclature 2026, third-country (erga omnes) duty. Preferential rates and EU trade remedy duties are not included.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for artist paint brushes?
The U.S. HTS code for artist paint brushes is usually 9603.30.60.00 (set). The first six digits, 9603.30, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on artist paint brushes from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 9603.30.60.00 is Free. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 12.5% of customs value. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 12.5%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
- 9603.30.60.00Artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics / Valued over 10¢ each
- Heading 9603Brooms, brushes (including brushes constituting parts of machines, appliances or vehicles), hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers, not motorized, mops and feather dusters; prepared knots and tufts for broom or brush making; paint pads and rollers; squeegees (other than roller squeegees)
Related products
Codes checked against the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule retrieved October 22, 2026. Additional duties reviewed October 22, 2026. This is an estimate: the importer of record is responsible for classification.