HS code for envelopes
The U.S. HS code for envelopes is usually 4817.10.00.00 (paper), 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper | 4817.10.00.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 4817.10.00.00: Envelopes
What decides the code
Paper envelopes are classified under heading 4817, specifically subheading 4817.10.00.00 for envelopes of paper or paperboard.
- Material decides the heading. Envelopes of paper or paperboard fall in heading 4817, and the specific line 4817.10.00.00 covers envelopes.
- A change to a non-paper material, such as plastic film, moves the article out of heading 4817 to a heading for that material.
- Goods that are not envelopes, such as plain postcards or letter cards, stay in heading 4817 but do not take the envelope subheading 4817.10.00.00.
Common mistakes
- Classifying paper envelopes under 4819 is wrong. Heading 4819 covers cartons, boxes and similar paper packing containers, not envelopes.
- Classifying envelopes under 4820 is wrong. Heading 4820 covers registers, notebooks and similar stationery, not envelopes.
- Classifying printed paper envelopes as printed matter under 4911 is wrong. The envelope itself is classified by heading 4817.
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 4817.10.00.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Paper
- CN 4817 10 00, Free
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 envelopes?
The U.S. HTS code for envelopes is usually 4817.10.00.00 (paper). The first six digits, 4817.10, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on envelopes from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 4817.10.00.00 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
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.