HS code for paper plates
The U.S. HS code for paper plates is usually 4823.69.00.40 (disposable), 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disposable | 4823.69.00.40 | Free | 12.5% |
- 4823.69.00.40: Trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like, of paper or paperboard / Other
What decides the code
Disposable paper plates are classified under heading 4823 as other articles of paper or paperboard, specifically subheading 4823.69.00.40 for trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like.
- The plate is made of paper or paperboard, which places it in heading 4823 as an article of paper.
- The article is a plate, so it falls under the trays, dishes, plates, cups and the like group in 4823.69.
- The plate is disposable and not of a kind covered by a more specific heading, so it stays in the residual Other line 4823.69.00.40.
Common mistakes
- Classifying paper plates under heading 4818 is wrong because that heading covers sanitary or household paper products such as napkins and towels, not plates.
- Classifying under 4823.70 is wrong because that line covers molded or pressed articles of paper pulp, not cut or shaped paperboard plates.
- Classifying under 3924 is wrong because that heading covers plastic tableware, and a paper plate is not plastic.
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 4823.69.00.40, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Disposable
- CN 4823 69 10, 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 paper plates?
The U.S. HTS code for paper plates is usually 4823.69.00.40 (disposable). The first six digits, 4823.69, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on paper plates from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 4823.69.00.40 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
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.