HS code for pencils
The U.S. HS code for pencils is usually 9609.10.00.00 (graphite), with a general duty of 14¢/gross + 4.3% and an estimated total of 16.8% from China and 16.8% 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 41.8% in total. The general rate also has a per unit part that is not in the percentages. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphite | 9609.10.00.00 | 14¢/gross + 4.3% | 16.8% |
- 9609.10.00.00: Pencils and crayons, with leads encased in a sheath
What decides the code
Graphite pencils with leads encased in a sheath are classified under heading 9609, specifically subheading 9609.10.00.00.
- The lead is encased in a sheath, which places the article in subheading 9609.10 as a pencil or crayon.
- The writing core is graphite, which fits the pencils covered by heading 9609.
- A pencil with a mechanical or propelling mechanism and a refillable lead falls in heading 9608, not 9609.
Common mistakes
- Classifying graphite pencils under heading 9608 as pens is wrong because 9608 covers pens, markers and mechanical pencils, not sheath pencils.
- Classifying under 9609.20 as pencil leads is wrong because that line covers leads sold separately, not leads encased in a sheath.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 16.8% = 14¢/gross + 4.3% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 41.8%.
- Vietnam
- 16.8% = 14¢/gross + 4.3% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 9609.10.00.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
Antidumping duty: Cased pencils from China are subject to antidumping order A-570-827. These duties are not in the estimate above.
EU code and duty
- Graphite
- CN 9609 10 10, 2.7%
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 pencils?
The U.S. HTS code for pencils is usually 9609.10.00.00 (graphite). The first six digits, 9609.10, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on pencils from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 9609.10.00.00 is 14¢/gross + 4.3%. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 16.8% of customs value plus the specific duty. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 16.8%. 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.