HS code for shipping labels
The U.S. HS code for shipping labels is usually 4821.90.20.00 (blank, self-adhesive), 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blank, self-adhesive | 4821.90.20.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 4821.90.20.00: Paper and paperboard labels of all kinds, whether or not printed / Self-adhesive
What decides the code
Blank self-adhesive paper shipping labels are classified under heading 4821 as paper labels of all kinds, whether or not printed, specifically 4821.90.20.00 for self-adhesive labels.
- Paper or paperboard construction keeps the label in heading 4821. A label of plastic film or textile would fall outside this heading.
- Self-adhesive backing places the label in 4821.90.20.00. A label without adhesive, such as a gummed or tie-on label, takes another line in heading 4821.
- The labels are blank, so they are not printed matter. Printing alone does not move a paper label out of heading 4821.
Common mistakes
- Classifying under 4821.10 as printed labels is wrong for blank stock. That line covers labels that are printed.
- Putting self-adhesive labels in Chapter 39 as plastic is wrong when the label face is paper. The adhesive backing does not make the article plastic.
- Treating the labels as printed paper under heading 4911 is wrong. Blank labels carry no printed text or images.
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 4821.90.20.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Blank, self-adhesive
- CN 4821 90 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 shipping labels?
The U.S. HTS code for shipping labels is usually 4821.90.20.00 (blank, self-adhesive). The first six digits, 4821.90, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on shipping labels from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 4821.90.20.00 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.