Printed or illustrated postcards; printed cards bearing personal greetings, messages or announcements, whether or not illustrated, with or without envelopes or trimmings
2 declarable lines
Heading 4909 covers printed or illustrated postcards and printed cards that carry personal greetings, messages, or announcements, with or without envelopes or trimmings. The heading is split between postcards in 4909.00.20.00 and other printed cards in 4909.00.40.00. Both lines carry a general (MFN) rate of Free.
Products in this heading
- Printed postcards with scenic photos
- Illustrated blank postcards
- Birth announcement cards
- Wedding invitation cards with personal text
- Holiday greeting cards with envelopes
- Thank-you cards with printed personal messages
- Printed cards announcing a change of address
- Printed personal note cards
How to choose the right subheading
- Decide first whether the item is a postcard, meaning it is printed or illustrated for mailing without an envelope.
- Decide whether the card bears a personal greeting, message, or announcement rather than general printed content.
- Check whether the item is a single card or a folded card; both can stay in 4909 if the content is personal.
- Treat an envelope or trimming as non-decisive; heading 4909 covers cards with or without them.
- Use 4909.00.20.00 for postcards and 4909.00.40.00 for other printed personal cards; general printed matter goes to heading 4911.
Often confused with
- Heading 4910Printed calendars
Calendars of any kind are classified in heading 4910, not 4909.
- Heading 4901Printed books and brochures
Books, brochures, and leaflets are in heading 4901.
- Heading 4903Children's coloring books
Children's picture, drawing, and coloring books are in heading 4903.
- Heading 4907Unused postage stamps
Unused stamps of current issue are in heading 4907.
- Heading 4911Printed photographs and pictures
Printed pictures and photographs not bearing personal greetings are in heading 4911.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HTS code for a printed postcard?
A printed postcard is classified under 4909.00.20.00, and the general (MFN) rate is Free.
What is the duty on greeting cards with a personal message?
A printed card bearing a personal greeting or message is classified under 4909.00.40.00, and the general (MFN) rate is Free.
How do I classify an announcement card with an envelope?
The envelope does not change the heading; use 4909.00.20.00 for a postcard or 4909.00.40.00 for another printed personal card, both with a general (MFN) rate of Free.
Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.