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GOODS ACROSS BORDERS

HS HEADING 4901

Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheets

In plain English

This category includes printed books, brochures, leaflets, and similar items, regardless of whether they are in single sheets. The classification separates single-sheet printed matter, whether folded or not, from other specific types. Dictionaries, encyclopedias, and their serial parts form one distinct group. All other printed books, brochures, and leaflets that do not fit into the single-sheet or reference work categories fall into the remaining group.

PARAPHRASE OF THE OFFICIAL HS 2022 TEXTS BELOW — NOT LEGAL ADVICE

6-digit subheadings (3)

Official HS 2022 subheading texts. National tariff schedules subdivide these further (8-10 digit lines) and set the actual duty rates.

4901.10

Printed matter; in single sheets, whether or not folded

4901.91

Printed matter; dictionaries, encyclopaedias and serial instalments thereof

4901.99

Printed matter; books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter n.e.c. in item no. 4901.10 or 4901.91

Covered items classified under 4901

Chapter 49 classification notes

Chapter 49 typically duty-free under MFN treatment globally (UNESCO Florence Agreement on importation of educational materials). Religious / political materials may be subject to content review at destination.

Frequent misclassification in this chapter

Postcards / greeting cards (4909) vs. printed pictures (4911); academic journals (4902) vs. textbooks (4901).

Classification certainty

The 6-digit level shown here is the internationally harmonised layer. Duty rates attach to national 8-10 digit tariff lines, which differ by country — use the duty calculator for lane estimates. For binding certainty, request a ruling from the destination customs authority.

Binding tariff ruling database

Other headings in Chapter 49

RULES5,339COUNTRIES85ITEMS111CARRIERS28GUIDES46UNIQUE SOURCES645LATEST VERIFICATION2026-07-26MethodologyChangelog