Find HS Code and trade information for paper book

Paper Book

A paper book is a codex consisting of sheets of paper bound together and protected within covers. It is a traditional form of storing and presenting written information, and remains a widely used medium despite the rise of digital alternatives.

Material:

• Paper: Typically manufactured from wood pulp, though historically materials like papyrus, vellum (calfskin), and linen rags were common. Paper weight (measured in gsm - grams per square meter) varies significantly, affecting the feel and durability of the book.
• Binding: Methods include:
  • Perfect Binding: Pages are glued together along the spine (common for paperbacks).
  • Case Binding (Hardcover): Pages are sewn together in sections and glued to boards covered in cloth, paper, or leather. Offers greater durability.
  • Saddle Stitching: Pages are folded and stapled through the spine (common for magazines and pamphlets).
  • Spiral Binding: Pages are held together by a plastic or metal coil. Allows the book to lay flat.
• Covers: Materials range from inexpensive paperboard to durable cloth, leather, or plastic.
• Ink: Traditionally oil-based or water-based inks are used for printing text and images.

Purpose:

• Information Storage: Primary function is to preserve and convey written information, including narratives, factual data, poetry, and scholarly work.
• Entertainment: Novels, short story collections, and other fiction provide leisure reading.
• Education: Textbooks, reference materials, and academic publications facilitate learning.
• Artistic Expression: Illustrated books, art books, and limited-edition volumes showcase visual art.

Function:

• Sequential Presentation: Information is organized into pages, chapters, and sections for a linear reading experience.
• Portability: Relatively lightweight and easily transportable.
• Tactile Experience: Offers a physical interaction with the content.
• Visual Layout: Typography, illustrations, and page design contribute to readability and aesthetic appeal.

Usage Scenarios:

• Reading for Pleasure: Novels, poetry, and other fiction enjoyed at home, during travel, or in leisure settings.
• Academic Study: Textbooks, reference books, and scholarly publications used in educational institutions and research.
• Professional Development: Non-fiction books, manuals, and guides used for career advancement.
• Art and Design: Art books, design portfolios, and illustrated volumes used for inspiration and reference.
• Collecting: First editions, rare books, and signed copies valued by collectors.

Common Types:

• Hardcover: Durable, long-lasting, often used for important works or collectible editions.
• Paperback: Less expensive, more portable, commonly used for mass-market publications.
• Textbook: Designed for educational purposes, often includes supplementary materials.
• Reference Book: Provides concise information on specific topics (e.g., dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases).
• Novel: A long work of fiction.
• Non-fiction: Based on factual information and real events.
• Children's Book: Designed for young readers, often features illustrations and simplified language.
• Cookbook: Contains recipes and cooking instructions.
• Art Book: Showcases visual art and artistic techniques.
• Poetry Collection: Anthology of poems.

Paper books fall under the category of printed matter, specifically encompassing printed books, brochures, leaflets, and similar items, whether presented as single sheets or bound volumes. These are commonly used for disseminating information, literature, educational purposes, and general reading.

The following HS codes are relevant:

• 4901990010: This HS code covers “Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheets: Other: Other Textbooks”. This classification applies to a wide range of printed books, including textbooks and other similar publications. The applicable tax rate structure includes a base tariff of 0.0%, a surcharge of 7.5%, and a surcharge increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 37.5%.

• 4820900000: This HS code covers “Registers, account books, notebooks, order books, receipt books, letter pads, memorandum pads, diaries and similar articles, exercise books, blotting pads, binders (looseleaf or other), folders, file covers, manifold business forms, interleaved carbon sets and other articles of stationery, of paper or paperboard; albums for samples or for collections and book covers (including cover boards and book jackets) of paper or paperboard: Other”. This classification includes items like notebooks, diaries, and other stationery articles made of paper or paperboard. The applicable tax rate structure includes a base tariff of 0.0%, a surcharge of 25.0%, and a surcharge increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 55.0%.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'paper book' are limited, with only the following 2 found.