Parchment Paper
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4806200000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4806100000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4811596000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4811606000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4823908680 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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𧻠Parchment Paper (Food-Grade Greaseproof Paper)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Parchment Paper"?
Parchment paper, often referred to as greaseproof paper or baking paper in international trade, is a highly versatile paper product. It is manufactured through acid bath treatment or silicone coating to achieve high resistance to heat, moisture, and oils. It is primarily used in food packaging, bakery lining, and industrial gaskets.
In the eyes of customs, "Parchment Paper" is not a single category but depends heavily on its manufacturing process and specific application:
- Uncoated/Greaseproof Paper: Paper that has been chemically treated to be naturally grease-resistant (e.g., vegetable parchment).
- Coated/Impregnated Paper: Paper that has a specific layer (like silicone or wax) applied to it for anti-oil properties.
- Other Paper Products: Finished goods cut into specific shapes (like cup liners or bags) that don't fit standard "sheets" definitions.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the paper relies on chemical fiber treatment for grease resistance β Usually falls under 4806.
- If the paper has a silicone or other coating/impregnation for anti-oil purposes β Usually falls under 4811.
- If it is a finished article (e.g., pre-cut bags or trays) not specified elsewhere β Falls under 4823.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most likely HS Codes for "Parchment Paper" and why they apply:
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
4806.20.00.00 |
Greaseproof Paper (Vegetable Parchment) | Food packaging, baking mats | Material is paper; has inherent anti-grease properties due to fiber treatment. |
4806.10.00.00 |
Parchment Paper (Fully Matched) | Premium food packaging, specialty wrapping | Direct match for "Parchment" intended specifically for food/anti-oil use. |
4811.59.60.00 |
Coated/Impregnated Paper (Anti-Oil Treatment) | Industrial food lining, heavy-duty wraps | Paper surface is coated/impregnated to achieve anti-oil feature (e.g., silicone coating). |
4811.60.60.00 |
Oiled Paper Products | Wax paper, oiled wrapping | Paper is covered/impregnated with oil/wax to create a grease barrier. |
4823.90.86.80 |
Other Paper Articles | Pre-cut cup liners, bags, trays | Finished paper goods not specified in earlier chapters; "Other" category. |
π Important Reminder:
- If your product is silicone-coated (common for baking sheets), it is highly likely to be classified under 4811.59 or 4811.60, not 4806.
- If it is uncoated vegetable parchment (traditional greaseproof), it falls under 4806.10 or 4806.20.
- Misclassifying coated paper as uncoated paper can lead to duty discrepancies and customs audits.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and onwards)
All the HS Codes listed above share the same total tariff rate for imports from China.
π― General Tariff Structure for All Listed HS Codes
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Most paper products have a low base MFN rate) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% (Added tariff on Chinese goods under US Trade Act Section 301) |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10.0% (Additional tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Expansion Act) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β NOT APPLICABLE (These goods are subject to full duties, no $800 exemption) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:4806/4811/4823 β Section 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 β Section 122: IEEPA |
π Explanation:
- The Base Rate (0%) reflects the standard international duty for paper products.
- The 35% Total is a heavy burden driven by 25% (Section 301) and 10% (Section 122) punitive tariffs.
- This rate applies uniformly to all five HS codes listed in the data. There is no tariff advantage between4806.20and4811.60for Chinese-origin goods in the US market.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (No Omissions)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: Weight per sq. m, coating type (Silicone? Wax?), grease resistance level. |
| β Composition Statement | βοΈ | Clearly state if it is "Uncoated Vegetable Parchment" vs. "Silicone-Coated Paper." |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the product roll, cut edges, and any packaging labeling. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must include HS Code, Country of Origin (China), and precise description. |
| β Bill of Lading / Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions must match the invoice. |
| β FDA Compliance Docs | βοΈ | Since it's for food contact, FDA compliance documents are often requested. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Critical for Accuracy)
π₯ "Describe the Treatment, Not Just the Shape"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone-Coated Baking Paper | 4811.59.60.00 - Silicone-coated greaseproof paper for food packaging |
Describe only as "Paper" β Risk of reclassification & penalties |
| Uncoated Vegetable Parchment | 4806.20.00.00 - Greaseproof paper, vegetable parchment |
Describe as "Coated Paper" β Wrong HS Code |
| Pre-Cut Cup Liners | 4823.90.86.80 - Other paper articles |
Declare as "Sheets" β Classification error |
| Wax Paper | 4811.60.60.00 - Oiled/Waxed paper |
Declare as "Silicone-Coated" β Inaccurate technical description |
β 3. Special Circumstances
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Printing | Provide print files/color codes. If printing ink is significant, ensure it doesn't alter the primary function (anti-oil). |
| Mixed Container (Paper + Plastic) | Do not mix different HS Codes in one line item. Declare separately to avoid scrutiny. |
| Small Samples (< $800) | β Risk Alert: Although under de minimis, paper products from China are under high scrutiny. It is safer to declare with HS Code and pay the 35% if value is significant, or consult a broker for "Section 301" nuances. |
| Origin Marking | Ensure "Made in China" is clearly marked on the product or packaging. |
π 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Overview)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4806.20.00.00 / 4811.59.60.00 |
35% | FDA (Food Contact) | High tariff due to Section 301 & 122. |
| π¨π³ China | 4806.20.00.00 / 4811.59.60.00 |
~5-8% | GB Standards | Lower domestic tariffs; easier entry. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4806.00 / 4811.59 |
0-6.5% | REACH / LFGB | No Section 301 tariffs, but strict food contact regulations. |
| π¬π§ UK | 4806.00 / 4811.59 |
0-6.5% | UKCA / Food Standards | Post-Brexit rules apply; no Section 301. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 4806.00 / 4811.59 |
0-3% | JFS Standards | Low tariffs, high quality inspection standards. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most expensive market for Chinese parchment paper due to the 35% combined tariff.
- Exporters should consider supply chain diversification (e.g., third-country origin) if targeting the US market with high margins.
- For Europe and Asia, focus on FDA/EFSA compliance and quality consistency rather than tariff optimization.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring Silicone-Coated Paper as Uncoated Parchment (4806)
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify it to 4811 (which has the same 35% duty in this data, but triggers different regulatory checks for food contact coatings).
β Error 2: Using vague descriptions like "Paper Roll"
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine the HS Code accurately β Leads to delays, audits, and potential fines.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 122
π Consequence: Only accounting for Section 301 (25%) and missing the additional 10% β Underpayment of duties.
β Error 4: Mixing Food-Grade and Industrial-Grade paper
π Consequence: Food-grade paper requires FDA proof. If declared as industrial, it may be rejected upon inspection.
β Correct Practice:
"Greaseproof Paper, Silicone-Coated, Food-Grade, for Bakery Packaging, HS 4811.59.60.00, Made in China"
π― 7. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Golden Rules:
πΉ "Coated vs. Uncoated" determines the HS Code chapter (4806 vs. 4811).
πΉ "35% is the Final Number" for US imports from China (0% Base + 25% S301 + 10% S122).
πΉ "Food Contact" requires FDA documentation, regardless of HS Code.
π Pro Tip:
If your parchment paper is coated with non-silicone materials (e.g., PLA for compostability), ensure this is highlighted in the spec sheet, as it may affect FDA compliance but not the tariff rate in this specific data set.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Licensed Customs Broker to confirm the exact HS Code based on your technical specification sheet.
π Calculate Landed Cost including the 35% tariff to ensure profitability for the US market.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every percentage point in tariff impacts your bottom line significantly!
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About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.