Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
1.8%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (1.8%) of the declared value of the imported goods.
Special Trade Agreement Rates
The following countries and trade agreements qualify for reduced or eliminated tariffs:
GSP (Generalized System of Preferences)
Australia FTA
Bahrain FTA
Chile FTA
Colombia TPA
AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act)
Caribbean Basin Initiative
Israel FTA
Jordan FTA
Korea-U.S. (KORUS) FTA
Morocco FTA
Oman FTA
CAFTA-DR (Central America)
Panama TPA
Peru TPA
AGOA Least-Developed Beneficiary
Singapore FTA
Rate: Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
10%
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 3215.90.50.00 Covers
This is the residual line under heading 3215 for inks that are not printing inks and not covered by more specific provisions. It captures writing inks, marking inks, stamp-pad inks, and other specialty ink formulations, whether or not concentrated or solid. Many inkjet-style fluids not classified as printing ink also land here.
Notes for Importers
The dividing line within heading 3215 is between printing inks (3215.1x) and everything else (3215.90), so know whether your product is formulated for a printing process. Ink sold inside a pen or a printer cartridge can raise classification questions: the complete article (pen, cartridge as part of a machine) may classify elsewhere, while bulk or refill ink stays in 3215. Drawing ink and india ink have their own breakouts within 3215.90.
Product Category
Chemical Products
This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 3215.90.50.00 |
| Description | Other |
| Chapter | 32 - Chemical Products |
| General Duty Rate | 1.8% |
| Rate Type | Ad Valorem |
| Special Rates | Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are classified under 3215.90.50?
Non-printing inks such as writing ink, marker and stamp-pad ink, security and marking inks, and other specialty ink fluids that do not fit the printing ink or drawing ink provisions.
Are inkjet printer inks classified here?
It depends. Ink formulated for a printing process is generally a printing ink under 3215.1x, and ink imported inside a finished cartridge may classify as part of the printer. Classify by what the fluid actually is and how it is put up.
Does this cover pens filled with ink?
No. A finished pen is classified as a pen in Chapter 96. This heading covers the ink itself, in bulk, bottles, or refill form.
What is the HTS code 3215.90.50.00 used for?
HTS code 3215.90.50.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Other. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 3215.90.50.00?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 3215.90.50.00?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 3215.90.50.00?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 3215.90.50.00 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.