💾 Data Updated: Latest version • Last updated: December 09, 2025

9609.20.20.00 - Not over 1.5 mm in maximum cross-sectional dimension 🖩

Details

FieldValue
Unit of Quantitygross
General Rate of Duty (Column 1 - General)Free
Special Rate of Duty (Column 1 - Special)N/A
Column 2 Rate of Duty20¢/gross
Quota QuantityN/A
Additional DutiesN/A
About Duty Rates: Rates are divided into Column 1 and Column 2. Column 1 is subdivided into General (normal trade relations rates for all countries not eligible for special programs) and Special (preferential rates for countries with free trade agreements or preference programs). Column 2 rates apply to products from Cuba, North Korea, Belarus, and Russia. When no special rate exists for a classification, General rates apply.

Overview

This HTS category, 9609.20.20.00, specifically classifies pencil leads that have a maximum cross-sectional dimension *not exceeding 1.5 mm*. These leads are typically made from graphite or a mixture of graphite and clay, and are designed for use in mechanical pencils or other drafting instruments where a fine line is required. The precise measurement of the lead's diameter is the critical factor for classification within this subheading.

This classification is distinct from its sibling category, 9609.20.40.00, which covers pencil leads with a maximum cross-sectional dimension *exceeding 1.5 mm*. Therefore, if a pencil lead's diameter is, for example, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, or even precisely 1.5 mm, it would fall under 9609.20.20.00. Conversely, leads with diameters of 2.0 mm or greater would be classified under the sibling subheading.

As a leaf node within the HTS, this category does not have further subdivisions. The classification is definitive based on the "not over 1.5 mm" criterion, encompassing all pencil leads meeting this dimensional requirement, regardless of whether they are black or colored. Examples of products classified here include leads for mechanical pencils, technical drawing leads, and leads for fine-point mechanical crayon holders.

Frequently Asked Questions

›What is HTS code 9609.20.20.00?
HTS code 9609.20.20.00 covers Not over 1.5 mm in maximum cross-sectional dimension under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It falls under Chapter 96: Miscellaneous manufactured articles.
›What products are classified under 9609.20.20.00?
This classification covers Not over 1.5 mm in maximum cross-sectional dimension. It is a subcategory of Pencil leads, black or colored: (9609.20).
›What is the import duty rate for 9609.20.20.00?
The general rate of duty for HTS 9609.20.20.00 is Free. The Column 2 rate is 20¢/gross.
›What unit of quantity is used for 9609.20.20.00?
Imports under HTS 9609.20.20.00 are measured in gross.

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