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

9609.20.40.00 - 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 Duty6¢/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, 9609.20.40.00, specifically covers pencil leads that exceed 1.5 millimeters in their maximum cross-sectional dimension. These leads are intended for use in pencils or mechanical pencils and are distinguished from other pencil leads by this physical characteristic. The material composition, whether graphite, colored pigments, or a combination thereof, is not the primary determinant for classification within this specific subheading, provided they are designed as pencil leads.

Crucially, this subheading differentiates itself from its sibling, 9609.20.20.00, based solely on the diameter. While 9609.20.20.00 pertains to pencil leads with a maximum cross-sectional dimension *not over* 1.5 mm (i.e., 1.5 mm or less), this category applies to leads with a diameter *over* 1.5 mm. This distinction is vital for accurate tariff application and revenue collection.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to explore. Therefore, classification under 9609.20.40.00 is definitive for pencil leads meeting the specified diameter criterion. Examples of goods that would fall under this subheading include thicker leads for carpenter's pencils, artists' sketching leads, or leads for certain industrial marking pencils where a broader line is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

›What is HTS code 9609.20.40.00?
HTS code 9609.20.40.00 covers 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 9609.20.40.00?
This classification covers 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 9609.20.40.00?
The general rate of duty for HTS 9609.20.40.00 is Free. The Column 2 rate is 6¢/gross.
›What unit of quantity is used for 9609.20.40.00?
Imports under HTS 9609.20.40.00 are measured in gross.

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