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48203000
PAPER AND PAPERBOARD; ARTICLES OF PAPER PULP, OF PAPER OR OF PAPERBOARDRegisters, account books, notebooks, order books, receipt books, letter pads, memorandum pads, diaries and similar articles, exercise books, blotting pads, binders (loose-leaf 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, of paper or paperboard

Binders (other than book covers), folders and file covers

Standard EU duty
0%
VAT
23%
Additional duties / sanctions
0 rules
Docs required
6 docs
N954U045U078U079Y997Y984
Preferences
ERGA OMNES 0%GB 0%
5

Binding Tariff Information

BTI classification examples

DEgold450/24-1

Cardboard hanging file folders with metal hooks

paperboardGRI 1GRI 2aGRI 2bGRI 6
DEgold760/24-1

Flat folding portfolio made of cardboard

paperGRI 1GRI 6
CZgold00-ZI/01

Foldable portfolio for school notebooks and documents

paperboardGRI 1GRI 2bGRI 3bGRI 6
DEgold109/24-1

Sample book folder made of cardboard

paperboardGRI 1GRI 2bGRI 3bGRI 6
ESsilver5SOL1240

Retail set: lever arch file and matching box

paperboardGRI 1GRI 3bGRI 6

BTI (Binding Tariff Information) is an official EU customs decision confirming the classification of goods. Valid for 3 years, binding across all EU member states.

Classification of binders and file covers under CN 4820 30

CN code 4820 30 covers binders (other than book covers), folders, and file covers of paper or paperboard. This subheading concerns paper products for organising and storing documents in the form of flap folders, folder covers without metal mechanisms, document sleeves, and protective covers for individual documents or small document sets. Unlike box files with mechanisms (4819 60), folders under code 4820 30 are simple paper products without complex closing mechanisms. Classification requires the product to be made of paper or paperboard and serve a document organisation function. Importers should describe the type and intended use in customs documentation. Plastic folders are classified under Chapter 39 CN.

Import requirements for binders and folders 4820 30

Importing binders and folders under CN code 4820 30 into the EU is subject to the Union Customs Code and requires an EORI number. The EUDR covers paper products — importers must carry out due diligence. Substances in printing inks, adhesives, and dyes are subject to REACH verification. Import documentation includes a commercial invoice, material specification, certificate of origin, and EUDR statement. MFN and preferential duty rates should be verified in TARIC. Customs preferences may be available under EU trade agreements with countries exporting office supplies.

Market and classification of paper folders 4820 30

Binders and paper folders under CN code 4820 30 are office products with stable but slightly declining demand due to digitalisation. Major exporters include China, India, and Southeast Asian countries. Correct classification requires distinguishing paper folders (4820 30) from box files with mechanisms (4819 60), albums (4820 50), and notebooks (4820 20). In case of doubts, obtaining a BTI decision is recommended.

Classification of paper packaging and cartons CN 4820 30

Paper and board packaging under CN 4820 30 represents a significant import category. Classification depends on material (corrugated, solid, multi-ply), form (folding, glued), and purpose. Food contact packaging must meet EC Regulation 1935/2004. Standard customs duty and import VAT apply at destination rates.

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes folders 4820 30 from box files 4819 60?
Folders under code 4820 30 are simple paper products for document organisation — flap folders, sleeves, covers — without complex closing mechanisms. Box files under code 4819 60 are more advanced products, often with metal closing mechanisms, for storing larger document collections. The key criterion is construction complexity and mechanism presence.
Are paper folders 4820 30 subject to EUDR?
Yes. The EUDR (Regulation (EU) 2023/1115) covers paper products, including folders under CN code 4820 30. Importers must carry out a due diligence procedure and submit a statement in the EU information system.
What documents are required for importing folders 4820 30?
Import documentation includes a commercial invoice describing the goods, material specification, transport document, certificate of origin for preferential rates, and EUDR statement. Current customs requirements should be verified in TARIC.
What requirements apply to importing paper packaging CN 4820 30?
Packaging CN 4820 30 for food contact must meet EC Regulation 1935/2004. Standard customs duty and import VAT apply. Classification depends on the material and form of packaging.