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HSChapter 48
U.S. imports of transfer papers and paper offset plates (cut to size or shape) (HS 481690) totaled $715K in April 2026, traded with 10 countries.
Last updated: April 2026 dataTransfer papers and paper-based offset printing plates serve distinct but related roles in the graphic arts and printing industries — transfer papers carry images or patterns for application to other surfaces, while paper offset plates are single-use printing substrates for short-run lithographic work. Japan leads US import supply under this heading, with China and South Korea also notable sources, reflecting Asia's concentration of precision printing-consumables manufacturing. All imports enter under 4816900100; the offset-plate segment in particular competes with aluminum and polyester plate alternatives, so material specification is a key classification and procurement consideration.
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Paper offset plates are classified under heading 4816 because the essential material is paper. Aluminum offset plates fall under Chapter 76 (aluminum articles), and polyester-based plates are classified under Chapter 39 (plastics). The substrate material at time of importation determines the correct chapter, so the technical specification sheet should clearly identify the plate base material.
Paper offset plates are typically used for very short print runs where the lower cost of a paper substrate outweighs its shorter press life. They are common in quick-print and in-plant printing environments. For longer runs, aluminum or polyester plates are preferred, which is why paper plate imports tend to serve price-sensitive, low-volume segments of the commercial printing market.
Monthly import values over time
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