Do boxes get tariffed when imported to the US?
Most printed paperboard and corrugated boxes enter the US under low most-favored-nation rates, not the higher rates applied to some other goods. The exact rate depends on the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code and the material. This guide is factual orientation, not a quote—confirm the live rate with US CBP or your broker before ordering.
Common HTS codes for boxes
| HTS range | Covers |
|---|---|
| 4819.20 | Folded, glued, or boxed paper/paperboard (cartons, boxes) |
| 4819.10 | Cartons, boxes, cases of corrugated paper |
| 4819.30 | Sacks and bags of paper |
Rates shift, so treat the code as a starting point, not a final number.
How MOQ interacts with landed cost
Tariff is charged on customs value, so a smaller first order means less duty at risk while you validate. Our MOQ 100 lets you land a real batch, pay modest duty, and scale only after sell-through. Lead time from approved artwork is 7–12 working days from our ISO 9001-certified Guangzhou workshop.
Incoterms decide who pays
Whether duty is your line item depends on the shipping term. With EXW you own the shipment from our door; with DDP we deliver duty-paid to your address. The difference in real cost is bigger than most buyers expect—read our DDP vs EXW cost guide. Our Guangzhou workshop ships both ways.
Where to check
For file specs, reorder, and shipping terms, see the packaging FAQ. We make the boxes; your broker confirms the tariff.