HS Code:
The category of packing boxes and cases with solid sides, lids, and bottoms (often classified under HS Code 4819.10 or similar, depending on material such as paperboard or wood) includes containers used for packaging, storage, and transportation of goods. These products are essential in industries such as retail, e-commerce, food and beverage, and manufacturing, providing protection and organization for a wide range of products. They are typically made from materials like corrugated paperboard, wood, or plastic, and their design ensures durability and security during shipping and handling. This category is critical to global supply chains, supporting the safe delivery of goods across borders.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 3.8 billion
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.5 billion
16.4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.9 billion
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.2 billion
7.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.9 billion
5.9% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Shift towards sustainable materials
Increased demand for eco-friendly packing solutions like biodegradable paperboard and recycled materials due to environmental concerns and regulations, driving innovation in production processes.
2021-2023
E-commerce boom
Rapid growth in online shopping has led to a surge in demand for durable and customizable packing boxes to ensure safe delivery of goods, particularly in North America and Asia-Pacific.
2020-2022
Automation in manufacturing
Adoption of automated production lines for packing boxes has reduced costs and increased output, benefiting major exporters like China and Germany.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, mandating higher recycling targets and restrictions on single-use plastics for packing materials.
March 2023
Increased costs for manufacturers not compliant with sustainability standards, while boosting demand for paperboard and recycled material-based packing solutions.
Phase One of the US-China trade agreement included provisions to reduce tariffs on certain packaging products, facilitating smoother trade flows for packing boxes and cases.
January 2022
Enhanced export opportunities for Chinese manufacturers to the US market, contributing to a 10% increase in trade volume for this category.
Ongoing supply chain challenges, including raw material shortages (e.g., paper pulp) and shipping delays, have affected the availability and pricing of packing boxes globally.
Mid-2022
Price volatility and delivery delays for end-users, prompting some companies to localize production and sourcing.