Transfers (decalcomanias)

HS v2017 Code: 4908

About transfers (decalcomanias)

HS code 4908 covers the industry of transfers, also known as decalcomanias. Decalcomanias are a type of graphic design or image that can be transferred from one surface to another, typically used for decorative purposes. This industry plays a significant role in the broader economy, as decalcomanias are widely used in various applications, including product labeling, packaging, and home decor.

Production process

The production of transfers (decalcomanias) involves several key steps. First, the desired image or design is printed onto a special paper or film using techniques such as offset printing, screen printing, or digital printing. The printed image is then coated with a special adhesive or release agent, which allows it to be easily transferred to the target surface. The final step involves the actual transfer process, where the decalcomania is applied to the desired surface, often using heat or pressure to ensure a secure and durable bond.

Production inputs

The main inputs required for the production of transfers (decalcomanias) include specialized paper or film, printing inks, adhesives or release agents, and various printing equipment such as offset presses, screen printing machines, or digital printers. Additionally, the industry may rely on design software and skilled graphic designers to create the original artwork or patterns that are then reproduced as decalcomanias.

Production outputs

The primary output of the transfers (decalcomanias) industry is, of course, the decalcomanias themselves. These products are then consumed by a wide range of industries, including 4911 Printed matter, including printed matter for advertising purposes, 4821 Labels of paper or paperboard, and 9403 Furniture and parts thereof, where they are used for decorative, informational, or branding purposes.

Family tree for transfers (decalcomanias)

    graph LR
    A["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/49'>49: Printed books, newspapers, pictures and other products of the printing industry; manuscripts, typescripts and plans</a>"]
A --> B["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4908'>4908: Transfers (decalcomanias)</a>"]

    A --> C["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4901'>4901: Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheets</a>"]
A --> D["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4902'>4902: Newspapers, journals and periodicals, whether or not illustrated or containing advertising material</a>"]
A --> E["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4903'>4903: Children's picture, drawing or colouring books</a>"]
A --> F["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4904'>4904: Music, printed or in manuscript, whether or not bound or illustrated</a>"]
A --> G["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4905'>4905: Maps and hydrographic or similar charts of all kinds, including atlases, wall maps, topographical plans and globes, printed</a>"]
A --> H["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4906'>4906: Plans and drawings; for architectural, engineering, industrial, commercial, topographical or similar, being originals drawn by hand; hand-written texts; photo- graphic reproductions; their carbon copies</a>"]
A --> I["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4907'>4907: Unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of current or new issue in the country in which they have, or will have, a recognised face value; stamp-impressed paper; cheque forms; banknotes, stock, share or bond certificates and the like of similar title</a>"]
A --> J["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4909'>4909: Printed or illustrated postcards; printed cards bearing personal greetings, messages or announcements, whether or not illustrated, with or without envelopes or trimmings</a>"]
A --> K["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4910'>4910: Calendars of any kind, printed, including calendar blocks</a>"]
A --> L["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/4911'>4911: Printed matter, n.e.c., including printed pictures and photographs</a>"]

    B --> M["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/490810'>490810: Printed matter; transfers (decalcomanias), vitrifiable</a>"]
B --> N["<a href='/classifications/hs/v2017/490890'>490890: Printed matter; transfers (decalcomanias), other than vitrifiable</a>"]


    %% Color coordination by level

    classDef level1 color:#000,fill:#a8f9ff,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
    classDef level2 color:#000,fill:#e0a458,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level3 color:#000,fill:#419d78,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level4 color:#000,fill:#c04abc,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level5 color:#000,fill:#f1c40f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef level6 color:#000,fill:#f1c40f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
    classDef highlight color:#000,fill:#fff,stroke:#000,stroke-width:5px



  %% Apply classes
  class A level2
class B level4
class C level4
class D level4
class E level4
class F level4
class G level4
class H level4
class I level4
class J level4
class K level4
class L level4
class M level6
class N level6

  class B highlight

  %% class A level1
  %% class B,C level2
  %% class D,E,F,G,H,I level2
  %% class J,K,L,M,N,O,P level3
  %% class B highlight