Sticker HSN Code: Taxation Guide
Stickers are used on products, walls, packaging and many other surfaces. In GST, stickers are treated as goods and must be billed with the correct HSN code. When you use the right sticker HSN code, GST rate, input tax credit and return filing all stay in sync. In this guide, you will understand how stickers are grouped under HSN, what codes apply to custom stickers and wall stickers, and how the sticker HSN code affects pricing, imports and GST compliance.
HSN Code for Custom Stickers
Custom stickers cover printed brand labels, barcode labels, price stickers and similar items. These can be made from plastic film, paper or special transfer material. The exact material and usage decide the correct HSN code.
In practice, most self adhesive plastic stickers and vinyl labels are classified under the plastics chapter, while paper based stickers fall under the paper chapter. Transfers and decal pictures are covered under the printed media chapter.
Common HSN codes for stickers with their GST rate are given below.
| HSN Code | Product Name | Product Description | GST Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3919 | Plastic self adhesive stickers | Vinyl or plastic self adhesive stickers in rolls or sheets used for labels and wall decoration | 18% |
| 4821 | Paper stickers and labels | Printed paper labels and stickers used on cartons, books and retail packs | 18% |
| 4908 | Transfers and decal pictures | Transfer stickers and decal pictures used on walls, glass, ceramic or other surfaces | 18% |
While creating invoices, you should pick the HSN code that best matches the base material and the way the sticker is supplied. If you sell both plastic vinyl stickers and simple paper labels, you may need to use two separate HSN codes.
HSN Code for Wall Stickers
Wall stickers are often made from soft PVC or vinyl film with self adhesive backing. These products are normally treated as plastic articles with decorative use and are generally covered under the same plastic sticker HSN heading. If the wall sticker is supplied as a transfer picture without a visible plastic base, it can fall under the transfers heading. The GST rate for both plastic based and transfer type wall stickers is usually 18%, unless any special notification gives a lower rate for a specific product
How Stickers Are Classified Under HSN Codes?
Stickers are classified under HSN based on three simple tests. One, what is the main material. Plastic film, paper sheet or special transfer medium. Two, how is the product supplied. In rolls, in sheet form, cut to shape or as small labels. Three, what is the primary use. Product labelling, decoration or transfer printing.
By checking these points, you can map your stickers to the correct HSN code and avoid disputes during GST audit. When classification is clear, the same code can be used in purchase invoices, sale invoices and e way bills.
Can the HSN Code for Stickers Affect Import Price?
Yes, the sticker HSN code can affect customs duty and therefore the landed cost of imported stickers. Basic customs duty, social welfare surcharge and any safeguard duty are all linked with the tariff heading declared in the bill of entry.
If the stickers are wrongly shown under a lower duty heading, the consignment can face reassessment, extra duty and interest. For exporters, the HSN code also drives export benefits and refund of input GST. Because of this, importers and exporters should take extra care while finalising HSN code for stickers.
Conclusion
Sticker HSN classification mainly depends on the material and manner of supply. Plastic self adhesive stickers are normally grouped under the plastics chapter, paper labels under the paper chapter and transfer stickers under the printed media chapter. Once you fix the correct sticker HSN code and GST rate, you can use the same mapping for all sales, purchases and returns so that compliance stays smooth.
I am a Chartered Accountant with 5 years of experience specializing in GST, income tax, and HSN code classification. I help businesses with GST compliance, tax planning, and financial advisory, ensuring they meet regulatory requirements while optimizing their tax strategies. I aim to simplify GST filings, income tax laws, and HSN code classifications, helping professionals and business owners stay informed and compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the HSN code for stickers used on retail packages?
Simple paper stickers and printed labels used on retail packages normally fall under the paper label heading, while plastic self adhesive labels fall under the plastics heading. You should select the exact HSN code based on the material and usage.
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How are custom stickers classified under GST?
Custom stickers are classified in the same way as standard stickers. The fact that the artwork is custom does not change the HSN code. Only the material, form and use matter for classification.
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Are wall stickers taxed differently from small product stickers?
Wall stickers are normally made from plastic film and attract the standard goods GST rate, which is usually 18%. Product stickers may also attract the same rate if they fall under similar headings.
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Can I use a single HSN code for all stickers?
You may use one HSN code if all stickers are of the same material and type. If you sell both plastic vinyl stickers and separate paper labels, it is better to use separate HSN codes for each group.
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Does HSN code for stickers affect import and export pricing?
Yes, customs duty and export benefits are often linked with the HSN code. A correct code ensures that you pay the right duty, claim proper input tax credit and avoid disputes with tax officers.