## Common ground
All options are letter boxes used for sorting letters, differing only in material.
## Options at a glance
**3926.10 – Plastic**
- **Defining trait:** Made from synthetic polymer materials, typically durable and weather-resistant.
- **Typical examples:** Household mailboxes, outdoor post boxes with plastic casing.
- **Best fit when:** The box is lightweight, molded, and designed for outdoor or high-use environments.
**4420.90 – Wood, marquetry or inlaid wood**
- **Defining trait:** Constructed from natural wood, often with decorative surface work like inlays.
- **Typical examples:** Antique-style mailboxes, custom-made wooden boxes for offices or homes.
- **Best fit when:** The box has a traditional, aesthetic appearance and is made from solid or layered wood.
**4819.60 – Paper or paperboard**
- **Defining trait:** Made from thin, lightweight, non-durable paper-based materials.
- **Typical examples:** Temporary mail slots, disposable sorting trays, promotional display boxes.
- **Best fit when:** The box is short-term use, low-cost, or part of a temporary setup.
**8304.00 – Base metal**
- **Defining trait:** Constructed from iron, steel, or other non-precious metals, often with a robust build.
- **Typical examples:** Heavy-duty postal boxes, industrial sorting units, security-grade mail receptacles.
- **Best fit when:** The box needs strength, durability, and resistance to tampering or damage.
## Key differences
| Option | Material Type | Durability | Aesthetic Use | Common Environment |
|-------|----------------|------------|----------------|---------------------|
| 3926.10 | Plastic | Medium-high | Minimalist | Indoor/outdoor |
| 4420.90 | Wood | Medium | High (decorative) | Home/office |
| 4819.60 | Paperboard | Low | Low | Temporary |
| 8304.00 | Base metal | High | Functional | Industrial/security |
## How to choose
- Is the box made of plastic? → 3926.10
- Is it made of wood with visible grain or inlay? → 4420.90
- Is it thin, flimsy, and likely disposable? → 4819.60
- Is it metal, heavy, and built for long-term use? → 8304.00
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A box could be made of wood with plastic parts (e.g., a wooden frame with plastic insert), but the main material determines classification. If unsure, prioritize the dominant structural material. No option is vague—each clearly defines a distinct material type