| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8423810050 | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
HANGING SCALE - HS Code Classification & Import Guidance
Based on the provided information, let's break down the classification and import considerations for your "HANGING SCALE" product.
1. Understanding the Provided Information
You've submitted a product description ("Hand-operated mechanical appliances, weighing 10 kg or less, used in the preparation, conditioning or serving of food or drink, and base metal parts thereof") and a potential HS Code: 8423.81.00.50. This HS Code is associated with a total tax rate of 55.0%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 25.0% (increasing to 30% after April 2nd, 2025) additional tariff.
2. HS Code Breakdown (8423.81.00.50)
Let's dissect this HS Code to understand why it's relevant and what it covers. HS Codes are a standardized system, and each set of digits has a specific meaning:
- 84: Chapter 84 – Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof. This broadly covers a wide range of mechanical devices.
- 8423: Heading 8423 – Weighing machinery (excluding balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better). This narrows it down to weighing equipment. Crucially, it excludes very precise balances.
- 8423.81: Subheading 8423.81 – Other weighing machinery: Having a maximum weighing capacity not exceeding
30 kg . This specifies "other" weighing machinery, and importantly, limits the capacity to 30 kg or less. - 8423.81.00: Further specifies the type of weighing machinery.
- 8423.81.00.50: The most specific code, likely denoting a particular type or application within the 30kg capacity range.
3. Is 8423.81.00.50 the Correct Code?
Based on your product description ("Hand-operated mechanical appliances, weighing 10 kg or less..."), 8423.81.00.50 appears to be a suitable HS Code. However, it's critical to confirm this. Here's why:
- Hand-operated vs. Electronic: The description specifies "hand-operated." If your scales are electronic, a different HS Code might be more appropriate (potentially within 8423.82).
- Functionality: The description mentions use in "preparation, conditioning or serving of food or drink." If the scales are used for industrial weighing (e.g., in a factory), a different code might apply.
- Precision: Ensure the scales do not have a sensitivity of 5 cg or better. If they do, they fall outside of Heading 8423 and require a different classification.
4. Tax Implications (Current & Future)
- Current Tax Rate: 55.0% (0.0% base tariff + 25.0% additional tariff).
- Important Change (April 2nd, 2025): The additional tariff will increase to 30.0%, raising the total tax rate to 30.0%. Factor this into your cost calculations if importing after this date.
5. Key Considerations & Recommendations
- Material Composition: The base metal parts are relevant. The specific metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum) might influence import regulations.
- Single Declaration: Ensure the declaration accurately reflects the complete product, including all components.
- Certification: Depending on the intended use (especially if food-related), you may need certifications like CE marking (for European markets) or relevant food safety certifications. Please verify the specific requirements for your destination country.
- Invoice Details: The commercial invoice should clearly state the product's function, materials, and maximum weighing capacity.
- Customs Ruling (Highly Recommended): For absolute certainty, consider obtaining a binding customs ruling from the import country's customs authority. This provides legal confirmation of the correct HS Code and tax rate.
- Check for Trade Agreements: Your country of origin (CN) may have trade agreements with the destination country that could reduce or eliminate tariffs. Investigate any applicable agreements.
Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive legal or customs advice. This information is for general guidance only. Always consult with a qualified customs broker or import specialist for accurate and up-to-date regulations specific to your situation.