| HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8208906000 | Knives and cutting blades, for machines or for mechanical appliances, and base metal parts thereof: --> Other: --> Other (including parts) | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8211100000 | Knives with cutting blades, serrated or not (including pruning knives), other than knives of heading 8208, and blades and other base metal parts thereof: --> Sets of assorted articles | Doc | The rate of duty applicable to that article in the set subject t+30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, let's break down the HS codes and tax implications for your "Knives" declaration. Here's a structured analysis to help you understand the classification and potential duties:
Understanding HS Codes – A Quick Primer
HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are internationally standardized codes used to classify traded products. The first 6 digits are generally consistent worldwide, while additional digits are used for more specific categorization by individual countries.
1. HS Code: 8208.90.60.00 – Knives and cutting blades for machines/mechanical appliances
- 82: Chapter 82 – "Tools, implements, cutlery, hand tools, blades, etc." – This broadly covers metal tools.
- 08: Specifically refers to "Knives and cutting blades."
- 90: Further specifies "For machines or for mechanical appliances." This means these aren't general-purpose knives, but designed for use in machinery.
- 60.00: "Other" – This is a residual category for knives within this sub-heading that don't fit into more specific classifications. It includes parts.
Tax Implications (8208.90.60.00):
- Basic Duty: 0.0% – Currently, there is no basic import duty on these knives.
- Additional Duty (Safeguard Duty/Countervailing Duty): 25.0% – There is a 25% additional duty currently in effect.
- Post-April 2, 2025: Additional Duty will increase to 30.0%.
- Total Tax: 55.0% (This is the combined effect of the additional duty. It's important to note this is a current calculation and will change after April 2, 2025).
2. HS Code: 8211.10.00.00 – Knives (other than those of heading 8208) & Sets of assorted articles
- 82: Chapter 82 – Tools, implements, cutlery, hand tools, blades, etc.
- 11: Specifically refers to "Knives with cutting blades."
- 10: "Sets of assorted articles" – This means you are importing a collection of knives (and potentially other items) packaged together as a set.
- 00: Further specifies the set.
Tax Implications (8211.10.00.00):
- Basic Duty: "The rate of duty applicable to that article in the set subject t" – This is a bit complex. The basic duty will be determined by the individual items within the set. You'll need to determine the HS code and duty rate for each item in the set and apply the appropriate rate.
- Additional Duty (Safeguard Duty/Countervailing Duty): 0.0% – Currently, there is no additional duty on these sets.
- Post-April 2, 2025: Additional Duty will increase to 30.0%.
- Total Tax: "The rate of duty applicable to that article in the set subject t+30.0%" – This means the total tax will be the sum of the basic duty (calculated for each item in the set) plus 30%.
Important Considerations & Recommendations:
- Material Verification: The HS code can be affected by the material composition of the knives (e.g., stainless steel, carbon steel). Please verify the exact material composition.
- Single vs. Set: The classification as a "set" (8211.10.00.00) is crucial. If the knives are sold individually, the 8208 code might be more appropriate.
- Valuation: The declared value of the goods is critical for duty calculation. Ensure accurate valuation.
- Certification: Depending on the end-use of the knives, you might need specific certifications (e.g., safety standards, quality control). Please check the import regulations of your destination country.
- Post-April 2, 2025 Changes: Be prepared for the additional duty increase to 30% on both HS codes after April 2, 2025.
- Detailed Set Breakdown (8211.10.00.00): For the set, you must provide a detailed list of all items included, their quantities, and their individual HS codes to accurately calculate the duty.
Disclaimer: I am an AI and this information is for general guidance only. Import regulations are complex and subject to change. It is highly recommended to consult with a licensed customs broker or import specialist in your destination country for accurate and up-to-date information.