| HS Code | Product Description | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8211922000 | Knives with cutting blades, serrated or not (including pruning knives), other than knives of heading 8208, and blades and other base metal parts thereof: Other: Other knives having fixed blades: With rubber or plastic handles: Kitchen and butcher knives | Doc | 0.8¢ each + 4.6%+37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 8208300060 | Knives and cutting blades, for machines or for mechanical appliances, and base metal parts thereof: For kitchen appliances or for machines used by the food industry, and parts thereof Other (including parts) | Doc | 55.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Okay, let's break down the classification and tax implications for your "SANTOKU KNIFE" declaration. You've received two potential HS codes, and it's important to choose the most accurate one to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Here's a detailed analysis:
1. HS Code 8211.92.20.00 – Knives with cutting blades, serrated or not (including pruning knives), other than knives of heading 8208, and blades and other base metal parts thereof: Other: Other knives having fixed blades: With rubber or plastic handles: Kitchen and butcher knives
- 82: Tools, implements, cutlery, hand tools, articles of cutlery, and articles of edge tools. This broadly covers cutting instruments.
- 11: Knives with cutting blades (excluding those specifically for heading 8208).
- 92: Specifically, other knives having fixed blades.
- 20: With rubber or plastic handles.
- 00: Further specification – Kitchen and butcher knives.
Tax Implications (8211.92.20.00):
- Basic Duty: 0.8¢ each. This is a per-piece duty.
- General Tariff: 4.6%
- Additional Tariff: 7.5% (until April 2, 2025)
- Total Tax: 0.8¢ each + 4.6% + 7.5% = 12.1% + 0.8¢ each
- Post April 2, 2025: Additional Tariff increases to 30%, bringing the total to 0.8¢ each + 4.6% + 37.5%
2. HS Code 8208.30.00.60 – Knives and cutting blades, for machines or for mechanical appliances, and base metal parts thereof: For kitchen appliances or for machines used by the food industry, and parts thereof Other (including parts)
- 82: Tools, implements, cutlery, hand tools, articles of cutlery, and articles of edge tools.
- 08: Knives and cutting blades for machines or mechanical appliances.
- 30: For kitchen appliances or machines used in the food industry.
- 00: Further specification – Other (including parts).
- 60: Even more specific detail.
Tax Implications (8208.30.00.60):
- Basic Duty: 0.0%
- General Tariff: 25.0%
- Additional Tariff: 7.5% (until April 2, 2025)
- Total Tax: 25.0% + 7.5% = 32.5%
- Post April 2, 2025: Additional Tariff increases to 30%, bringing the total to 55.0%
Which HS Code is Correct?
The key difference lies in the intended use of the Santoku knife.
- Choose 8211.92.20.00 if: The knife is a standard kitchen knife designed for hand use – a general-purpose cutting tool.
- Choose 8208.30.00.60 if: The knife is specifically designed to be part of a kitchen appliance (e.g., a food processor attachment) or a machine used in the food industry.
Important Recommendations:
- Material Verification: Crucially, confirm the blade material. Some materials might trigger different import regulations or require specific certifications.
- Unit Price: The unit price of the knife can influence customs valuation and potential scrutiny. Be prepared to provide documentation supporting your declared value.
- Handle Material: Double-check the exact composition of the handle. If it's not purely rubber or plastic, HS Code 8211.92.20.00 might not be accurate.
- Certifications: Depending on the destination country, you might need certifications related to food safety (if the knife is intended for food contact) or material composition.
- April 2, 2025 Tariff Changes: Be aware of the upcoming tariff increases. Factor this into your cost calculations.
To help me narrow down the best HS code for you, could you please tell me:
- Is the knife intended for general kitchen use, or is it designed to be part of a machine or appliance?
- What is the primary material of the blade (e.g., stainless steel, carbon steel)?
- What is the exact composition of the handle?
Disclaimer: I am an AI assistant and cannot provide definitive 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.