3 digit Trolley Case Combination Lock Blue
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π Trolley Case Combination Lock Blue (3-Digit)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Combination Locks"?
A 3-Digit Trolley Case Combination Lock is a security device specifically designed for luggage, suitcases, and travel cases. It uses a mechanical rotating dial system to verify a 3-digit code. In international trade, classification depends heavily on whether the lock is imported as an assembly (complete unit with shackle/box) or as separate parts (pins, springs, dials).
Key Distinction: * Complete Lock Assembly: A self-contained unit ready to install on a suitcase. β Chapter 83. * Parts of Locks: Individual components like springs, pins, or uninstalled dial mechanisms. β Chapter 83 (Parts) or Chapter 90 (if precision instruments, but rare for luggage). * Blue Color: This is a descriptive feature, not a classification criterion. It does not affect the HS Code.
β οΈ Critical Clarification:
- If the item is a finished locking mechanism (box + shackle + dials) β 8301.40.
- If it is just the internal mechanism without the casing/shackle β 8301.40 (Parts).
- Do NOT classify under Chapter 90 (Optical/Photographic) or Chapter 94 (Furniture). Luggage locks are base metal articles.
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
8301.40.00.00 |
Padlocks and locks (other than locks of heading 91.01 or 91.06), of base metal | Standard luggage locks, trolley case locks, safe locks | Mechanical, base metal (zinc alloy, brass, steel) |
8301.40.00.00 (Parts) |
Parts of padlocks and locks of base metal | Spare dials, springs, pins for lock repair | Separate components, not a complete lock |
π Key Reminder:
- The vast majority of 3-digit combination locks for trolleys fall under8301.40.00.00.
- The "Blue" color is cosmetic and does not change the HS Code.
- If the lock is electronic (e.g., with a circuit board, battery, LED), it may fall under8531.90or8543.70, but a standard mechanical 3-digit lock is8301.40.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 8301.40.00.00 ββ Mechanical Locks (Base Metal)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | None (General Section 301 does not typically apply to standard base metal locks unless specifically listed under "Small Arms" or "Security Equipment," but standard luggage locks are generally exempt from the 25% tariff under Section 301, please verify latest exclusions). |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +7.5% (Under Executive Order 14117, Section 301 rates for some items were modified; however, standard mechanical locks often remain at 0% or low rates. Note: As of 2026, check specific exclusion lists for base metal articles). |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0% - 7.5% (Likely 0% for standard mechanical luggage locks) |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% (or 7.5% if subject to IEEPA) |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (if value < $800) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:8301.40.00.00 β USITC:General |
π Explanation:
- Standard mechanical combination locks for luggage are typically classified under8301.40.
- Unlike electronics or steel products, mechanical locks are not heavily targeted by the 25% Section 301 tariff.
- IEEPA Surcharge: As of 2026, some base metal articles may face a 7.5% surcharge under IEEPA, but many mechanical accessories remain exempt. Always verify the latest IEEPA footnote for HS Code 8301.40.
- If the lock is electronic (with a keypad and battery), it may fall under8531.90.90or8543.70, which could attract 7.5% IEEPA surcharge.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Proven Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Must-Have Documents)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Mechanical 3-Digit Combination Lock," "Base Metal," "No Battery." |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the lock installed on a trolley case, close-up of dials, shackle, and mechanism. |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm material: Zinc Alloy, Brass, or Steel. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe as "Luggage Lock, Mechanical, 3-Digit, Base Metal." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βMechanical Lock, Base Metal, No Circuit, 8301 Rule!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 3-Digit Lock | 8301.40.00.00 β "Mechanical Lock, Base Metal" |
Declare as "Electronics" β 7.5%+ |
| Electronic Lock (with Battery) | 8531.90 or 8543.70 |
Declare as "Mechanical" β Risk of misclassification |
| Lock Parts (Springs, Pins) | 8301.40.00.00 (Parts) |
Declare as "Accessories" β Unclear |
| Blue Color Mentioned | Include in description but not HS Code | Assume color changes duty β No |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Locks | Provide design drawings to confirm no electronic components. |
| Lock with TSA Keyway | Still classified as 8301.40. TSA approval is a regulatory compliance issue, not a tariff issue. |
| Electronic Combination Lock | Must declare as Chapter 85 (Electrical). May be subject to 7.5% IEEPA surcharge. |
| High-Value Security Locks | If made of precious metals (e.g., silver), classify under Chapter 71. Unlikely for trolley cases. |
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8301.40.00.00 |
0% (likely) | No specific certification | Verify IEEPA status |
| π¨π³ China | 8301.40.00.00 |
0% | None | No additional surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8301.40.00.00 |
0% | CE (if electronic) | Mechanical locks are duty-free |
| π¬π§ UK | 8301.40.00.00 |
0% | None | Post-Brexit tariff: 0% |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8301.40.00.00 |
0% | PSE (if electronic) | Mechanical locks are duty-free |
π Conclusion:
- Mechanical luggage locks enjoy 0% duty in most major markets.
- The US is the only market to watch for IEEPA surcharges, but mechanical locks are generally exempt or low-rate.
- Electronic locks face higher duties and certification requirements (FCC, CE).
π Part 6: Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring a mechanical lock as "Electronics"
π Consequence: Unnecessary 7.5% IEEPA surcharge + FCC certification requirements.
β Error 2: Using "TSA Lock" as the HS Code basis
π Consequence: TSA is a regulatory standard, not a tariff category. Still 8301.40.
β Error 3: Missing "Base Metal" in description
π Consequence: Customs may ask for clarification, causing delays.
β Error 4: Ignoring Electronic Components
π Consequence: If the lock has a battery or LED, declaring it as mechanical is fraud. Must declare under Chapter 85.
β Correct Approach:
βMechanical 3-Digit Combination Lock, Base Metal (Zinc Alloy), Blue Color, for Luggage, No Battery, No Circuit Boardβ
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ βMechanical Lock, Base Metal, 8301, Duty-Free!β
πΉ βElectronic Lock, Chapter 85, IEEPA 7.5%!β
πΉ βTSA is Compliance, Not Tariff!β
π Pro Tip:
If your lock is mechanical, you are safe from most surcharges. If it is electronic, prepare for FCC certification and 7.5% IEEPA surcharge.
Always declare the material and mechanism type clearly.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Confirm with your supplier: βIs this lock mechanical or electronic?β
π Provide clear photos and specification sheets to your customs broker.
π Ensure smooth clearance with accurate8301.40.00.00declaration.
β¨ Professional clearance starts with precise classification!
πΌ Your every penny is worth being calculated accurately!
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About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.