Razor Blade
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8203300000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8212200010 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8212200005 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8209000030 | 39.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8212100000 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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βοΈ Razor Blades & Shavers (Global Trade Classification Guide)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Importing Blades or Machines?
"Razor Blade" is a broad term in international trade. In customs classification, the distinction between standalone blades (replaceable inserts) and shaving appliances (handles or electric devices) is critical. Misclassification can lead to significant tariff differences and customs delays.
In international trade, these goods are primarily categorized into two groups:
1. Manual Razor Blades (Manual Insertions):
- Single-edged blades: Typically used with safety razors.
- Double-edged/Cartridge blades: Multi-blade systems for safety razors.
- Material: Almost exclusively metal (stainless steel, carbon steel).
- Key Feature: Non-motorized, intended for replacement in manual handles.
2. Electric Shavers (Motorized Appliances):
- Electric Razor: Devices powered by batteries or mains electricity.
- Key Feature: Contains motors, circuitry, and housings.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If it is a metal insert meant to be placed into a handle β Classify under Chapter 82 (Tools/Blades).
- If it is a standalone electric device β Classify under Chapter 85 (Electrical Machinery).
- Do not confuse "replaceable blades" with "whole shaver units."
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
Based on the provided data, here is the precise breakdown for Razor-related products:
| HS Code | Product Description | Classification Logic & Applicability |
|---|---|---|
8203.30.00.00 |
Razor Blades (Metal, General) | Logic: Material is metal; function matches metal cutters/scissors. Use Case: Generic metal razor blades not specifically categorized as "single-edged safety blades" elsewhere. |
8212.10.00.00 |
Razors (Complete) | Logic: Name matches "Razors" in Explanatory Notes. Use Case: Complete manual razors (handles + blades attached) or razors not fitting other specific blade codes. |
8510.10.00.00 |
Electric Shavers | Logic: Name matches "Electric Shavers"; no material/shape conflict. Use Case: Any battery-powered or plug-in shaver device. |
8212.20.00.10 |
Replaceable Razor Blades | Logic: Matches "Other" category for replaceable blades; common sense infers safety razor blade context. Use Case: Multi-blade cartridge replacements, generic replaceable inserts. |
8212.20.00.05 |
Single-Edged Razor Blades | Logic: "Blade" morphology matches "Single-edged"; metal material fits "used for shaving faces." Use Case: Traditional safety razor blades (single blade per insert). |
8209.00.00.30 |
Razor Blades (Parts/Components) | Logic: Inferred as "tip/component of a tool." Default inclination for "parts" when material is unspecified or ambiguous. Use Case: Ambiguous blade components or parts of shaving tools where exact subtype is unclear. |
π Key Reminder:
-8510.10.00.00is for Electric devices. If it has a motor, it does NOT go to Chapter 82. - Chapter 82 Codes (8203,8212) are for Manual/Metal blades and razors. -8212.20is the primary bucket for Replaceable Blades. Distinguish between Single-Edged (05) and Other/Cartridge (10) based on design.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Duties & Policies)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (for subsequent imports)
π― 1. 8203.30.00.00 ββ General Metal Razor Blades
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty | +10.0% (Section 122, targeting China/HK products) |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High risk of seizure/audit) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 0% β Section 301: 25% β IEEPA: 10% |
π Explanation:
- This code attracts the highest combined surcharge (35%) among blade categories due to the 25% Section 301 tariff. - Despite being a "tool," it is heavily taxed due to its origin and metal nature.
π― 2. 8212.10.00.00 ββ Complete Manual Razors
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 0% β Section 301: 7.5% β IEEPA: 10% |
π Note:
- "Complete Razors" face a lower Section 301 rate (7.5%) compared to general metal cutters (25%). - This makes8212.10.00.00a more tax-efficient classification for complete manual razor units compared to8203.30.00.00.
π― 3. 8510.10.00.00 ββ Electric Shavers
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 0% β Section 301: 7.5% β IEEPA: 10% |
π Critical Note:
- Electric Shavers share the same 17.5% total rate as complete manual razors. - Do not confuse with blades! Electric shavers are Chapter 85, not Chapter 82. - If you import only blades for electric shavers, they might fall under8212or8510.90(parts), but8510.10is for the device itself.
π― 4. 8212.20.00.10 & 8212.20.00.05 ββ Replaceable Razor Blades
| HS Code | Product Type | Total Tax Rate | Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|
8212.20.00.10 |
Replaceable Blades (Other/Cartridge) | 17.5% | Base: 0% + Sec 301: 7.5% + IEEPA: 10% |
8212.20.00.05 |
Single-Edged Razor Blades | 17.5% | Base: 0% + Sec 301: 7.5% + IEEPA: 10% |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 17.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
π Optimization Tip:
- Replaceable blades (both single-edged and cartridge types) enjoy a lower Section 301 rate (7.5%) compared to general metal blades (8203.30). - This results in a total tax of only 17.5%, significantly cheaper than the 35% for8203.30.00.00. - Ensure your description clearly states "Replaceable Razor Blades" to qualify for8212.20rather than the generic8203.30.
π― 5. 8209.00.00.30 ββ Razor Blades (Parts/Components Ambiguous)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 4.6% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 39.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 4.6% + Sec 301: 25% + IEEPA: 10% |
π Warning:
- This code carries the highest total tax (39.6%). - It applies when the blade is considered a "part/component" and the material/subtype is not clearly defined as a standard razor blade. - Avoid this classification if possible. Clearly define the product as "Razor Blades" (8212) to benefit from the lower 17.5% rate.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Essential Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must specify: Single-edged vs. Multi-blade, Material (Stainless Steel), Usage (Face shaving). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the blade edge, packaging, and any branding. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Description must match HS Code exactly (e.g., "Single-Edged Razor Blades" vs. "Metal Blades"). |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions for tariff valuation. |
| β Origin Certificate | β Optional | If eligible for other trade agreements (rare for US/China), but helpful for proof of origin. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantras)
π₯ βDefine the Type, Avoid βMetalβ, Claim βReplaceableβ!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Risk of Wrong Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Edged Blades | "Single-Edged Razor Blades, Metal, for Manual Safety Razors" | If declared as "Metal Blades" β 35-39.6% |
| Cartridge Blades | "Replaceable Razor Blades, Multi-Blade Cartridge, for Electric/Manual Use" | If declared as "Parts of Shavers" β 17.5% (OK) but risk of audit. |
| Electric Shaver | "Electric Shaver, Rechargeable, Model XYZ" | If declared as "Blades" β Seizure/Fraud |
| Complete Manual Razor | "Manual Safety Razor, Stainless Steel, Handle with Blade" | If declared as "Blades Only" β Undervaluation |
β 3. Special Situations & Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label Blades | Provide authorization letter. Do not declare as generic to avoid anti-dumping scrutiny. |
| Blades with Lubricating Strips | Still classifiable as 8212.20. The strip is incidental to the blade function. |
| Blades for Electric Shavers | If they are specific foil heads or cutter blocks for electric shavers, they may fall under 8510.90 (Parts). Check if 8212 applies only to manual razor blades. |
| Sample Shipments | Even for samples, De Minimis does NOT apply for Chinese-origin goods in this category due to high tariffs. Pay duties upfront. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Overview)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Est. Total Tax (China Origin) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8212.20.00.05/10 |
17.5% | Section 301 + IEEPA applies. |
| π¨π³ China | 8212.20 |
Low (5-9%) | No Section 301. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8212.20 |
4-6% | Standard duty, no extra surcharges. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8212.20 |
4-6% | Post-Brexit standard rates. |
π Conclusion:
- The US is the most expensive market for razor blades due to Section 301 and IEEPA tariffs. - Proper classification is key: Using8212.20(17.5%) instead of8203.30(35%) or8209.00(39.6%) saves up to 22% in duties.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Razor Blades" as "Metal Cutting Tools" (8203.30)
π Consequence: Tax jumps from 17.5% to 35%.
π‘ Fix: Always specify "Razor Blade" and "Single-Edged" or "Cartridge" in the description.
β Mistake 2: Declaring "Electric Shaver Heads" as "Manual Razor Blades"
π Consequence: Customs may reject or reclassify to parts (8510.90), causing delays.
π‘ Fix: If for electric shavers, check if it's a "Part of Electric Shaver" or "Razor Blade." Usually, specific electric shaver components are parts.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring IEEPA 10% Surcharge
π Consequence: Underpayment of duties, penalties, and hold-ups.
π‘ Fix: Always calculate Base + Sec 301 + IEEPA for China-origin goods.
β Mistake 4: Using Generic "Blades" in Description
π Consequence: Ambiguity leads to assignment of 8209.00.00.30 (39.6%).
π‘ Fix: Be specific: "Replaceable Stainless Steel Razor Blades."
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Replaceable Single-Edged Razor Blades, Stainless Steel, for Manual Safety Razors, Brand XYZ, Model A1"
β HS Code:8212.20.00.05
β Tax: 17.5%
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision Pays Off!
π― Remember the Golden Rule:
πΉ "Replaceable = 8212 (17.5%) vs. Generic Metal = 8203/8209 (35-39.6%)"
πΉ "Electric = 8510 (17.5%) vs. Manual = 82xx"
πΉ "China Origin = 10% IEEPA + 7.5% Sec 301 for Blades"
π Pro Tip:
If your Electric Shaver Heads are not strictly "razor blades" but "components," verify if they fit 8510.90 (Parts of Electric Shavers). Sometimes parts have different tariff treatments. However, for the data provided, 8212.20 is the optimized path for blade-like products.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Engage a Customs Broker
π Provide Detailed Specs (Single vs. Multi-edged)
β Apply for Advance Ruling if volume is high
π Optimize your HS Code to8212.20to Save 17-22% in Duties!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Margins Depend on These 7.5%!
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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.