Shrubbers
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8203300000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8213006000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8213003000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8214909000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8203206060 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
πΏ Shrubbers (Garden Shears & Hedge Clippers)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "Shrubber"?
In the context of international trade, "Shrubbers" generally refer to manual or powered gardening tools used for trimming, pruning, or shaping shrubs and hedges. However, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the classification depends heavily on the specific type of blade, handle mechanism, and material composition.
The key distinction lies between: 1. Metal Cutting Shears (Scissors-like): Often classified under heading 8203 if primarily used for cutting metal or generic "similar tools," though rare for gardening. 2. Pruning Shears/Hedge Shears (8213/8214): These are the most common for "shrubbing." They include secateurs, loppers, and hedge trimmers (manual). 3. Powered Hedge Trimmers: If electric or gas-powered, they fall under different headings (e.g., 8467), but the prompt's data focuses on manual metal tools.
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If the tool is a pair of scissors-like shears for general use β 8213.00
- If it is a specialized pruning shear with specific metal composition/features β 8203.30 or 8203.20
- If it is a blade/knife type (e.g., single-blade hedge trimmer blade) β 8214.90
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Authoritative Reference)
Based on the provided <DATA>, here are the relevant HS Codes for "Shrubbers" (garden shears/pruning tools):
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicability | Why It Fits Shrubbers |
|---|---|---|---|
8203.30.00.00 |
Shears and similar tools for cutting metal or similar tools | General metal-cutting shears | If the shrubber is a heavy-duty metal-cutting style shear (less common for plants, more for wire/fencing), it fits here. |
8213.00.60.00 |
Scissors, dressmaker's shears and similar shears | Exact Match | Most standard pruning shears (secateurs) and hedge shears are classified here as "similar shears." |
8213.00.30.00 |
Scissors, dressmaker's shears and similar shears | Consistent Category | Another sub-category for garden shears/pruners with slightly different specifications (e.g., blade curvature). |
8214.90.90.00 |
Other articles of cutlery | Tool Use | If the shrubber is considered a blade/knife type (e.g., a single-blade trimmer) rather than double-bladed shears, it falls here. |
8203.20.60.60 |
Metal cutting shears | Manual Tools | Specifically for metal-cutting shears. If your "shrubber" is a metal shear used in gardening (e.g., cutting wire ties), use this. |
π Key Reminder:
- Most garden pruning shears go to 8213.00 (60 or 30).
- If it's a knife/blade trimmer, go to 8214.90.
- If it's for cutting metal (wire/fencing) in the garden, go to 8203.
- Do not classify powered electric hedge trimmers here (they are 8467). This data applies to manual metal tools.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 8203.30.00.00 ββ Shears and Similar Tools (Metal Cutting Type)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8203.30.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- 35% Total Tax: This is a high tariff rate due to the 25% Section 301 duty and 10% IEEPA duty.
- Why this code? Used if the shrubber is classified as a general "shear" not specifically for dressing/crafting.
π― 2. 8213.00.60.00 ββ Scissors, Dressmakerβs Shears, and Similar Shears
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 8Β’ each + 8% (Specific + Ad Valorem) |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 8Β’/unit + 18% (8% base + 10% IEEPA) |
| Tax Calculation | (8Β’ Γ Quantity) + (CIF Value Γ 18%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8213.00.60.00 β FOOTNOTE:122 |
π Explanation:
- Mixed Tariff: Includes a specific duty (8Β’ per unit) and an ad valorem duty (18% total).
- Why this code? Most common for pruning shears and hedge shears that resemble scissors or dressmaker shears.
π― 3. 8213.00.30.00 ββ Scissors, Dressmakerβs Shears, and Similar Shears (Other)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 1.7Β’ each + 4.3% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 1.7Β’/unit + 14.3% (4.3% base + 10% IEEPA) |
| Tax Calculation | (1.7Β’ Γ Quantity) + (CIF Value Γ 14.3%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8213.00.30.00 β FOOTNOTE:122 |
π Explanation:
- Lower Ad Valorem: 14.3% total ad valorem + small specific duty.
- Why this code? For pruning shears with different blade specifications or non-dressmaker style but still under heading 8213.
π― 4. 8214.90.90.00 ββ Other Articles of Cutlery
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 1.4Β’ each + 3.2% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 1.4Β’/unit + 13.2% (3.2% base + 10% IEEPA) |
| Tax Calculation | (1.4Β’ Γ Quantity) + (CIF Value Γ 13.2%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8214.90.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:122 |
π Explanation:
- Lowest Ad Valorem: 13.2% total if classified as "other cutlery" (e.g., single-blade trimmers).
- Why this code? If the shrubber is a blade-type tool rather than double-bladed shears.
π― 5. 8203.20.60.60 ββ Metal Cutting Shears (Manual Tools)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 12Β’ per dozen + 5.5% |
| Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Tariff (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 12Β’/doz. + 40.5% (5.5% base + 25% + 10%) |
| Tax Calculation | (12Β’ Γ Qty/12) + (CIF Value Γ 40.5%) |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:8203.20.60.60 β FOOTNOTE:301 β FOOTNOTE:122 |
π Explanation:
- Highest Total Tax: 40.5% ad valorem + specific duty.
- Why this code? Only if the shrubber is explicitly a metal-cutting shear (e.g., for cutting wire, not plants).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (All Required)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Include blade material (stainless steel, carbon steel), handle type, intended use (garden, metal, etc.). |
| β Product Photos (With Labels) | βοΈ | Show the entire tool, brand, model number, and any "Made in China" labels. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Garden Shears" or "Pruning Shears", NOT generic "Tools" or "Metal Cutters" unless intended. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Specify quantity per carton, weight, and dimensions. |
| β Origin Certificate (if applicable) | βοΈ | If not from China, to claim preferential rates (not applicable here as rates are for China). |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Confirm no wooden parts (if wood is present, different HS may apply). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βBlade Type Determines Code: Double-Bladed = 8213, Single-Blade = 8214, Metal-Cut = 8203.β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Practice | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard pruning shears (secateurs) | 8213.00.30.00 or 60.00 |
Declare as "Metal Cutter" β 40.5% + 12Β’/doz | Overpay taxes! |
| Hedge shears (long blades) | 8213.00.30.00 |
Declare as "Cutlery" β 13.2% + 1.4Β’ | Underpay? No, 13.2% is lower than 18%, but check specificity. |
| Single-blade hedge trimmer | 8214.90.90.00 |
Declare as "Shears" β 18% + 8Β’ | Overpay! |
| Wire-cutting shears | 8203.30.00.00 or 20.60.60 |
Declare as "Garden Shears" β 14.3% | Underpay if itβs actually metal-cutting! |
β 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Powered Hedge Trimmers | β Do not use these HS Codes. They belong to 8467.21.00 (Electric) or 8467.89.00 (Gas). |
| Garden Shears with Wooden Handles | Still classified under 8213 if the blade is metal and determines the essential character. |
| Sets of Garden Shears | Declare as a set if sold together. The classification follows the item that gives the set its essential character (usually the largest shear). |
| OEM/Private Label | Ensure the commercial invoice lists the actual manufacturer or "OEM for [Brand]" to avoid origin disputes. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8213.00.30.00 |
14.3% + 1.7Β’/unit | None | Most cost-effective for garden shears. |
| π¨π³ China | 8213.00.30.00 |
5% | CCC (if applicable) | Low import duty. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8213.00.30.00 |
4.5% | CE (if applicable) | No Section 301/IEEPA. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8213.00.30.00 |
5% | RCM | No surcharges. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 8213.00.30.00 |
5.9% | PSE (if electrical) | No surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the highest-cost market due to Section 301 and IEEPA surcharges.
- Choose8213.00.30.00or8213.00.60.00for standard garden shears to minimize tax burden in the US.
- Avoid8203.20.60.60(40.5%) unless itβs explicitly for cutting metal.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying all garden shears under 8203.30 (35%)
π Result: Overpaying ~15-20% in tariffs.
Fix: Use 8213 codes for pruning/shearing tools.
β Mistake 2: Declaring powered hedge trimmers under 8213
π Result: Customs rejection, delay, or reclassification to 8467 with different duties.
Fix: Identify if itβs electric/gas β Use 8467.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring IEEPA 10% Surcharge
π Result: Underestimating landed cost.
Fix: Always add 10% to ad valorem rates for China-origin goods (unless exempted).
β Mistake 4: Using "Scissors" as a generic term
π Result: Ambiguity in customs inspection.
Fix: Use precise terms: "Pruning Shears," "Hedge Clippers," "Secateurs."
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Declaration, Lower Taxes!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Garden Shears = 8213 (Lowest Tax)"
πΉ "Metal Cutters = 8203 (Highest Tax)"
πΉ "Blades = 8214 (Middle Tax)"
πΉ "Powered = 8467 (Not Covered Here)"
π Pro Tip:
If your shrubber is exported to the USA from China, the IEEPA 10% surcharge applies to all codes above. Total tax will range from 14.3% to 40.5%.
- Best Option:8213.00.30.00(14.3% + 1.7Β’)
- Avoid:8203.20.60.60(40.5% + 12Β’/doz)
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker to confirm if your specific "shrubber" model fits
8213.00.30.00or8213.00.60.00.
π Accurate Classification Saves Money!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar Saved is Profit Earned!
Customer Reviews
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.