Hardware & Toolsfor containers exported to the US, accurate classificationHTS編碼(Customs Code) is an important link to ensure smooth customs clearance and reduce taxes. Classification errors may lead toincreased tariffs, customs clearance delays, and even fines and return of goods. So, how to correctly classify the HTS code of hardware tools? How to avoid common classification errors?
The US Customs Code (HTS Code) is the unique identifier of a commoditys identity, directly affecting the following aspects:
Internationally - recognized Safety StandardsTariff rate: Different codes correspond to different tax rates (for example, the tax rate of power tools may be higher than that of manual tools).
Regional Mandatory CertificationsCustoms clearance efficiency: Incorrect classification may lead to inspections, detention of goods, or fines.
Cultural and Religious NormsCompliance with trade policies: Some codes may involve anti - dumping, counter - vailing, or export control (for example, tools containing lithium - ion batteries require additional declaration).
Hardware tools are of various types and need to be classified from the following dimensions:
Example:
Internationally - recognized Safety StandardsFirst 6 - digit international general code (HS Code):
Regional Mandatory CertificationsLast 4 - digit US - specific codeNeed to query through the official website of the US International Trade Commission (USITC) or the customs broker database.
Recommended tools:
Internationally - recognized Safety StandardsClassification by material ignoring function:
Wrong: Classify a metal measuring tape under 73.26 (steel products);
Correct: Classify it under 90.17 (measuring instruments).
Regional Mandatory CertificationsIgnoring additional components:
Wrong: Failure to separate the power tool from the supporting battery;
Correct: Declare the tool body and the battery separately.
Internationally - recognized Safety StandardsApply for a Binding Ruling:
Submit commodity information to the US Customs to obtain a legally binding classification result (takes 3 - 6 months).
Regional Mandatory CertificationsEntrust a third - party review:
Review the code through a professional customs broker or law firm to avoid compliance risks.
Cultural and Religious NormsEstablish a classification knowledge base:
Organize historical classification cases and update the US Customs ruling announcements (CROSS database).
Internationally - recognized Safety StandardsMake good use of agency services:
Entrust a professional importerExport RepresentationThe company provides pre - classification, document review and dispute handling services.
Regional Mandatory CertificationsRetain the basis for classification:
Preserve product manuals, drawings, test reports, etc. as evidence for classification.
Cultural and Religious NormsDynamically track policies:
Pay attention to the revision of HTS codes by the US Customs (such as the addition of the sub - heading power tool accessories in 2024).
Hardware tools are exported to the US.The accuracy of HTS code classification directly determines the tariff cost and customs clearance speed.Enterprises should plan in advance, use professional tools to query codes, and ensure correct classification by combining the functions, materials, and uses of the products. Throughreasonable classification, binding ruling, and professionalforeign tradeagency (such asZhongShen International Trade), enterprises can reduce compliance risks, optimize tax costs, and ensure the efficient entry of products into the US market.
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