HS 420211 Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers
Quick Answer: Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive cases, briefcases, school satchels, and similar containers imported under HS 420211 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.00%, and the US at 8% (MFN). This classification covers rigid or semi-rigid travel goods designed for carrying personal effects. Importers should be aware that the US offers duty-free entry for certain originating countries under specific trade agreements, while others face significantly higher rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based preferential rates for optimal trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4202110000 | — | — | — |
| 4202111000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 4202111090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 4202119010 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 4202111010 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4202111090 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 4202119010 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 4202110000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 4202111000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 4202111010 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42021100 | 8% | Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,IL,JO,KR,MA,NP,OM,P,PA,PE,R,S,SG) 6.4% (1 programs) | — |
| 4202110030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 4202110090 | — | — | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 4202.11?
Imports of Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,IL,JO,KR,MA,NP,OM,P,PA,PE,R,S,SG) 6.4% for CBERA
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 420211 cover?
This subheading covers trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels, and similar containers, specifically those with an outer surface of leather or composition leather. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these items are designed for carrying personal effects, often with a rigid or semi-rigid construction, and are distinguished from simpler bags by their structure and intended use. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing the material and form factor.
What falls outside HS 420211?
The following products are excluded from HS 420211: general-purpose bags and sacks (HS 420292 or 420299), luggage with an outer surface of textile materials (HS 420212), plastic sheeting (HS 3920), or metal (HS 7616). Items that are primarily designed for specific purposes other than carrying personal effects, such as tool bags or specialized equipment cases, would also be classified elsewhere. For instance, a simple drawstring bag made of leather would not fit the "similar containers" definition of this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 420211?
A common error is misinterpreting the "outer surface" requirement, especially when products have mixed materials. General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, which addresses goods put up in sets for retail sale or consisting of mixed materials, must be applied. Importers may incorrectly classify items based on a minor leather component when the predominant outer surface is textile or plastic. Furthermore, confusing "school satchels" with general backpacks or handbags can lead to misclassification under HS 420211 instead of HS 420292.
How should importers classify products under HS 420211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 420211 involves a multi-step analysis. First, determine the primary function of the container, ensuring it aligns with the description of trunks, suitcases, briefcases, or similar items. Second, meticulously examine the outer surface material; it must be leather or composition leather for this subheading. Consult official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for specific notes and definitions. If unsure, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 420211?
A leather briefcase weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $200 USD would attract a US duty of $30.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 15% × $200 USD = $30.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 4202.11.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 420211?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 420211, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required to claim these preferences.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 420211 (trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, etc.)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for goods classified under HS code 420211 generally ranges from 2.00% to 8.00% ad valorem, depending on the importing country's tariff schedule. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is 2.00% ad valorem. Some countries offer preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, under the US HTS, goods from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%) if they meet the rules of origin. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for a suitcase under HS 420211 calculated, using a concrete example?
Import duty is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a U.S. importer brings in 100 suitcases, each valued at $50, the total declared value is $5,000 (100 units * $50/unit). If the applicable MFN duty rate for HS 420211 is 2.00% ad valorem, the calculated duty would be $100 (2.00% * $5,000). Duty = (Rate × Value). In this case, Duty = (0.02 × $5,000) = $100.
What are the key classification criteria for items under HS code 420211, and what differentiates them from other luggage codes?
HS code 420211 specifically covers 'Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers' that are 'Of a kind primarily used for the packing of clothing'. Key criteria include their construction (e.g., rigid or semi-rigid shells, often with frames) and their primary intended use for carrying clothing or personal effects during travel or transit. This distinguishes them from general travel bags (420292) or smaller personal bags (e.g., handbags under 420221). The material of the exterior (leather, plastics, textiles) is also a factor, but the primary function and construction are paramount for this specific heading.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 420211?
Standard import documentation for HS 420211 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed under a Free Trade Agreement. Depending on the importing country and the materials used (e.g., certain leathers or exotic materials), additional documentation related to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) or specific import permits might be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 420211, and how can importers leverage them?
Many trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS 420211. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others, which may provide duty-free entry (0.00%) or reduced rates for eligible goods. The European Union's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) also incorporates preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU has preferential trade agreements. To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure that the goods meet the specific 'rules of origin' defined in the relevant FTA. This typically involves verifying the country of manufacture or the percentage of value added within the partner country. A valid Certificate of Origin is usually required as proof.