HS 420219 Other

HS code 420219 covers 'Other trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, briefcases, school satchels, spectacle cases, binocular cases, camera cases, musical instrument cases, gun cases, tool boxes, tool bags and similar containers, of leather or of composition leather, of sheeting of plastics, of textile materials, of vulcanised fibre or of hard paper, or predominantly of these materials or of cardboard, other than those of subheading 4202.11.' The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate can vary significantly by country. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule may list rates such as 2.00% or 4.00% ad valorem. However, many trade agreements offer reduced or free entry. For instance, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), Mexico (MX), Singapore (SG), and others may benefit from preferential rates, often listed as 'Free'. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the rules of origin for the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.

HS code 420219 is an 'Other' category, meaning it applies to trunks, suitcases, briefcases, and similar containers described in the heading that are not specifically classified under other subheadings of 4202. The primary classification criteria are the type of container (e.g., trunk, suitcase, briefcase), its primary material (leather, composition leather, plastic sheeting, textile materials, vulcanized fibre, hard paper, or predominantly these materials/cardboard), and its construction. Crucially, 420219 is for items other than those specifically covered by 4202.11 (which often refers to those with an outer surface of leather or composition leather). Importers must carefully examine the product's construction, materials, and intended use to ensure it doesn't fit a more specific HS code, such as those for handbags (4202.2x) or travel bags (4202.9x).

Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 420219 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. If preferential duty rates are claimed under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin on the commercial invoice, compliant with the specific FTA's requirements, will be mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional documents like a safety data sheet (SDS) or specific product certifications might be requested. Importers and customs brokers should always verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.

The import duty for HS code 420219 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for a specific country is 3.5% ad valorem, and an importer brings in 100 suitcases with a declared customs value of $50 each, the total customs value would be 100 units * $50/unit = $5,000. The import duty would then be calculated as 3.5% of $5,000, which equals $175. (Calculation: $5,000 × 0.035 = $175). Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise duty calculation method.

Several major trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 420219. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) can provide preferential rates for goods originating from Mexico and Canada. The EU's TARIC system reflects duties within the European Union, often influenced by agreements with countries like the UK (post-Brexit), Switzerland, and various ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific) countries. The UK Trade Tariff will show rates influenced by its own trade deals, such as those with the EU, Australia, and Japan. The WCO (World Customs Organization) provides the foundational HS nomenclature, but specific duty rates and preferential treatments are dictated by bilateral and regional trade agreements. Importers should always investigate agreements relevant to their specific origin and destination countries, such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) or individual Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).