HS 420229 Other
Quick Answer: Handbags imported under HS 420229 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.70%, and the US at rates ranging from 5.3% ad valorem to 80% ad valorem, with numerous preferential rates available. This residual category encompasses handbags and similar articles, primarily designed for carrying personal items, that do not fit into more specific classifications within heading 4202. Significant trade considerations include the varying MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rates across major markets and the availability of preferential duty rates in the US for goods originating from specific trade partners. Importers and customs brokers should consult detailed tariff schedules, such as those aggregated by CustomTariffs, to confirm the precise classification and applicable duty for their specific goods, as well as any potential trade agreements that may offer reduced or zero duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4202290000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4202290000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4202291000 | 5.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 420229 | — | — | — |
| 4202292000 | 3.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 4202295000 | 7.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 4202299000 | 20% | Free (AU,BH,CL,CO,D,IL,JO,KR,MA,NP,OM,P,PA,PE,R,S,SG) 17.5% (1 programs) | ["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 4202.29?
Imports of Other 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 (AU,BH,CL,CO,D,IL,JO,KR,MA,NP,OM,P,PA,PE,R,S,SG) 17.5% for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
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.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 420229 cover?
This subheading covers handbags and clutch purses, not specifically enumerated elsewhere within heading 4202, which are designed to be carried by hand. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes items primarily made of leather, composition leather, or plastic sheeting, often featuring closures like zippers or clasps, and intended for personal use to carry small items. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing their function as personal accessories.
What falls outside HS 420229?
The following products are excluded from HS 420229: luggage (4202.1x), briefcases and similar cases (4202.2x), toilet bags (4202.9x), and articles of apparel and clothing accessories of leather or composition leather (Chapter 42, but not specifically bags). For instance, a small pouch intended to hold coins, if lacking the structure and design of a handbag, might be classified elsewhere, and a travel duffel bag, regardless of material, falls under 4202.1x.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 420229?
A common error is misinterpreting the primary material or intended use. For example, classifying a backpack designed for carrying books as a handbag, or vice versa, is incorrect. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 3(b) states that mixtures or composite goods shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may also incorrectly classify items made from textiles with leather trim under this heading when they should be classified as textile bags under Chapter 63.
How should importers classify products under HS 420229?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 420229 involves a multi-step approach. First, determine the primary material of the article. Second, ascertain its intended use and design, specifically if it functions as a handbag or clutch purse. Consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, for detailed definitions and guidance. If ambiguity remains, consider the essential character of the item as per GIR 3(b).
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 420229?
A women's leather clutch purse weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $7.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($150 USD × 0.05 = $7.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 4202.29.10.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 420229?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 420229, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a "Free" duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or "Free" rates for goods from certain developing countries. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 420229?
HS code 420229 covers 'Other' handbags, clutch and pocket wallets, and similar items, not made of leather or composition leather, nor of textile materials, nor of vulcanized fiber, nor of paper. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the US is typically 3.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free under specific trade agreements. Always verify the specific origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements to determine the correct duty.
How is the import duty for HS 420229 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS 420229 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of handbags classified under 420229 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable MFN duty rate is 3.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (customs value) × 0.0370 (duty rate) = $370.00. If the goods qualify for a preferential rate, such as duty-free (0%), the duty amount would be $0.00. It is crucial to ensure the correct customs value is declared, as this forms the basis for duty calculation.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure goods are correctly classified under HS 420229?
To ensure correct classification under HS 420229, importers and customs brokers must verify that the goods are 'handbags, clutch and pocket wallets, and similar items' and that they are NOT primarily made of leather, composition leather, textile materials, vulcanized fiber, or paper. This code is a residual category for items that fit the general description but do not meet the specific material exclusions of other headings within Chapter 42. For example, a plastic handbag or a synthetic leather clutch wallet (where the synthetic leather is not considered 'composition leather' under customs definitions) would likely fall under 420229 if it doesn't meet the criteria for textile-based bags.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 420229?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 420229. For imports into the United States, agreements such as the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) with South Korea (KR) and the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) with Australia (AU) often result in duty-free entry (0%). Other agreements, like those with Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), or Peru (PE), may also offer reduced or zero duties depending on the specific product's origin and adherence to rules of origin. For imports into the UK, agreements with countries like Australia (AU) or Singapore (SG) might apply. It is imperative to consult the specific text of each trade agreement and obtain a valid Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 420229, especially when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS code 420229 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) is usually mandatory. The specific format and requirements for the COO vary by trade agreement. For instance, under some FTAs, a statement of origin on the commercial invoice may suffice, while others require a specific form issued by the exporting country's authorities. Importers must ensure the COO accurately reflects the goods' origin and meets all stipulated requirements to avoid duty reassessment and penalties.