HS 820231 Circular saw blades (including slitting or slotting saw blades)
Quick Answer: Circular saw blades, including slitting or slotting saw blades, imported under HS 820231 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US with a duty-free Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, though a 25% tariff may apply under certain trade actions. This classification specifically covers saw blades designed to be fitted onto circular sawing machines, characterized by their circular shape and toothed edges for cutting. Importers and customs brokers should verify the specific tariff treatment based on the origin of the goods and any applicable trade remedies. CustomTariffs aggregates this essential classification data for international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8202310000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8202310000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8202310000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 820231 cover?
This subheading covers circular saw blades, including those specifically designed for slitting or slotting operations, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, these are typically metal blades with a circular shape and a toothed edge, intended for use with power-driven saws to cut various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. The key characteristic is their circular form and their function as cutting implements for sawing machines.
What falls outside HS 820231?
The following products are excluded from HS 820231: saw blades that are not circular, such as reciprocating or band saw blades, and blades designed for manual saws. Additionally, saw blades that are integral parts of a machine, rather than separate cutting tools, are classified elsewhere. For instance, a diamond cutting disc for a grinder, even if circular, would not fall under this subheading if its primary function is grinding rather than sawing, and would likely be classified under heading 6804.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 820231?
A common error is misclassifying circular blades based solely on their material composition rather than their specific function as saw blades. For example, a circular cutting disc made of abrasive material, intended for cutting stone or metal through abrasion rather than by toothed cutting action, would not be classified under 820231. This often arises from not adhering to General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 820231?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 820231 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and cutting mechanism. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Confirming that the blade is circular, has a toothed edge for sawing, and is intended for use with a power saw is crucial. Comparing the product against the Explanatory Notes of the WCO HS is also highly recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820231?
A 10-inch diameter steel circular saw blade for woodworking, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $25.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $1.25. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($25.00 × 0.05 = $1.25). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 820231.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820231?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820231, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted and applicable to this product) or similar bilateral agreements could offer preferential rates. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required, detailing the origin of the goods and compliance with rules of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 820231 (circular saw blades)?
The import duty rates for HS code 820231 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.70% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system may list different rates depending on the specific type of blade and origin, but a common rate can be around 2.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also has specific rates. It is crucial to consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact rate applicable to your specific situation and country of origin.
How is the import duty for circular saw blades (HS 820231) calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 820231 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of circular saw blades valued at $10,000 is imported into the US, and the MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 (value) × 0.0270 (duty rate) = $270. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the calculation basis in the destination country's tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that impact HS code 820231?
Yes, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for circular saw blades (HS 820231) under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing nation may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements for the specific trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates. Always check the specific provisions of relevant FTAs (e.g., USMCA, EU trade deals) for applicability.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 820231?
HS code 820231 specifically covers 'Circular saw blades (including slitting or slotting saw blades)'. The primary classification criterion is the product's form and function: it must be a blade designed to be fitted to a circular saw machine for cutting. This includes blades with teeth along the circumference, used for ripping or cross-cutting wood, metal, or other materials. Blades that are not circular, or those designed for other types of saws (e.g., band saws, jig saws), would fall under different HS codes. The material of the blade (e.g., high-speed steel, carbide-tipped) and its diameter are generally not determinative for this specific subheading, as long as it meets the definition of a circular saw blade.
What documentation is typically required when importing circular saw blades under HS code 820231?
Standard documentation for importing circular saw blades (HS 820231) includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. If preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement, a certificate of origin or other acceptable proof of origin is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional certifications related to safety standards or material composition might be required. Customs brokers should always verify the specific import requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.