HS 820340 Pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, perforating punches and similar tools
Quick Answer: Pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, perforating punches, and similar tools imported under HS 820340 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from free to 60% ad valorem, depending on the country of origin. This classification covers hand-operated tools designed for cutting pipes, severing bolts, or making perforations, often found in plumbing, construction, and metalworking trades. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to the specific tool's function is crucial for accurate classification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8203400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8203400000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8203403000 | 6% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 820340 | — | — | — |
| 8203406000 | 3.3% | Free (17 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 8203.40?
Imports of Pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, perforating punches and similar tools 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 for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 820340 cover?
This subheading covers hand-operated tools designed for cutting or punching, specifically pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, and perforating punches, as well as similar tools. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these tools are characterized by their mechanical leverage or cutting action for specific material severing or hole creation. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on tools that employ a shearing or piercing mechanism for their primary function, often featuring robust blades or punches.
What falls outside HS 820340?
The following products are excluded from HS 820340: general-purpose pliers (HS 820320), wire cutters that are not specifically designed for bolts or pipes, and powered cutting or punching machinery. Tools that perform different functions, such as screwdrivers (HS 8204), wrenches (HS 8204), or knives (HS 8211), are also classified elsewhere. For instance, a simple hole punch for paper would not fall under this heading but rather under stationery items.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 820340?
A common error is misclassifying tools that have a cutting or punching function but are not specifically enumerated or similar in function to pipe-cutters or bolt croppers. For example, specialized industrial cutting tools or tools designed for different materials might be incorrectly placed here. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, meaning the specific function and design are paramount.
How should importers classify products under HS 820340?
The correct procedure for classifying tools under HS 820340 involves a detailed examination of the product's design, intended use, and operational mechanism. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, to verify the precise description. Comparing the tool's features against the wording of heading 8203 and subheading 820340, and considering any explanatory notes, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820340?
A set of 5 heavy-duty bolt croppers weighing 10 kg and declared at a customs value of $250 USD would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($250 USD × 0.05 = $12.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8203.40.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820340?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820340, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying tools originating from Canada or Mexico can receive a duty rate of Free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying products from certain developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the primary duty rates for HS code 820340 (Pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, perforating punches and similar tools)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 820340 in the United States is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from countries with specific trade agreements. For example, imports from Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) may be eligible for free entry (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) or the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website for the most current and country-specific rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 820340 if imported from a country with a 6.00% MFN duty rate?
The duty is calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of pipe-cutters valued at $5,000 is imported from a country subject to the 6.00% MFN duty rate, the import duty would be calculated as follows: $5,000 (Value) × 0.06 (6.00% Duty Rate) = $300.00. This calculation assumes no other duties or fees apply.
What are the key classification criteria for tools to be classified under HS code 820340?
HS code 820340 covers 'Pipe-cutters, bolt croppers, perforating punches and similar tools'. The key criteria for classification are the tool's primary function: it must be designed for cutting pipes, cropping bolts, or punching holes, and possess a similar cutting or shearing action. Tools that perform different functions, such as pliers for gripping or wrenches for turning, would be classified under different HS codes. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 820340 into the United States?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 820340 into the United States. These include agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Canada (CA) under USMCA, Chile (CL) under USCFTA, and South Korea (KR) under KORUS FTA. Imports from these and other partner countries may qualify for free (0.00%) or reduced duty rates. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates, as stipulated by the respective trade agreements.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing tools under HS code 820340?
While HS code 820340 itself does not typically require specific import licenses or permits for general import into the US, standard customs documentation is mandatory. This 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 claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration meeting the specific requirements of that agreement is essential. Customs brokers should verify any specific requirements with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or consult the HTSUS.