HS 820420 Interchangeable spanner sockets, with or without handles

Quick Answer: Interchangeable spanner sockets, with or without handles, imported under HS 820420 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from free to 45% depending on the country of origin. This classification covers individual socket heads designed to be attached to a ratchet or handle for tightening or loosening fasteners. Importers should be aware of the significant duty variations, particularly the high rates applicable to certain US imports, and consult specific trade agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, verifying the precise origin and applicable preferential rates is crucial for accurate customs declarations and duty calculations.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8204200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8204200000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8204200000 9% 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 8204.20?

Imports of Interchangeable spanner sockets, with or without handles 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?

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What products does HS 820420 cover?

This subheading covers interchangeable spanner sockets, designed to be fitted onto a handle or ratchet mechanism for tightening or loosening fasteners. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are distinct from complete wrenches or spanners. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes sockets of various sizes and drive types, whether sold individually or as part of a set, provided they are intended for interchangeable use with a handle.

What falls outside HS 820420?

The following products are excluded from HS 820420: complete wrenches and spanners (which are classified under HS 820411 or 820412), socket sets that are permanently attached to a handle and cannot be interchanged, and specialized tools like impact sockets designed for power tools, which may fall under different headings. Additionally, non-socket type attachments for ratchets, such as screwdriver bits, are not included and would typically be classified elsewhere based on their primary function.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 820420?

A common error is misclassifying complete wrench sets as interchangeable sockets. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify sockets intended for specialized power tools under this heading, when they should be classified according to the specific power tool or its intended use, often under Chapter 84.

How should importers classify products under HS 820420?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 820420 involves a thorough examination of the product's design and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the item is indeed an interchangeable socket for spanners and not a complete wrench or a specialized tool. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial for accurate determination.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820420?

A set of 10 chrome vanadium steel 1/2-inch drive sockets, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem (7.0% × $50 = $3.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8204.20.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820420?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The UK's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer preferential rates for goods from certain developing countries, potentially Free. To claim these preferences, a valid origin declaration or certificate, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for other agreements, is typically required by customs authorities.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 820411 HS 820790 HS 820540 HS 820740 HS 820520 HS 820551

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 820420 (Interchangeable spanner sockets, with or without handles)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 820420 can vary. For example, the United States applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty. The European Union, under the TARIC system, may have rates such as 2.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff often lists a rate of 3.7% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rate. These rates are subject to change and can be influenced by trade agreements.

How is the import duty for HS code 820420 calculated? Can you provide an example?

Import duty for HS code 820420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the United States MFN duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, and you import a shipment of interchangeable spanner sockets valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the duty calculation method with the relevant customs authority.

What are the classification criteria for goods under HS code 820420?

HS code 820420 covers interchangeable spanner sockets, which are designed to be fitted onto a handle or ratchet to form a complete tool for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts. Key classification criteria include: 1. Interchangeability: The sockets must be designed to be detached and replaced with other sockets of different sizes or types. 2. Functionality: Their primary purpose is to engage with fasteners (nuts, bolts). 3. Material: While not explicitly defined by material in the heading, they are typically made of metal, such as steel alloys. Items that are part of a fixed set where sockets are not easily interchangeable, or tools that are not designed for use with a separate handle, may fall under different HS codes.

Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 820420?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 820420. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for duty-free entry (0% duty). Similarly, agreements like the Central America-Dominican Republic-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) can offer reduced or zero duties for qualifying goods from member countries. The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide that may reduce or eliminate duties on these goods. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation.

What documentation is typically required when importing interchangeable spanner sockets under HS code 820420?

When importing goods classified under HS code 820420, standard import documentation is generally required. 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. Crucially, if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin that meets the specific requirements of that agreement is mandatory. Some countries may also require product safety certifications or compliance with specific standards, depending on the end-use and origin of the goods. It is advisable to consult the importing country's customs regulations or work with a customs broker to ensure all necessary documents are prepared accurately.