HS 820570 Vices, clamps and the like
Quick Answer: Tools imported under HS 820570 enter the UK at 2.00% ad valorem, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 45% ad valorem, depending on the country of origin. This classification covers vices, clamps, and similar hand-operated tools used for holding or securing workpieces during operations like sawing, filing, or assembly. Importers should be aware of the significant duty variations in the US market, particularly the preferential rates available for goods originating from Free Trade Agreement partner countries. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based rates for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8205700000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8205700000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8205700060 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 82057000 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 8205700030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8205700090 | — | — | ["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 8205.70?
Imports of Vices, clamps and the like 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 820570 cover?
This subheading covers vices, clamps, and similar holding devices designed for securing workpieces during operations such as machining, assembly, or repair. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category includes bench vices, pipe vices, machine vices, and various types of clamps like C-clamps, bar clamps, and spring clamps, provided they are primarily designed for holding objects. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this broad interpretation, emphasizing their function as tools for mechanical holding.
What falls outside HS 820570?
The following products are excluded from HS 820570: tools designed for specific trades that have their own headings (e.g., dentists' or surgical instruments), and general-purpose clamps not specifically designed for holding workpieces in a workshop setting. For instance, binder clips used for paper, clothes pegs, or clamps integrated into larger machinery for a specific function, rather than as standalone holding tools, would be classified elsewhere. The key distinction is the primary function of mechanical holding of workpieces for manual or machine operations.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 820570?
A common error is misclassifying specialized clamping devices that are integral parts of other machines or tools. For example, a clamp that is permanently affixed to a welding machine and solely serves to hold metal parts for that specific welding process might not fall under 820570. This often relates 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. Importers may also incorrectly classify simple spring clamps if they are not clearly intended for workshop use.
How should importers classify products under HS 820570?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 820570 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and primary function. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. It is crucial to determine if the item is a standalone vice or clamp intended for general workshop holding, rather than a component of another apparatus or a tool for a different specific purpose.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820570?
A set of four steel bench vices, each weighing 5 kg and declared at a customs value of $100 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem, applied to the total declared value of $100. The calculation is: 3.7% of $100 = $3.70. However, if the tariff schedule also imposes a specific duty, for example, $0.20 per kg, the duty would be $100 * 0.037 + (4 vices * 5 kg/vice * $0.20/kg) = $3.70 + $4.00 = $7.70. This example uses a hypothetical combined rate for illustrative purposes, referencing the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820570?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820570, 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. The UK's Free Trade Agreement with the EU can also lead to a Free duty rate for goods originating from the EU. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific jurisdiction and the value of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 820570 (Vices, clamps, and the like)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 820570 can vary. For example, the USITC tariff schedule indicates a rate of 3.70% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date MFN rate. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 2.00% ad valorem for goods from non-EU countries.
How do preferential trade agreements affect duties for HS code 820570?
Many preferential trade agreements offer reduced or free entry for goods classified under HS 820570. For example, under the US tariff schedule, several countries (indicated by codes like AU, CL, CO, KR, SG) benefit from a Free duty rate. Importers should verify if their country of origin has a trade agreement with the importing country and if the specific product qualifies for preferential treatment, often requiring a Certificate of Origin.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 820570?
HS code 820570 covers vices, clamps, and similar tools designed for holding workpieces during operations like machining, assembly, or repair. Key classification criteria include the tool's primary function (holding), its mechanism (e.g., screw-operated, lever-operated), and its construction (typically metal). Items that are integral parts of other machines or are primarily for domestic use may be classified elsewhere. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance.
Can you provide an example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 820570?
Let's assume an importer brings in a shipment of vices classified under HS 820570, with an MFN duty rate of 3.70% ad valorem. If the declared value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. Duty Amount = $10,000 × 3.70% = $10,000 × 0.037 = $370.00 USD. This calculation is based solely on the value. Some countries might also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, which would be calculated separately.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 820570?
Standard documentation for importing vices and clamps (HS 820570) includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, quantity, value, and country of origin; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the agreement is mandatory. Customs brokers should also ensure compliance with any specific national import regulations or product safety standards.