HS 820820 For woodworking

Quick Answer: Knives and cutting blades for woodworking machinery imported under HS 820820 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 20% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers blades designed for use in machines such as planers, jointers, and moulders, essential for shaping and finishing wood. Importers should verify the specific subheadings within the US tariff schedule for precise duty application. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8208200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8208200000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8208200030 — — ["No."]
8208200090 — — ["No."]
82082000 Free — —
8208200060 — — ["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?

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What products does HS 820820 cover?

This subheading covers knives and cutting blades, specifically those designed for woodworking machinery. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes blades for planers, jointers, moulders, and other woodworking equipment. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are specialized cutting tools intended for shaping, cutting, or finishing wood, differentiating them from general-purpose knives.

What falls outside HS 820820?

The following products are excluded from HS 820820: blades for metalworking machinery, blades for food processing, and general-purpose hand knives. For instance, saw blades, even if used in woodworking, are typically classified under HS 8202. Similarly, blades for agricultural machinery or for cutting textiles would fall under different headings. The key differentiator is the specific application within woodworking machinery, as defined by the WCO.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 820820?

A common error is misclassifying blades intended for hand-held power tools used in woodworking, such as router bits or jigsaw blades, under this subheading. These often fall under HS 820890 ("Other") or even HS 8202 if they are saw blades. General Interpretation Rule (GIR) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial here. The specific design and intended use for machinery are paramount.

How should importers classify products under HS 820820?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 820820 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and the machinery it is designed to fit. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and cross-reference with the WCO Explanatory Notes. Confirming that the blade is specifically manufactured for use in woodworking machinery is essential for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820820?

A set of ten planer knives weighing 2.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation adheres to the methodology outlined in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies ad valorem duties for such items.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820820?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820820, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin declaration for USMCA, and potentially a EUR.1 movement certificate for other agreements, depending on the origin country and specific trade pact.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 820810 HS 820220 HS 820770 HS 820780 HS 820890 HS 820530

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 8208.20 (knives and blades for woodworking machinery)?

The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8208.20, which covers knives and blades for woodworking machinery, is 3.5% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods imported from countries that do not have a preferential trade agreement with the United States. For specific preferential rates under trade agreements, consult the US International Trade Commission (USITC) tariff database.

How is the import duty for HS 8208.20 calculated? Provide an example.

The duty for HS code 8208.20 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if you import 1,000 woodworking blades valued at $5 each, the total declared value is $5,000. With a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate, the import duty would be $5,000 \times 0.035 = $175.00. Always ensure your customs invoice accurately reflects the value of the goods.

What are the classification criteria for knives and blades under HS code 8208.20?

HS code 8208.20 specifically applies to knives and cutting blades for use in woodworking machinery. This includes blades for planers, jointers, moulders, routers, and other machines designed for shaping or cutting wood. The key criterion is the intended use in woodworking machinery. Blades for hand tools or for other types of machinery (e.g., metalworking, food processing) would be classified under different HS codes.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS code 8208.20 under US trade agreements?

Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 8208.20 depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States might qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements for the specific FTA and possess the necessary documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment. Consult the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for detailed information on specific trade agreements and their impact on duty rates.

What documentation is typically required when importing knives and blades classified under HS 8208.20?

Standard import documentation for HS code 8208.20 includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, description, unit value, and total value of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. If claiming preferential treatment under a Free Trade Agreement, a certificate of origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the agreement will be mandatory. Customs brokers may also require additional product-specific information to verify compliance with any applicable regulations or standards.