HS 820830 For kitchen appliances or for machines used by the food industry
Quick Answer: Knives and cutting blades for kitchen appliances or food industry machines imported under HS 820830 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from free to 20% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers blades and knives designed for use in domestic kitchen appliances, such as blenders and food processors, as well as those employed in commercial food processing machinery. Importers should verify the specific end-use and the precise tariff line within the US system to determine the applicable duty. According to CustomTariffs data, variations in duty rates across these major markets highlight the importance of accurate classification and understanding regional trade agreements for efficient import operations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8208300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8208300000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8208300030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 82083000 | Free | — | — |
| 8208300060 | — | — | ["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 820830 cover?
This subheading covers knives and cutting blades specifically designed for use in kitchen appliances, such as food processors, blenders, and mandolines, as well as for machines employed in the food industry for processing, cutting, or slicing food products. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to blades intended for both domestic kitchen use and industrial food preparation machinery, ensuring a consistent global classification for these specialized cutting implements.
What falls outside HS 820830?
The following products are excluded from HS 820830: general-purpose knives not specifically designed for kitchen appliances or food industry machines, such as utility knives or chef's knives for manual use, which are typically classified under HS 8211. Blades for industrial machinery not related to food processing, like those for textile or metalworking machines, are also excluded. For instance, saw blades for woodworking machines would fall under a different heading entirely.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 820830?
A common error is misclassifying blades based solely on their material or general shape, without considering their intended application as stipulated by the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System. For example, a high-quality steel blade that could technically cut food but is designed for a non-food industrial machine would not be classified here. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) and GIR 3 (b) is crucial to ensure classification based on the essential character of the goods.
How should importers classify products under HS 820830?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 820830 involves a thorough examination of the product's design and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the blades are specifically manufactured for integration into kitchen appliances or food industry machinery. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, and reviewing the relevant Explanatory Notes is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 820830?
A set of 10 stainless steel blender blades for a commercial food processing machine, with a declared customs value of $250 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for this specific classification. The calculation is: $250 (declared value) × 10% (duty rate) = $25.00 (duty amount).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 820830?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 820830, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 8208.30 (knives and blades for kitchen appliances or food industry machines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8208.30, covering knives and blades for kitchen appliances or machines used by the food industry, is typically 3.5% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may have a 0.00% duty rate. It is crucial to consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the USITC for the most current and specific rates applicable to your country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS 8208.30 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 8208.30 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if you import 1,000 sets of stainless steel blades for a commercial food processor, and the declared customs value for these blades is $5,000 USD, with an MFN duty rate of 3.5%, the duty calculation would be: $5,000 (value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $175.00 USD. Always ensure your customs value is accurate and includes all elements as defined by customs regulations.
What specific criteria determine if blades fall under HS 8208.30 for kitchen appliances or food industry machines?
To classify under HS 8208.30, the blades must be specifically designed for use in kitchen appliances (such as blenders, food processors, or electric knives) or in machines used in the food industry (like industrial slicers, choppers, or mixers). The key is the intended application and design. Blades that are general-purpose cutting tools or designed for other industrial applications (e.g., woodworking, metalworking) would not be classified here. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide further clarification on the scope of this heading.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing goods under HS code 8208.30?
While specific documentation can vary based on the importing country and the nature of the goods, importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the blades. A packing list is also standard. Crucially, proof of origin will be required if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement (e.g., a Certificate of Origin for USMCA). Depending on the specific type of blade and its intended use, additional certifications or compliance statements related to food safety or material standards might be requested by customs authorities.
How do trade agreements like USMCA affect duty rates for HS 8208.30 imports into the United States?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties. For HS code 8208.30, if the blades are considered originating goods under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), they may qualify for a 0.00% duty rate when imported into the United States. To benefit from this, importers must ensure the goods meet the origin rules stipulated in the agreement and possess the necessary documentation, such as a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin, completed by the exporter. It is essential to verify the origin criteria and documentation requirements for each specific shipment.