HS 821191 Other
Quick Answer: Knives with cutting blades imported under HS 821191 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.50%, and the US with varying rates including free, 8¢ each + 45%, and 0.4¢ each + 6.8%. This sub-heading specifically covers knives where neither the blade nor the handle is of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal, and which are not folding knives or other knives of heading 8211.92. Importers should carefully review the specific US tariff lines for precise duty calculations, as rates can be compound. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate customs declarations and duty payments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211910000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211910000 | 8.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211911000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8211912500 | 0.4¢ each + 6.8% | Free (16 programs) | ["pcs"] |
| 8211913000 | 0.9¢ each + 10.6% | Free (16 programs) | ["pcs"] |
| 82119150 | 0.7¢ each + 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 8211915060 | — | — | ["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 8211.91?
Imports of Other 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, and 16 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 821191 cover?
This subheading covers knives with cutting blades, other than those specifically classified under subheadings 8211.10 to 8211.90. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses a broad range of knives not otherwise specified, including certain types of kitchen knives, utility knives, and craft knives, provided they possess a cutting blade and are not primarily designed for specific purposes like hunting or surgery, which might fall under different headings. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC system align with this broad interpretation for items not meeting the criteria of more specific subheadings within 8211.
What falls outside HS 821191?
The following products are excluded from HS 821191: knives with blades of precious metal or of precious stone or of precious metal clad with precious metal (heading 7116), knives with blades of artificial plastic materials or of base metal with handles of artificial plastic materials (heading 3926 or 3924), and knives designed for specific professional uses such as surgical instruments (heading 9018) or agricultural tools (heading 8201). Also excluded are items like letter openers (often classified under 3926 or 7326) or tools where the blade is not the primary cutting element, such as certain types of pliers with a cutting function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 821191?
A common error is misclassifying knives based solely on their handle material or intended use without a thorough examination of the blade's characteristics and the overall design. For instance, a utility knife with a plastic handle might be incorrectly placed in a plastics heading if its primary function and construction align with heading 8211. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to ensure correct classification, focusing on the essential character of the item and its most specific description.
How should importers classify products under HS 821191?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 821191 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers should first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. They must identify the precise nature of the knife, focusing on the cutting blade and its primary function. If the knife does not fit any more specific subheading within 8211 or another heading entirely, then 821191 becomes the appropriate classification, ensuring all components and intended uses are considered.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 821191?
A set of 12 stainless steel kitchen knives, with a declared customs value of $150.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $7.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8211.91. The calculation is: 5.0% × $150.00 = $7.50. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 821191?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 821191, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for qualifying goods from certain developing countries, such as Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 821191, and how are they calculated?
HS code 821191 covers 'Other' knives and cutting blades for machines or for mechanical appliances, not specified elsewhere. Duty rates vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is 0.4¢/kg + 6.8% ad valorem. To calculate the duty, you would multiply the weight of the imported goods by $0.004 per kilogram and add 6.8% of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if you import 100 kg of goods valued at $1,000, the duty would be (100 kg * $0.004/kg) + (0.068 * $1,000) = $0.40 + $68.00 = $68.40. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate rates, as preferential rates under trade agreements may apply.
What specific criteria distinguish items classified under HS 821191 from other knife and blade categories?
HS code 821191 is a residual category for knives and cutting blades for machines or mechanical appliances that do not fit into more specific subheadings within 8211. This typically includes blades for food processors, lawnmowers, industrial cutting machines, or other specialized machinery where the blade is a distinct component designed for cutting. If a blade is part of a finished machine or appliance, it would be classified with the machine. If it's a general-purpose knife (e.g., kitchen knives, pocket knives), it would fall under other headings like 8211.92 or 8211.93. The key is that the blade is intended for use with a machine or mechanical appliance and is not otherwise specified.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing goods under HS code 821191?
While HS code 821191 itself doesn't usually trigger unique documentation beyond standard import requirements, the nature of the goods can. Importers should be prepared to provide a commercial invoice detailing the product, quantity, value, and country of origin. A packing list and bill of lading are also standard. Depending on the importing country and the specific type of blade, additional certifications or declarations regarding safety standards, material composition, or origin might be requested. It is crucial to verify the specific import regulations of the destination country with their customs authority or a licensed customs broker.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, impact the duty rates for HS code 821191?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods originating from member countries. For instance, if the blades classified under HS 821191 are manufactured in a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., the USMCA for North America, or various FTAs the EU has with third countries), they may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0%. To claim these preferential rates, importers must typically provide proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin, and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Always consult the specific trade agreement and the importing country's tariff database to determine eligibility and required documentation.
What are the differences in duty calculations between ad valorem and specific duties for HS 821191?
Duty calculations for HS 821191 can be based on either ad valorem (percentage of value) or specific (per unit) duties, or a combination. An ad valorem duty is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, a 8.00% ad valorem rate on goods valued at $1,000 would result in a duty of $80.00 (0.08 * $1,000). A specific duty is a fixed amount per unit, such as '8¢ each'. If you imported 100 blades, the specific duty would be 100 * $0.08 = $8.00. Some tariffs use a compound duty, like '8¢ each + 45% ad valorem', meaning you pay both a per-unit charge and a percentage of the value. The US example in the first FAQ ('0.4¢/kg + 6.8% ad valorem') is a compound duty. The importer must understand which duty type applies to their specific import and calculate accordingly, often paying the higher of the two if a choice is offered.