HS 821194 Blades
Quick Answer: Blades imported under HS 821194 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.70%, and the US with varied rates including Free for certain trade agreements, 0.16¢ each + 2.2%, and 8¢ each + 45%. This code specifically covers blades for knives, whether or not for use in machines, excluding those for agricultural or forestry machinery. Importers should be aware of the significant duty variations in the US based on origin and specific trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the applicable rate based on the country of export and any preferential trade programs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211940000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211940000 | 6.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8211941000 | 0.16¢ each + 2.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 821194 | — | — | — |
| 8211945000 | 1¢ each + 5.4% | 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 8211.94?
Imports of Blades 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 821194 cover?
This subheading covers blades for knives and cutting machines, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. Specifically, it includes loose blades that are not part of a knife or a cutting machine, but are intended for use with them. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this classification is for individual blades, such as those for utility knives, craft knives, or certain industrial cutting equipment, provided they are presented separately and not assembled with handles or machinery.
What falls outside HS 821194?
The following products are excluded from HS 821194: complete knives (which fall under 8211.10 or 8211.91), saw blades (classified under 8202), blades for machines of Chapter 84 or 85 (e.g., blender blades, lawnmower blades), and blades that are integral parts of specific tools or machinery. For instance, a set of interchangeable blades sold with a multi-tool handle would likely be classified with the tool itself, not as separate blades under this subheading. Blades for surgical instruments are also classified separately.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 821194?
A common error is misclassifying blades that are part of a finished product or a set. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3(b) of the Harmonized System, the classification should be based on the essential character of the good. Importers may incorrectly classify a set containing a handle and multiple blades under 821194 when the essential character is the complete knife or tool. Conversely, presenting a single, unmounted blade intended for a specific machine as a general-purpose blade can also lead to misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 821194?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 821194 involves a detailed examination of the product's presentation and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain if the item is a loose, unmounted blade, not part of a complete knife or machine. Reviewing the product's specifications, packaging, and any accompanying documentation is crucial. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing Explanatory Notes from the WCO will ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 821194?
A shipment of 1,000 stainless steel utility knife blades, each weighing approximately 15 grams, declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem applied to the declared value ($200 USD × 0.05 = $10.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8211.94.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 821194?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 821194, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for qualifying goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 821194, covering 'Blades'?
Import duty rates for HS code 821194, which covers 'Blades' (other than for machines), vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, rates under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) might be lower or free. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff also list specific rates, which can include ad valorem duties, specific duties (per unit), or a combination. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 821194 if a specific duty component is involved?
When a duty calculation involves a specific component (e.g., per unit) in addition to an ad valorem rate, both are applied. For instance, if a country applies a duty of '0.16¢ each + 2.2% ad valorem' for HS 821194, and you import 1,000 blades valued at $1.00 each (total value $1,000), the duty would be calculated as follows: Specific duty: 1,000 blades * $0.16/blade = $160.00. Ad valorem duty: 2.2% of $1,000 = $22.00. Total duty: $160.00 + $22.00 = $182.00. Always verify the exact calculation method and currency in the relevant tariff schedule.
What are the classification criteria for 'Blades' under HS code 821194?
HS code 821194 covers 'Blades' that are not parts of machines, nor are they specifically classified elsewhere within Chapter 82 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes loose knife blades, razor blades, blades for craft knives, utility knives, and other cutting implements not attached to or designed for a specific machine. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide guidance, emphasizing that the key is the blade's standalone nature and its primary function as a cutting edge. Blades designed for specific tools like saws (Chapter 8202) or machine knives (Chapter 84) would be classified under different headings.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 821194, and what documentation is typically required?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 821194. Examples include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), agreements between the EU and various countries (e.g., Generalized System of Preferences - GSP), and bilateral agreements like the one between Australia and Singapore. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a 'Certificate of Origin' or a 'Statement of Origin' issued by the exporter or producer, which certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. The specific documentation requirements can vary by agreement and importing country, so consulting the relevant customs authority is essential.
Are there any special considerations or restrictions when importing blades under HS code 821194?
While HS code 821194 primarily deals with the tariff classification and duty assessment of blades, importers should be aware of potential non-tariff barriers. Depending on the type of blade and the importing country, regulations related to safety, materials, or even potential dual-use concerns might apply. For instance, certain types of knives or blades might be subject to import restrictions or require specific permits. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to research any specific import regulations, licensing requirements, or product safety standards applicable to the particular type of blade being imported into the destination country.