HS 821220 Safety razor blades, including razor blade blanks in strips
Quick Answer: Safety razor blades, including blanks in strips, imported under HS 821220 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US with varying rates including free and a specific duty of 1¢ each plus 30%. This classification specifically covers the blades themselves, not the complete razor assembly. Importers should be aware of the significant difference in US duty structure, which combines an ad valorem rate with a per-unit charge, potentially leading to higher costs for certain volumes. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8212200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8212200000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8212200010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 82122000 | Free | — | — |
| 8212200005 | — | — | ["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 821220 cover?
This subheading covers safety razor blades, including those in strip form that are not yet cut into individual blades. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is specifically for blades designed for use in safety razors. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes both finished blades and blanks intended for further processing into finished blades, provided they are suitable for safety razors.
What falls outside HS 821220?
The following products are excluded from HS 821220: single-use disposable razors that incorporate the blade, blades for straight razors, industrial cutting blades, and blades for electric shavers. For example, a complete disposable razor unit, even if it contains safety razor blades, would be classified under a different heading. Similarly, blades designed for machines or tools, rather than manual shaving, are not covered by this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 821220?
A common error is misclassifying razor blade blanks that are not specifically intended for safety razors or are presented in a form that does not clearly indicate their intended use. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may mistakenly classify blades for industrial machinery or other cutting tools under this heading, overlooking their specific application.
How should importers classify products under HS 821220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 821220 involves carefully examining the product's intended use and form. Importers and customs brokers should verify if the blades are specifically designed for safety razors. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the product is a blank strip, its suitability for conversion into safety razor blades must be confirmed.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 821220?
A pack of 10 Gillette Mach3 replacement razor blade cartridges, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $5.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 10% of $50 USD = $5.00. This rate applies to imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 821220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 821220, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible razor blades originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required by US Customs and Border Protection. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for specific developing countries.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 821220 (Safety razor blades)?
Import duty rates for HS code 821220 vary by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA may be duty-free. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the duty calculated for safety razor blades classified under HS 821220?
The duty calculation typically depends on the rate structure. If the rate is 'ad valorem' (e.g., 2.70%), the duty is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. If the rate includes a specific component (e.g., 1¢ each + 30% ad valorem), duty is calculated based on both the quantity and the value. For example, if 1,000 blades are imported with a declared value of $100 and the duty rate is 1¢ each + 30% ad valorem: Duty = (1,000 blades * $0.01/blade) + (30% * $100) Duty = $10.00 + $30.00 Total Duty = $40.00. Ensure accurate valuation and quantity reporting.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 821220?
HS code 821220 covers 'Safety razor blades, including razor blade blanks in strips'. The primary criterion is that the blades are designed for use in safety razors. This includes both finished blades ready for insertion into a razor handle and 'blanks in strips' which are essentially continuous lengths of metal that will be cut and shaped into individual blades. Blades for other types of razors (e.g., straight razors, electric razors) would be classified elsewhere. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing safety razor blades under HS 821220?
Standard import documentation for HS 821220 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or samples if customs authorities require verification of classification. Compliance with any specific product safety or labeling regulations of the destination country is also crucial.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 821220?
Several trade agreements can provide reduced or free import duties for HS code 821220, provided the goods meet the rules of origin. Examples include:
- USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): Goods originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry into the United States.
- EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP): Developing countries may benefit from preferential rates when exporting to the European Union.
- Bilateral Free Trade Agreements: Many countries have bilateral FTAs that could offer preferential treatment.
Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these benefits. Always verify eligibility with the specific trade agreement and the customs authority of the importing country.