HS 821591 Other
Quick Answer: Tableware and kitchenware of base metal, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 821591 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.70%, and the US with varying rates including free, 2¢ each + 45%, and 4.2% depending on the specific item. This residual classification applies to items such as spoons, forks, and knives made from base metals that do not fit into more specific HS codes within Chapter 82. Importers should carefully review the specific product composition and intended use to ensure correct classification, as the US, in particular, has multiple sub-classifications within 821591. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise product descriptions for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8215910000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8215910000 | 4.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 821591 | — | — | — |
| 8215913000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8215916000 | 4.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8215919000 | 2.7% | 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 8215.91?
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, 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 821591 cover?
This subheading covers other tableware and kitchenware, and parts thereof, of base metal, not elsewhere specified within Heading 8215. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this residual category captures items that do not fit into more specific subheadings like spoons, forks, knives, or ladles. For example, it may include items such as metal serving tongs, pastry servers, or decorative metal serving dishes, provided they are not specifically classified elsewhere and are not made of precious metal or plated with precious metal.
What falls outside HS 821591?
The following products are excluded from HS 821591: tableware and kitchenware, and parts thereof, of precious metal or metal clad with precious metal (classified under Chapter 71); articles of cutlery (Heading 8211); tools or implements, with or without handles, of a kind used in the kitchen (Heading 8205); and articles of plastic tableware and kitchenware (Chapter 39). For instance, plastic serving spoons or stainless steel knives specifically designed for cutting are not classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 821591?
A common error is misclassifying items that have a primary function other than serving or preparing food, or items that are specifically enumerated in other headings. For example, tools of a kind used in the kitchen, such as graters or whisks, are typically classified under Heading 8205, not 8215. Additionally, confusion can arise with items made of precious metals or plated with precious metals, which are excluded and fall under Chapter 71, irrespective of their form or function.
How should importers classify products under HS 821591?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 821591 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition, intended use, and specific features. Importers and customs brokers must consult the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1, to determine the most appropriate heading and subheading. If the item is made of base metal and is tableware or kitchenware not specifically covered by other subheadings within 8215, and not excluded by other chapters, then 821591 is likely applicable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 821591?
A set of 12 stainless steel dessert spoons (HS 821591) weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD would attract a US duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value: 3.0% × $50 USD = $1.50. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 821591?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 821591, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program may also receive reduced or duty-free entry into the United States, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 821591, and how can I find preferential rates?
HS code 821591 covers 'Other' articles of cutlery and flatware, not specified elsewhere under 8215. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the US is 4.70% ad valorem. For preferential rates, such as under the USMCA or other trade agreements, you must consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country. For example, the EU TARIC system or the UK Trade Tariff will provide applicable rates for goods entering those regions, which may differ significantly. Always verify the origin of the goods and the specific trade agreement requirements to claim preferential treatment.
What specific criteria determine if an item falls under HS 821591 'Other'?
HS code 821591 is a residual category. An item is classified here if it is a type of cutlery or flatware (e.g., spoons, forks, knives, ladles, cake servers, etc.) made from base metal, precious metal, or metal clad with precious metal, but is not specifically enumerated under other subheadings of 8215 (such as those for specific types of knives or spoons). The key is that it must fit the general definition of cutlery or flatware and not be classifiable elsewhere in the tariff. If an item has multiple functions, classification is typically based on its essential character.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 821591?
Standard import documentation for HS 821591 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. For items made of precious metals, additional declarations or assay certificates might be necessary to verify metal content and purity. Always check the specific import regulations of the destination country.
How is the import duty for HS 821591 calculated, using a specific example?
The duty calculation depends on the specific rate applied. For example, if the MFN duty rate for HS 821591 is 4.70% ad valorem and you are importing a shipment of spoons valued at $10,000 USD, the ad valorem duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.0470 (duty rate) = $470.00 USD. If the duty were a specific rate, such as '2¢ each', and you imported 5,000 spoons, the duty would be: 5,000 (units) × $0.02 (rate per unit) = $100.00 USD. Some tariffs combine rates, like '2¢ each + 45% ad valorem', requiring both calculations and summation.
Which major trade agreements might offer reduced or zero duty rates for goods classified under HS 821591?
The applicability of reduced or zero duty rates for HS 821591 depends entirely on the specific trade agreement between the country of origin and the country of importation. For goods originating in Canada or Mexico and imported into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer preferential treatment, potentially reducing duties to zero if rules of origin are met. Similarly, agreements like the EU's with various countries, or the UK's post-Brexit trade deals, could provide preferential rates. Importers must consult the relevant trade agreement text and country-specific tariff schedules to determine eligibility and claim benefits.