HS 844120 Machines for making bags, sacks or envelopes
Quick Answer: Machines for making bags, sacks, or envelopes imported under HS 844120 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This classification covers automated or semi-automated machinery specifically designed for the production of paper, plastic, or textile bags, sacks, and envelopes. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations between major trading blocs, which can impact landed costs. Exporters should consult specific country tariff schedules for precise application. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for careful classification and duty planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8441200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8441200000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8441200000 | Free | — | ["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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 844120 cover?
This subheading covers machines specifically designed for the manufacture of bags, sacks, or envelopes. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes machines that perform operations such as cutting, folding, gluing, and sealing to form these items from paper, plastic film, or other flexible materials. For example, automated machines that produce paper grocery bags or plastic mailing envelopes fall under this classification, as confirmed by definitions found in the EU TARIC and USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
What falls outside HS 844120?
The following products are excluded from HS 844120: machines that produce finished goods other than bags, sacks, or envelopes, such as those for making boxes (HS 844130) or cartons (HS 844140). Also excluded are machines for printing on bags or envelopes, which would typically be classified under Chapter 84, heading 8443 (Printing machinery). Furthermore, simple cutting or folding machines not integrated into a bag-making process are generally classified elsewhere, often under HS 844110 for cutting machines.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844120?
A common error is misclassifying machines that perform multiple functions. If a machine's primary function is bag making, but it also includes significant printing capabilities, it might be incorrectly classified under HS 844120 instead of a printing machine heading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are described by two or more headings, the heading that describes the essential character of the goods shall be taken. Importers must carefully assess the principal function of the machine.
How should importers classify products under HS 844120?
The correct procedure for classifying machines under HS 844120 involves a thorough review of the machine's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, and cross-reference with the WCO Explanatory Notes. It is crucial to identify the primary function of the machine to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844120?
A hypothetical automatic paper bag making machine, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $2,500 USD. 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 machines of this type (e.g., 8441.20.0000). The calculation is: $50,000 (declared value) × 0.05 (duty rate) = $2,500 (duty amount).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844120, 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, preferential rates may apply under agreements with countries like South Korea. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 844120 (Machines for making bags, sacks or envelopes)?
The import duty rates for HS code 844120 vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may be lower, potentially even 0.00% or Free for qualifying goods. The UK Trade Tariff may list different rates, and the EU's TARIC system provides a comprehensive overview of duties, including potential anti-dumping measures or other trade defence instruments. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rate.
How is the import duty for HS code 844120 calculated? Can you provide an example?
Import duties for HS code 844120 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a machine for making bags is valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0170 (Duty Rate) = $170.00 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to confirm the basis of duty calculation with the destination country's customs authority.
What specific criteria determine if a machine falls under HS code 844120?
HS code 844120 covers machines specifically designed for the manufacture of bags, sacks, or envelopes. This includes machinery that performs operations such as cutting, folding, gluing, sealing, or printing to form these items from paper, plastic, or other flexible materials. The key is the primary function of the machine. Machines that perform only a single operation (e.g., a simple bag sealer) might be classified elsewhere if they are not part of an integrated process for bag/sack/envelope production. Consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) for detailed guidance on the scope of this heading.
What documentation is typically required when importing machines classified under HS code 844120?
When importing machines under HS code 844120, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Additionally, technical specifications or manuals for the machinery might be requested by customs to verify its classification and intended use. It's advisable to check the specific import regulations of the destination country.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU FTAs, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 844120?
Yes, common trade agreements often provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 844120, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying machines may be eligible for a 0.00% duty rate upon importation into the US, Canada, or Mexico. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries that could reduce or eliminate duties on these machines. Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the machinery's manufacturing origin satisfies the agreement's requirements to benefit from these reduced rates.