HS 844711 Circular knitting machines
Quick Answer: Circular knitting machines imported under HS 844711 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from Free to 40% ad valorem depending on specific subheadings. This classification covers machines that produce knitted fabric in a circular form, essential for manufacturing items like hosiery, seamless garments, and technical textiles. Importers should verify the specific US tariff line for precise duty application. According to CustomTariffs data, while the UK offers duty-free access, other major markets have distinct tariff structures requiring careful attention for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447110000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447119010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8447119020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8447119090 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 844711 | — | — | — |
| 8447111000 | 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 844711 cover?
This subheading covers circular knitting machines, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes. These machines are designed to produce knitted fabric in a circular form through the interlacing of yarns by a series of needles arranged in a circular manner. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category specifically includes machines that operate on a rotary principle to create seamless tubular fabrics, often used in apparel and technical textiles.
What falls outside HS 844711?
The following products are excluded from HS 844711: flat knitting machines, which produce fabric in a flat or rectangular piece, and other types of textile machinery not primarily designed for circular knitting. For instance, warp knitting machines, which create fabric by interlooping warp yarns, are classified under different headings. Similarly, machines for making lace, braids, or nets, even if they utilize knitting principles, are generally excluded and fall under separate HS codes, ensuring precise classification based on the specific mechanism and output.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844711?
A common error is misinterpreting the "circular" aspect of the knitting mechanism. Importers may mistakenly classify flat knitting machines or machines that produce knitted components for other purposes under this subheading. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Therefore, it is crucial to verify that the machine's primary function and design are for producing seamless, circular knitted fabric, not flat panels or other textile structures.
How should importers classify products under HS 844711?
The correct procedure for classifying machines under HS 844711 involves a thorough examination of the machine's technical specifications and operational principles. Importers and customs brokers should consult the manufacturer's documentation, which details the machine's design, including the arrangement of needles and the method of fabric formation. Cross-referencing these details with the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential to confirm it is indeed a circular knitting machine.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844711?
A "Santoni SM8-TOP" circular knitting machine, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,750.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: $50,000 (declared value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $1,750.00 (duty amount). This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844711?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844711, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying circular knitting machines originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported into the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying goods from certain developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 844711, 'Circular knitting machines'?
The import duty rates for HS code 844711, 'Circular knitting machines,' vary by country and trade agreement. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S. might be eligible for duty-free entry. Always consult the latest USITC tariff schedule for the most accurate and country-specific rates. For imports into the EU, the TARIC database indicates a duty rate of 2.70% ad valorem for this code, though this can be reduced or eliminated under various preferential trade agreements.
How is the import duty for a circular knitting machine calculated under HS 844711?
The import duty is typically calculated based on the ad valorem method, which is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a circular knitting machine valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. and is subject to the MFN duty rate of 1.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.0170 (duty rate) = $170.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, but for HS 844711, ad valorem is most common. Always ensure your customs broker uses the correct customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight (CIF) to the port of entry.
What documentation is typically required when importing circular knitting machines under HS code 844711?
When importing circular knitting machines classified under HS code 844711, standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the machines; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the machinery, additional documents such as import licenses, safety certifications, or technical specifications might be necessary. It is crucial to consult the customs authorities of the importing country or your customs broker for a comprehensive list.
Are there specific classification criteria to ensure a machine is correctly classified under HS 844711?
Yes, to ensure correct classification under HS 844711, 'Circular knitting machines,' the machine must be designed for the production of knitted fabrics or garments by means of circular needles. Key characteristics include the use of a circular arrangement of needles and the ability to produce seamless tubular fabrics or shaped knitted articles. Machines that knit flat fabrics, or those primarily used for embroidery, lace-making, or other textile operations not involving knitting, would be classified under different HS codes. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) and national tariff rulings for detailed classification guidance.
Which common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 844711?
The duty rates for HS code 844711 can be significantly affected by trade agreements. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Other FTAs the U.S. has with countries like Australia, South Korea, or Singapore could also provide reduced or zero duty rates. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries such as Switzerland, Norway, or those in the European Economic Area (EEA) often result in duty-free access. Similarly, the UK's trade agreements post-Brexit can impact duties for goods imported into the United Kingdom. Importers should verify the Rules of Origin for any applicable trade agreement to confirm eligibility for preferential treatment.