HS 844720 Flat knitting machines; stitch-bonding machines
Quick Answer: Flat knitting machines and stitch-bonding machines imported under HS 844720 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 40% ad valorem. This classification covers machinery designed for producing knitted fabrics or garments directly from yarn or other materials, without the need for traditional weaving. Key trade considerations include varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates across major markets, which can significantly impact landed costs. Importers and customs brokers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise rates applicable to their destination country. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447202000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8447200000 | — | — | — |
| 8447208000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447200000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 8447202000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 8447208000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8447202000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 8447204000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 844720 | — | — | — |
| 8447203000 | 2.6% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 8447206000 | Free | — | ["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 8447.20?
Imports of Flat knitting machines; stitch-bonding machines 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 844720 cover?
This subheading covers flat knitting machines and stitch-bonding machines, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. These machines are designed for the production of knitted or stitched fabrics by interlinking loops of yarn. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category specifically includes machines that operate with a flat needle bed to create a flat fabric, distinguishing them from circular knitting machines. Examples include automated flat knitting machines used for apparel and technical textiles.
What falls outside HS 844720?
The following products are excluded from HS 844720: circular knitting machines (classified under HS 844710), machines for making lace, tulle, netting, or embroidery (HS 8441-8455, depending on specific function), and machines for making felt or non-wovens (HS 844900). Also excluded are machines that perform other textile operations such as weaving, tufting, or dyeing. For instance, a machine primarily designed for tufting carpets would not fall under this subheading, even if it uses a stitch-forming process.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844720?
A common error is misclassifying machines that have auxiliary functions alongside knitting, such as those that also perform cutting or finishing operations. According to General Interpretative Rule 3(c) of the Harmonized System, if a product can be classified under two or more headings, it shall be classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration. Importers may also incorrectly classify specialized industrial knitting machines that are designed for very specific technical applications if their primary function is not clearly identified as flat knitting or stitch-bonding.
How should importers classify products under HS 844720?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 844720 involves a thorough examination of the machine's primary function and operational mechanism. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the machine utilizes a flat needle bed for knitting or a stitch-bonding process. Reviewing technical specifications, operational manuals, and manufacturer declarations is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844720?
A Stoll CMS 530 TC flat knitting machine, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD and weighing 1,500 kg, would attract a US duty of $3,750. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 7.5% of $50,000 = $3,750. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically under HTS subheading 8447.20.20.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844720?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844720, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying flat knitting machines originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, preferential rates may be available for machines originating from countries participating in the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), often resulting in reduced or duty-free entry into the EU, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 844720 (Flat knitting machines; stitch-bonding machines) in major markets like the US, EU, and UK?
Import duty rates for HS code 844720 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system generally lists a 1.70% duty rate. The UK Trade Tariff also typically shows a 1.70% duty rate for goods originating from countries without a preferential trade agreement. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and destination, as preferential agreements can reduce or eliminate these duties.
What specific features distinguish a 'flat knitting machine' or 'stitch-bonding machine' under HS code 844720 from other textile machinery?
HS code 844720 covers machines that produce knitted or stitch-bonded fabrics by interlooping or interlacing yarn. Flat knitting machines specifically create fabric on a flat plane, often with intricate patterns, by moving needles back and forth across a stationary bed. Stitch-bonding machines, such as Malimo or Arachne types, create fabric by interlinking yarns using knitting, looping, or tufting actions, often in combination with non-woven materials. Machines that primarily weave, tuft carpets, or produce non-woven fabrics by needle-punching or other methods would generally fall under different HS headings.
Are there any common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 844720 into the United States, European Union, or the United Kingdom?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may qualify for duty-free entry under the HTS, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs that can grant preferential treatment, often resulting in a 0.00% duty rate. The UK also maintains its own set of preferential trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim these preferential rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 844720 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 844720 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a flat knitting machine is valued at $50,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. Duty = $50,000 × 1.70% = $50,000 × 0.017 = $850.00 USD. It's crucial to ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to international valuation rules (e.g., WTO valuation agreement).
What documentation is typically required when importing flat knitting machines or stitch-bonding machines under HS code 844720?
Standard import documentation for HS code 844720 usually includes a commercial invoice detailing the machine's description, quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the country of import and origin, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. Some countries may also request technical specifications or a manufacturer's declaration to confirm the machine's classification. Always consult the specific import regulations of the destination country.