HS 845221 Other sewing machines
Quick Answer: Other sewing machines imported under HS 845221 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US duty-free. This classification covers sewing machines that are not automatic for household use, nor industrial sewing machines of heading 8452.11. This includes, for example, non-automatic sewing machines for domestic use that require manual operation for certain functions. Importers should verify specific national tariff schedules for any applicable taxes or fees beyond the ad valorem duty. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8452210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8452210000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8452211000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 845221 | — | — | — |
| 8452219000 | 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 845221 cover?
This subheading covers "Other sewing machines" that are not automatic or not designed for household use, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) Nomenclature. This includes industrial sewing machines for specific applications, such as those for sewing heavy-duty materials, embroidery machines not fully automated, or machines designed for specialized stitching beyond standard garment production. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on the scope, often distinguishing based on functionality and intended use.
What falls outside HS 845221?
The following products are excluded from HS 845221: fully automatic sewing machines (classified under 845229), sewing machines for household use (classified under 845210), and machines for specific industrial processes that are not primarily sewing machines, such as knitting machines (8447), button sewing machines (often classified under 845290 as parts or accessories if not complete machines), or machines for making footwear (8453). The key distinction lies in the primary function and degree of automation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 845221?
A common error is misclassifying industrial sewing machines as household machines or vice versa, based on size or perceived complexity rather than their intended application and technical specifications. Another mistake involves classifying specialized machines that perform functions beyond basic sewing, such as those with integrated cutting or finishing capabilities, under this subheading when they might belong to a more specific heading or subheading. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) for composite goods and Rule 3(c) for the essential character is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 845221?
The correct procedure for classifying sewing machines under HS 845221 involves a thorough examination of the machine's design, functionality, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and the WCO HS Explanatory Notes. Key considerations include whether the machine is automatic, its capacity for different types of stitches, and whether it is designed for industrial or household purposes, ensuring it meets the criteria for "other" sewing machines.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845221?
A specific industrial overlock sewing machine, declared at a customs value of $500 USD and weighing 15 kg, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 845221.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845221?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845221, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada. The EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A, depending on the origin country and the specific agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 8452.21, covering 'Other sewing machines'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8452.21 can vary by country. For example, in the United States, the general rate is 3.70% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 0.00% ad valorem for most origins, but specific trade agreements or origin countries may alter this. The UK Trade Tariff also lists varying rates, with many being Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
What specific criteria distinguish a sewing machine classified under HS 8452.21 as 'Other'?
HS code 8452.21, 'Other sewing machines, automatic,' generally applies to sewing machines that are not specifically covered by more detailed subheadings within Chapter 8452. This typically includes machines that are designed for sewing, often incorporating automatic features like needle feeding, thread trimming, or programmed stitch patterns, but do not fit into categories for household machines (8452.10) or industrial machines with specific functions like lock-stitching or overlocking if those are separately classified. The key is that they perform the function of sewing and possess a degree of automation beyond basic manual operation.
What documentation is typically required when importing sewing machines under HS code 8452.21?
Standard import documentation for HS code 8452.21 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 necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also ensure compliance with any safety or electrical standards certifications required by the destination country.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, impact the duty calculation for HS 8452.21?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods originating from member countries. For instance, if a sewing machine classified under 8452.21 is manufactured in a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., USMCA for imports into the US from Canada or Mexico, or an EU FTA for imports into the EU), it may qualify for a preferential duty rate, often 0.00% ad valorem. To benefit, importers must typically provide proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement.
Can you provide a concrete example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 8452.21?
Let's assume a shipment of 'other sewing machines' (HS 8452.21) is imported into the United States from a country with a 3.70% MFN duty rate. If the commercial invoice value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 3.70% (or 0.037) = $370 USD. This $370 would be the ad valorem duty payable. If the tariff also included a specific duty (e.g., per unit), that would be calculated separately and the higher of the two (or a combination, depending on the tariff structure) would apply.