HS 848020 Mould bases
Quick Answer: Mould bases imported under HS 848020 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at 3.4% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification covers the fundamental framework or structure of moulds used in manufacturing processes, typically comprising plates, columns, and other components that form the housing for mould inserts. Importers should be aware of potential variations in preferential duty treatment across jurisdictions. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-specific rates and any applicable trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8480200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8480200000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8480200000 | 3.4% | 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 8480.20?
Imports of Mould bases 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 848020 cover?
This subheading covers mould bases, which are essential components for the manufacturing of plastic or metal articles through molding processes. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, mould bases are typically pre-fabricated frames or structures designed to hold interchangeable mould inserts. They provide the structural support and guiding mechanisms necessary for the injection, compression, or casting of materials into desired shapes.
What falls outside HS 848020?
The following products are excluded from HS 848020: complete moulds with their inserts, which are classified under HS 8480.41 to 8480.79 depending on the material being molded or the type of mould. Also excluded are individual mould inserts, spare parts for mould bases that do not constitute the base itself, and machinery for working rubber or plastics that incorporates a mould but is primarily a machine tool, such as injection molding machines (HS 8477).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 848020?
A common error is the misclassification of complete moulds as mould bases. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a mould base is supplied with its mould inserts already fitted and ready for immediate use in molding, it may be considered a complete mould and thus fall under a more specific subheading within 8480.41 to 8480.79.
How should importers classify products under HS 848020?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 848020 involves a careful examination of the product's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the item is solely a mould base or if it includes the mould inserts. Consulting the official descriptions and notes within the relevant jurisdiction's tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the product is a pre-fabricated frame designed to hold interchangeable mould inserts, it likely falls under 848020.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 848020?
A steel mould base weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $5,000 USD = $250.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically under HTSUS subheading 8480.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 848020?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 848020, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating mould bases from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, preferential rates may apply under other agreements for originating goods from countries like South Korea, subject to specific documentation such as a Certificate of Origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 8480.20 (Mould bases)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8480.20, covering 'Mould bases', is typically 3.4% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries not covered by preferential trade agreements. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin with the relevant customs authority, such as the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for US imports or the EU TARIC database for EU imports.
How are preferential duty rates applied to HS code 8480.20?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 8480.20 are available for goods imported from countries that have specific trade agreements with the importing country. For example, under certain agreements, imports from countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) may receive a duty rate of Free. To claim these preferential rates, importers must provide proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin, and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., UK Trade Tariff, USITC) for a comprehensive list of preferential rates and their conditions.
What defines a 'mould base' for classification under HS code 8480.20?
Under HS code 8480.20, 'mould bases' generally refer to the component parts of moulds, specifically the frame or structure that holds the mould cavity inserts and core inserts. These are typically precision-machined metal plates or assemblies designed to provide support, alignment, and ejection mechanisms for the mould. Classification hinges on whether the item is primarily a structural component for a mould, rather than a complete mould with cavities or cores for shaping specific articles. For definitive guidance, refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) or national customs rulings.
How is the import duty for a mould base calculated using a 3.4% ad valorem rate?
The duty for a mould base classified under HS 8480.20 with a 3.4% ad valorem rate is calculated based on the customs value of the imported goods. The customs value is generally the transaction value, which includes the price paid or payable for the goods, plus certain other costs like shipping and insurance up to the point of importation.
Example Calculation: Assume a mould base has a customs value of $10,000 USD. Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 3.4% Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 0.034 Duty Amount = $340 USD
Importers and customs brokers must ensure accurate valuation and correct application of the duty rate.
What documentation is typically required for importing mould bases (HS 8480.20) under preferential trade agreements?
When importing mould bases (HS 8480.20) and claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, specific documentation is crucial. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and importantly, a preferential Certificate of Origin. The Certificate of Origin must be issued by the exporter or manufacturer and certified by the competent authority of the exporting country, or it may be self-certified by the exporter if the trade agreement allows. This document validates that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Importers should consult the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement and the customs authority of the importing country for precise documentation needs.