HS 901832 Tubular metal needles and needles for sutures
Quick Answer: Tubular metal needles and needles for sutures imported under HS 901832 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at 55% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers hollow metal needles designed for medical or surgical use, including those intended for suturing. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential for US entry, which may necessitate careful consideration of sourcing and landed cost calculations. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific national tariff schedules for precise application.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018329000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018320000 | — | — | — |
| 9018321000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018320000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018321000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018329000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018320000 | 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 901832 cover?
This subheading covers tubular metal needles and needles for sutures, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Official interpretations, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, clarify that this includes hollow needles designed for medical or surgical use, as well as those specifically intended for suturing wounds. The key characteristic is their tubular metal construction and their application in medical procedures or wound closure.
What falls outside HS 901832?
The following products are excluded from HS 901832: solid metal needles not designed for medical or suturing purposes, such as sewing machine needles (typically classified under HS 8452), knitting needles (HS 6308), or hypodermic needles with integrated plastic syringes (often classified under HS 901831). Needles made from materials other than metal, or those not intended for medical or surgical use, are also excluded and would be classified under different headings based on their specific characteristics and intended function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901832?
A common error is misclassifying needles based solely on their material without considering their intended use. For instance, solid metal needles used for crafts or industrial applications are not covered by this subheading. Furthermore, confusion can arise with hypodermic needles that are part of a complete syringe assembly; these are generally classified under HS 901831, not 901832, as per General Rule of Interpretation 1 (GRI 1) which prioritizes the essential character of the good.
How should importers classify products under HS 901832?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901832 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff) and the WCO Explanatory Notes. Verification of whether the needle is tubular metal and specifically designed for medical or suturing applications is paramount. Product literature and manufacturer declarations are crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901832?
A shipment of 10,000 sterile, tubular metal surgical needles, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.02 = $10.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, where HS 901832 typically carries a 2.0% MFN duty rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901832?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901832, 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, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 901832, 'Tubular metal needles and needles for sutures'?
The duty rates for HS code 901832 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 0.00%. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country at the time of import, as rates can change.
What specific criteria define a product for classification under HS code 901832?
HS code 901832 specifically covers 'Tubular metal needles and needles for sutures'. This means the product must be made of metal and be tubular in form, or be a needle specifically designed for surgical suturing. It excludes non-tubular needles, needles made of materials other than metal, and needles for non-medical applications (e.g., sewing machine needles, which fall under Chapter 63).
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 901832?
When importing goods under HS code 901832, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the medical device, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, and potentially a declaration from the manufacturer or importer confirming compliance with medical device regulations in the destination country. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing nation.
How are import duties calculated for HS code 901832, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty depends on the duty rate applied by the importing country. If the duty is an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value), the calculation is straightforward. For instance, if HS code 901832 has a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate and you import a shipment valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be $10,000 USD * 3.5% = $350 USD. If the duty is based on quantity (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be rate per unit × number of units. As many countries list a 0.00% or Free rate for this specific code, the duty payable may be zero, but customs duties and taxes (like VAT or GST) may still apply.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 901832?
Many bilateral and multilateral trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for products classified under HS code 901832. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's trade agreements with third countries may benefit from reduced or zero duties. Similarly, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods meeting the rules of origin can enter with preferential treatment. Importers should always verify the rules of origin and specific tariff provisions within applicable trade agreements to determine eligibility for preferential rates.