HS 911220 Cases

Quick Answer: Cases for watches and clocks imported under HS 911220 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US with varied rates including Free, 3.5% ad valorem, and 45% ad valorem depending on the country of origin. This classification specifically covers cases for watches and clocks, excluding those for other types of timekeeping devices. Importers should verify the specific US duty rate based on the product's origin. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of origin for US entries.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9112200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9112200000 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9112204000 3.5% Free (18 programs) ["No."]
911220 — — —
9112208000 5.5% Free (18 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 9112.20?

Imports of Cases 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 16 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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 911220 cover?

This subheading covers cases specifically designed for the packing and transport of clocks and watches, as well as parts and accessories thereof. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these cases are distinct from general-purpose luggage or containers, often featuring specialized compartments or protective linings to safeguard delicate timekeeping mechanisms. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this focus on specialized watch and clock cases, differentiating them from broader categories of containers.

What falls outside HS 911220?

The following products are excluded from HS 911220: general-purpose travel cases, briefcases, handbags, jewelry boxes not specifically designed for clocks or watches, and display cases intended for retail presentation rather than transport. For instance, a leather attaché case for documents, even if it could theoretically hold a watch, would be classified under Chapter 42 as a travel article. Similarly, a wooden box for storing various collectibles would not fall under this heading, as its primary design is not for clocks or watches.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 911220?

A common error is misclassifying general-purpose containers or decorative boxes as watch and clock cases. This often occurs when the container has some superficial resemblance to a watch case but lacks the specialized internal fittings or protective features mandated by Section XI, Note 1(a) of the Harmonized System, which emphasizes the intended use and construction. Importers may also incorrectly classify cases that are primarily for displaying watches in a retail environment, rather than for their secure transport or storage.

How should importers classify products under HS 911220?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 911220 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, materials, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain if the case is specifically manufactured to house and protect clocks or watches. Consulting the official Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. Verification of any specialized internal compartments or padding designed for timepieces is a key step.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 911220?

A luxury watch travel case made of leather, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $200 USD = $10.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 9112.20.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 911220?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 911220, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Japan. To claim preference under USMCA, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required, while CPTPP may necessitate a declaration of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 911120 HS 911180 HS 911110 HS 911290 HS 911320 HS 911190

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 911220 (Cases for clocks and watches)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 911220 is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), Mexico (MX), and Singapore (SG) may receive a Free (0.00%) duty rate under specific trade agreements, provided all rules of origin are met. It is crucial to consult the relevant trade agreement and verify origin documentation.

What classification criteria distinguish HS code 911220 from other 'Cases' codes?

HS code 911220 specifically covers 'Cases, cases and similar containers, of base metal, for clocks and watches'. The key differentiator is that these cases must be intended for the manufacture or assembly of clocks and watches. Cases for other types of goods, even if made of base metal, would fall under different HS codes (e.g., Chapter 71 for precious metal cases, or other chapters depending on the intended use and material).

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 911220?

Standard import documentation for HS code 911220 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. If preferential duty rates are claimed, a Certificate of Origin or proof of origin is mandatory, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin for the specific trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical data sheets if requested by customs to verify the classification.

How is the duty calculated for HS code 911220, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 911220 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and an importer declares a shipment of watch cases valued at $10,000 USD, the calculated duty would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270.00 USD. If the goods qualify for a Free (0.00%) rate under a trade agreement, the duty would be $0.00.

Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 911220?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 911220. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like South Korea (US-Korea Free Trade Agreement) and Australia (AUSFTA) that may offer reduced or zero duties. The European Union's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff list numerous preferential rates under agreements with countries such as Canada, Chile, and various EFTA states. Always verify the specific agreement and ensure compliance with its rules of origin.