HS 940179 Other
Quick Answer: Chairs and other seats imported under HS 940179 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with rates varying significantly, including free entry and up to 45% ad valorem. This residual classification, "Other," applies to seats not specifically covered by preceding subheadings within heading 9401, provided they are not of base metal with a textile covering. Importers should exercise caution as the broad nature of this code can lead to diverse tariff treatments across jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding the precise product description is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9401790000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9401790000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 94017900 | Free | — | — |
| 9401790002 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9401790004 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9401790011 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9401790025 | — | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 940179 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" seats of heading 9401, specifically those not covered by the preceding subheadings within 9401. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes seats with metal frames, such as folding chairs, stacking chairs, and stools, that are not upholstered or are upholstered with materials other than leather or composition leather. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database further clarify this by excluding specific types of seating, focusing on general-purpose metal-framed seating not otherwise specified.
What falls outside HS 940179?
The following products are excluded from HS 940179: seats specifically designed for motor vehicles (HS 9401.20), seats of cane, osier, bamboo, or similar materials (HS 9401.51 and 9401.59), seats of wood (HS 9401.61 and 9401.69), and seats upholstered with leather or composition leather (HS 9401.71). Additionally, specialized seating like dental chairs (HS 9402.10) or barber chairs (HS 9402.10) are classified elsewhere, as are sleeping bags (HS 9404.30).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 940179?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation, leading to the incorrect classification of upholstered seats with metal frames. For instance, seats upholstered with genuine leather are classified under HS 9401.71, not 9401.79. Importers may also overlook the specific exclusions for seats made from materials like wood or cane. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System is crucial to ensure the primary characteristic of the seat determines its classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 940179?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 940179 involves a multi-step process. First, determine if the seat falls under any of the more specific subheadings within heading 9401, such as those for wood, cane, or specific upholstery materials. If it is a seat with a metal frame and does not fit these specific categories, and is not otherwise excluded, then HS 940179 is likely applicable. Reviewing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 940179?
A set of 100 metal folding chairs, each weighing 5 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 0.0% ad valorem and a specific duty of $1.00 per piece, resulting in a total duty of (0.0% × $2,000) + (100 × $1.00) = $100.00, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, assuming no other duties apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 940179?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 940179, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam, potentially reducing duties to Free. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required, depending on the origin country and the specific agreement's rules.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 940179, and how are they determined?
HS code 940179, which covers 'Other seats (excluding those of heading 9402), whether or not convertible into beds, and parts thereof: Other: Other,' often has varying duty rates depending on the importing country's tariff schedule and the country of origin. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S. might be eligible for duty-free entry. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country and verify the country of origin to determine applicable duties.
How is the import duty for HS code 940179 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 940179, typically assessed on an ad valorem basis, is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of 'other' seats classified under 940179 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350.00. It is crucial to ensure accurate valuation of the imported goods as this forms the basis for duty assessment.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure a product is correctly classified under HS code 940179?
HS code 940179 is an 'Other' category, meaning it is used for seats that do not fit into more specific subheadings within heading 9401. The primary classification criteria revolve around the item being a seat (designed for seating one person, with or without arms, and typically with a backrest) that is not specifically covered elsewhere, such as chairs of wood, metal, or plastics, or seats for motor vehicles. If a seat has features that align it with other specific headings (e.g., medical equipment seats, automotive seats), those more specific codes would take precedence. Importers must carefully review the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 94 of the Harmonized System and the specific tariff laws of the importing country to confirm that the product does not fall under a more precise classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 940179?
Standard import documentation for goods classified under HS code 940179 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Some countries may also require specific product safety or compliance certificates, especially if the seats are intended for commercial or public use. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list of required documents.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 940179, and how can importers verify eligibility?
The eligibility for preferential duty rates for HS code 940179 depends on the specific trade agreements between the exporting and importing countries. For example, if importing into the United States, goods originating from countries party to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might qualify for reduced or zero duties if they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, other bilateral or multilateral trade agreements globally could offer preferential treatment. To verify eligibility, importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, which certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Importers and customs brokers should consult the text of the applicable trade agreement and the customs regulations of the importing country for detailed requirements and procedures.