HS 961320 Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, refillable
Quick Answer: Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, refillable, imported under HS 961320 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 9% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification specifically covers lighters that use a gaseous fuel, are designed to be refilled, and are typically small enough for pocket use. Importers should be aware of potential excise duties or taxes that may apply in addition to customs duties, depending on the specific jurisdiction. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist with compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613200000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613200000 | 9% | 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 9613.20?
Imports of Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, refillable 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 961320 cover?
This subheading covers pocket lighters that are fueled by gas and are designed to be refilled. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these lighters are characterized by their portable size, intended for personal use, and their ability to be replenished with fuel. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this category specifically includes devices like disposable refillable butane lighters and reusable gas lighters, excluding those that are disposable and not refillable.
What falls outside HS 961320?
The following products are excluded from HS 961320: pocket lighters that are not gas-fueled, such as those using liquid fuel (e.g., Zippo-style lighters classified under 961310), and lighters that are not refillable (also classified under 961310). Additionally, larger, non-pocket-sized gas-fueled lighters, such as barbecue or stove lighters, are classified under HS 961380. Electric lighters, which operate without a flame, are typically classified under HS 961380 or other headings depending on their specific design and function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 961320?
A common error is misclassifying disposable, non-refillable lighters under HS 961320. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. For HS 9613, subheading 961310 specifically covers "Disposable lighters, non-refillable," while 961320 is strictly for "Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, refillable." Importers may also mistakenly classify larger, non-pocket-sized gas lighters under this subheading, overlooking the specific "pocket" descriptor.
How should importers classify products under HS 961320?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 961320 involves a two-step process. First, determine if the product is a pocket lighter and if it is gas-fueled. Second, ascertain if the lighter is designed to be refilled. If both conditions are met, it falls under 961320. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 9613 to ensure accurate classification. A product brochure or manufacturer's specifications can be invaluable for verification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 961320?
A shipment of 1,000 "Bic J26" refillable pocket lighters, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $500 = $25.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 9613.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 961320?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 961320, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible lighters originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement is required. Additionally, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries, with documentation requirements varying by jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 961320 (Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, refillable)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 961320 is typically 2.70%. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from countries with trade agreements. For example, imports from Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%) under various trade agreements, provided all rules of origin are met. Always verify the specific preferential rate applicable to your country of origin using official tariff databases like the USITC Tariff Tool or the EU TARIC system.
What specific criteria define a 'pocket lighter, gas fuelled, refillable' under HS code 961320?
HS code 961320 specifically covers pocket lighters that are designed to be carried in the pocket and are fueled by liquefied gas (such as butane or propane) and are refillable. This excludes disposable lighters (classified under 9613.10) and lighters that operate on other fuels or are not refillable. The key distinguishing features are portability, gas fuel, and the ability to be refilled.
How is the import duty for HS 961320 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 961320 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and you import 1,000 pocket lighters valued at $2.00 each, the total declared value is $2,000. The import duty would be calculated as: $2,000 (total value) × 2.70% (duty rate) = $54.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties per unit in addition to or instead of ad valorem duties, so always check the specific tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required when importing pocket lighters under HS code 961320?
Standard import documentation for HS code 961320 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the country of origin, additional documentation may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially safety certifications or declarations to ensure compliance with consumer product safety standards, as lighters are considered potentially hazardous items.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS code 961320?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 961320. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and others with countries such as Chile, South Korea, and Australia, which often include provisions for reduced or duty-free entry for certain goods, including lighters, if they meet the rules of origin. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) also offer preferential rates to eligible countries. Importers should consult the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs authority or tariff database (e.g., EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to confirm eligibility and specific rates.