Analysis
HTS 8203.20.40 covers other: slip joint pliers under heading 8203 (files, rasps, pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers, metal cutting shears…).
Neighbouring lines carry rates from 4% to 4.5%, so the exact line matters. The widest gap is with 8203.20.20 (pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar…), at 4%: a product that belongs there but is entered here, or the reverse, changes the duty by 8 percentage points.
Goods that qualify under GSP, the Australia FTA, the Bahrain FTA, the Chile FTA, the Colombia TPA, and 12 others can enter duty-free instead of paying 12%. It is also eligible under GSP, the developing-country programme, which Congress has to renew; check whether GSP is in force on the entry date.
The general duty rate is 12% of the customs value, which is among the highest the rates in chapter 82 (98th percentile of 95 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $1,200 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
The column 2 rate, for countries without normal trade relations, is 60%, 5.0 times the general rate.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 8203.20.20 | Pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools, and parts thereof: tweezers | 4% |
| 8203.20.60 | Other: other (except parts) | 12¢/doz. + 5.5% |
| 8203.20.80 | Other: parts | 4.5% |