Analysis
HTS 8203.20.60 covers other: other (except parts) under heading 8203 (files, rasps, pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers, metal cutting shears…). US Customs collects import statistics for it under 2 ten-digit suffixes, reported in dozens.
The general rate is 12¢/doz. + 5.5%, a specific or compound duty rather than a simple percentage, so the effective burden depends on the unit value of the goods: cheap goods pay proportionally more than expensive ones. Importers usually convert it to an ad valorem equivalent to compare it with other lines.
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¢/doz. + 5.5%. 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.
For statistics it divides in two: 8203.20.60.30 for pliers and 8203.20.60.60 for other. Both pay the same duty; the suffix records which kind was imported.
The other lines in the same group are 8203.20.20 (pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and…, 4%), 8203.20.40 (other: slip joint pliers, 12%) and 8203.20.80 (other: parts, 4.5%).
Statistical suffixes
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 8203.20.20 | Pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools, and parts thereof: tweezers | 4% |
| 8203.20.40 | Other: slip joint pliers | 12% |
| 8203.20.80 | Other: parts | 4.5% |