HS code for pliers
The U.S. HS code for pliers is usually 8203.20.60.30 (hand tool), with a general duty of 12¢/doz. + 5.5% and an estimated total of 18% from China and 18% from Vietnam once additional duties are added.
Estimates use tariff data as of October 22, 2026. The China and Vietnam estimates include Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%). From China, Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply, up to 43% in total. The general rate also has a per unit part that is not in the percentages. Classifications and duty estimates are guidance based on the published HTSUS. The importer of record is responsible for the final classification.
Codes by variant
| Variant | HTS code | General duty | Est. from China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand tool | 8203.20.60.30 | 12¢/doz. + 5.5% | 18% |
- 8203.20.60.30: Pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools, and parts thereof / Pliers
What decides the code
Pliers are classified as base metal handtools under heading 8203, specifically in subheading 8203.20.60.30 for pliers other than parts.
- The article is a hand tool with jaws for gripping or cutting, which places it in heading 8203 as pliers and similar tools.
- The tool is a complete plier rather than a part, so it falls in the residual plier line 8203.20.60.30 instead of a parts provision.
- Base metal construction supports classification in heading 8203, which covers base metal handtools and their base metal parts.
Common mistakes
- Classifying pliers in 8203.20.40 as nippers or pincers is wrong when the tool is a gripping plier rather than a pincer.
- Putting pliers in 8205 as other handtools is wrong because heading 8203 names pliers directly.
- Classifying pliers as parts under a parts subheading is wrong when the item is a finished, usable tool.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 18% = 12¢/doz. + 5.5% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 43%.
- Vietnam
- 18% = 12¢/doz. + 5.5% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 8203.20.60.30, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Hand tool
- CN 8203 20 00, 1.7%
EU Combined Nomenclature 2026, third-country (erga omnes) duty. Preferential rates and EU trade remedy duties are not included.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for pliers?
The U.S. HTS code for pliers is usually 8203.20.60.30 (hand tool). The first six digits, 8203.20, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on pliers from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 8203.20.60.30 is 12¢/doz. + 5.5%. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 18% of customs value plus the specific duty. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 18%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
- 8203.20.60.30Pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools, and parts thereof / Pliers
- Heading 8203Files, rasps, pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers, metal cutting shears, pipe cutters, bolt cutters, perforating punches and similar handtools, and base metal parts thereof
Related products
Codes checked against the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule retrieved October 22, 2026. Additional duties reviewed October 22, 2026. This is an estimate: the importer of record is responsible for classification.