HS code for tape measure
The U.S. HS code for a tape measure is usually 9017.80.00.00 (steel tape), with a 5.3% general duty and an estimated total of 17.8% from China and 17.8% 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 42.8% in total. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel tape | 9017.80.00.00 | 5.3% | 17.8% |
- 9017.80.00.00: Other instruments
What decides the code
A steel tape measure is a hand-held length measuring instrument classified under heading 9017, specifically subheading 9017.80.00.00 for other instruments.
- The tape is an instrument for measuring length used in the hand, which places it in heading 9017.
- The tape is made of steel, so it is not a textile measuring tape of chapter 5808 or 6307.
- It is not a drawing, marking-out or calculating instrument, so it falls to the residual subheading 9017.80.00.00.
Common mistakes
- Classifying a steel tape measure under 9017.20 is wrong because that subheading covers drafting and marking-out instruments, not hand measuring tapes.
- Classifying it under 8205 is wrong because that heading covers hand tools such as rules and squares, not retractable measuring tapes.
- Classifying it under 9031 is wrong because that heading covers measuring or checking instruments not specified elsewhere, and heading 9017 already covers hand measuring tapes.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 17.8% = 5.3% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 42.8%.
- Vietnam
- 17.8% = 5.3% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 9017.80.00.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Steel tape
- CN 9017 80 10, 2.7%
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 a tape measure?
The U.S. HTS code for a tape measure is usually 9017.80.00.00 (steel tape). The first six digits, 9017.80, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on a tape measure from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 9017.80.00.00 is 5.3%. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 17.8% of customs value. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 17.8%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
- 9017.80.00.00Other instruments
- Heading 9017Drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments (for example, drafting machines, pantographs, protractors, drawing sets, slide rules, disc calculators); instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand (for example, measuring rods and tapes, micrometers, calipers), not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts and accessories 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.