HS code for utility knife
The U.S. HS code for an utility knife is usually 8211.93.00.60 (retractable), with a general duty of 3¢ each + 5.4% and an estimated total of 17.9% from China and 17.9% 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 42.9% 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retractable | 8211.93.00.60 | 3¢ each + 5.4% | 17.9% |
- 8211.93.00.60: Knives having other than fixed blades / Other (including parts)
What decides the code
A utility knife with a retractable blade is a knife with other than a fixed blade under heading 8211, classified in 8211.93.00.60.
- The blade retracts into the handle, so the knife has other than a fixed blade and falls under 8211.93.
- The cutting blade is base metal, which keeps the article in heading 8211 rather than a plastic or ceramic goods heading.
- It is a knife with a cutting blade, not a razor blade blank or a machine part, so heading 8211 applies.
Common mistakes
- Classifying under 8211.94 is wrong because that subheading covers blades and base metal parts, not the complete retractable knife.
- Classifying under heading 8208 is wrong because 8211 covers knives other than those of heading 8208, which is for machine and appliance blades.
- Classifying under 8211.92 is wrong because that line covers knives with fixed blades, and this knife retracts.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 17.9% = 3¢ each + 5.4% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 42.9%.
- Vietnam
- 17.9% = 3¢ each + 5.4% general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 8211.93.00.60, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Retractable
- CN 8211 93 00, 8.5%
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 an utility knife?
The U.S. HTS code for an utility knife is usually 8211.93.00.60 (retractable). The first six digits, 8211.93, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on an utility knife from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 8211.93.00.60 is 3¢ each + 5.4%. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 17.9% 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 17.9%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
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.