Planning Use SEO page 166

HTS code for hand tool: document tool type, function, and set contents

Planning Use only. Broker review required for Entry Use.

"Hand tool" is a starting point, not a classification. The product could be pliers, wrench, screwdriver, knife, file, clamp, hammer, measuring tool, garden hand tool, interchangeable bit, repair kit, or mixed household tool set. The file needs the actual tool function.

Use this page to prepare a Planning Use record before broker review. The record should show tool type, material, hand-operated function, interchangeable parts, set contents, case, origin, and supplier code.

quick answer

For "hts code for hand tool", collect tool type, hand-operated function, working end, material, handle material, adjustable or interchangeable features, power-tool compatibility, set contents, case, origin, and supplier code.

A pair of pliers is not the same file as a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, bit set, garden trowel, utility knife, scraper, measuring gauge, repair kit, or multi-tool. The candidate path depends on the specific tool and imported contents.

facts to collect for hand tool

Collect:

Product name, SKU, invoice wording, product page, and packaging copy.
Photos of each tool, working end, handles, labels, size markings, case, and packaging.
Tool type: pliers, wrench, screwdriver, hammer, file, saw, clamp, scraper, knife, garden tool, measuring tool, bit, or repair kit.
Function: gripping, cutting, striking, turning, scraping, measuring, drilling accessory, fastening, pruning, or assembly.
Materials: carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, aluminum, plastic handle, rubber grip, wood handle, coating, or carbide edge.
Whether parts are interchangeable, adjustable, ratcheting, insulated, measuring, or compatible with power tools.
Set contents, sizes, piece count, cases, holders, instructions, and spare parts.
Country of origin and production support.
Supplier HS or HTS code and source notes.

If the shipment is a mixed tool kit, make a component table. Do not let the kit name hide different tool categories.

missing facts

Mark the record incomplete when:

The actual tool type is not identified.
Hand tools and power-tool accessories are mixed.
Set contents and piece counts are missing.
Material is described only as "metal."
Working end, handle, and function are not shown.
Case, pouch, spare parts, or adapters are visible but not listed.
Origin is assumed from the retail brand.
Similar CBP CROSS rulings for the specific tool family, hand-tool sets, cases, and interchangeable tools have not been checked.

These gaps can move the review between different hand-tool provisions, interchangeable tools, measuring tools, cutting tools, sets, and cases.

HTS candidate notes

Build candidate rows for the actual import: pliers, wrench, screwdriver, hammer, file, scraper, utility knife, garden hand tool, measuring tool, bit set, repair kit, case, or mixed hand-tool set. Each row should cite function, material, and contents.

Rejected paths should remain visible. If the supplier code says "hand tool" but the goods are driver bits for a power drill, mark that mismatch. If the case is substantial, include it in the set review.

authority sources

Use USITC HTS for tariff text. Use CBP CROSS for the specific hand-tool family, tool sets, repair kits, interchangeable tools, and cases. Use 19 CFR 177.2 for evidence completeness.

planning path

Start by naming the tool. Then document function and materials. A broad "hand tool" query should become a specific record before broker review.

For duty exposure, mixed kits need item-level facts. A household repair set may include pliers, screwdrivers, bits, tape measure, knife, and case under one retail SKU.

questions importers ask

Can I use this page as the HTS code for hand tool?

No. Use it for Planning Use. Entry Use needs broker or customs authority review.

Is "hand tool" specific enough?

No. The record should name the tool type and function.

What if the SKU is a mixed kit?

List each tool, accessory, case, and spare part before review.

internal links

planning boundary

This hand tool HTS page is a planning artifact. It is not an Entry Use classification, not a binding ruling, and not a legal opinion. The importer remains responsible for reasonable care and must obtain broker or customs authority review before filing.

Turn this search into a file

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