Knives having other than fixed blades

Subheading 8211 93 of the Combined Nomenclature covers knives with at least one folding blade, including penknives, folding knives, survival knives with a blade that folds into or along the handle, and multitool devices whose principal function is a folding knife blade. The defining characteristic of goods classified under this subheading is the folding mechanism, which allows the blade or blades to be retracted into the handle for safe carrying and storage. Blades may be plain-edged, serrated or combination, and are typically made of stainless steel, carbon steel or high-alloy steel. Handles are manufactured from a wide range of materials including base metals, aluminium, plastics, wood, bone or synthetic composites. Single-blade penknives, multi-blade jack-knives and complex folding knives with additional tools such as bottle openers, screwdrivers or small saws all fall within this subheading, provided the main component remains a folding knife blade. Classification of multitools with many additional functions is governed by the General Rules of Interpretation, in particular Rule 3b or 3c, depending on the essential character. Where there is doubt as to the correct classification of a particular folding knife or multitool, importers should seek Binding Tariff Information ruling from the competent customs authority.

Importing goods classified under subheading 8211 93 into the European Union requires compliance with the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). Importers must hold a valid EORI number and lodge an electronic customs declaration with the correct CN code. Required documents include a commercial invoice describing the goods (type of knife, blade length, blade and handle materials), a transport document (CMR, bill of lading or air waybill), a packing list and a technical specification. Folding knives with locking mechanisms may be subject to national weapons and dangerous instruments legislation in the country of destination and any transit countries. Importers are responsible for verifying applicable domestic laws on permitted blade length, locking mechanisms and any licensing requirements before shipping. Within the EU, metal goods falling under Chapter 82 must comply with REACH Regulation restrictions on hazardous substances in articles, including nickel restrictions for items intended to come into prolonged contact with skin. Consumer products must satisfy general product safety requirements under Regulation (EU) 2023/988. Current trade measures and documentation requirements should be verified in the European Commission TARIC database before each import operation.

MFN customs duty rates for goods classified under subheading 8211 93 must be verified in the European Commission TARIC database, as they are subject to periodic amendments resulting from EU tariff decisions. Preferential rates may be available under EU free trade agreements with Japan (EPA), South Korea, Canada (CETA), the United Kingdom (TCA) and under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries and the EBA initiative for least developed countries. To benefit from a preferential rate, the importer must hold a valid proof of origin such as a EUR.1 movement certificate, an invoice declaration or a REX statement of origin, and must demonstrate that the applicable rules of origin are satisfied. Importers should check in TARIC whether any anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply to the specific country of origin and subheading 8211 93. Imports from Russia and Belarus may be subject to restrictions arising from EU sanctions packages. Goods under Chapter 82 are not subject to the CBAM mechanism. VAT at the rate applicable in the importing member state is charged in addition to customs duties. All applicable rates and trade measures must be verified in TARIC before each import transaction.

CN code 8211 93 covers knives with folding blades. Import into the EU is subject to TARIC duty rates depending on country of origin. Products must comply with relevant EN safety standards and, for food-contact items, Regulation EC 1935/2004. Customs clearance requires a commercial invoice, certificate of origin and manufacturer's declaration of conformity. BTI rulings can help ensure correct classification.