Blades

Subheading 8211 94 of the Combined Nomenclature covers blades for knives, sold separately as replaceable parts without a handle or holder. This category includes blades for utility knives (box cutters, wallpaper knives), craft knives, bookbinding knives, leatherworking knives, rubber-cutting knives and scalpel-type blades used in modelmaking and crafts. Segmented snap-off blades used in retractable utility knives also fall under this subheading. The defining characteristic is replaceability: the blade is designed to be fitted into and used in a reusable handle, and is not itself a complete, ready-to-use knife. Blades are generally made of carbon steel or high-speed steel and may carry anti-corrosion or edge-retention coatings. The distinction between subheading 8211 94 and razor blades under heading 8212 rests on intended use: blades classified under 8211 94 are designed for cutting technical or craft materials, not for shaving. Where blades are imported together with matching holders forming a complete ready-to-use knife, the classification of the set may differ from that of the blades alone. In cases of doubt regarding the correct classification, importers should obtain Binding Tariff Information ruling from the competent customs authority.

Importing replaceable knife blades classified under subheading 8211 94 into the European Union requires compliance with the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). Importers must hold a valid EORI number and submit an electronic customs declaration with the correct CN code. Required documents include a commercial invoice describing the goods (blade type, material, dimensions and intended use), a transport document, a packing list and a technical specification. Replaceable knife blades are subject to the REACH Regulation with respect to restricted substances in steel articles, particularly coatings and binding agents. Consumer goods must comply with the general product safety requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2023/988. Scalpel-type blades intended for medical use may be classified as medical devices and fall within the scope of Regulation (EU) 2017/745 (MDR); importers should assess the intended use of the product before determining the applicable regulatory regime. Where blades are packaged together with handles as a complete knife, classification may shift to the relevant subheading for complete knives. Current documentary requirements and trade measures should be verified in the European Commission TARIC database.

MFN customs duty rates for goods classified under subheading 8211 94 must be verified in the European Commission TARIC database, as they are subject to periodic revision. Preferential rates may be available under EU free trade agreements concluded 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. Eligibility for a preferential rate requires a valid proof of origin - EUR.1 movement certificate, invoice declaration or REX statement - and compliance with the applicable rules of origin. Importers should check in TARIC whether any anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply to the country of origin and subheading 8211 94. Imports from Russia and Belarus may be subject to restrictions under EU sanctions packages. Goods classified under Chapter 82 are not subject to the CBAM mechanism. VAT at the rate applicable in the importing member state is payable in addition to customs duties. All applicable duty rates and trade measures should be verified in TARIC prior to each import transaction.

CN code 8211 94 covers replaceable knife 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.