How to Calculate the Customs Duty Rate for Your Products from China to the United States

When importing goods from China to the U.S., U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assesses duties based on the product type, value, and origin. Miscalculating these fees can lead to: 

• Higher shipping costs 

• Delays in customs clearance 

• Unexpected charges affecting profit margins 

By accurately estimating import taxes and duties, you can price your products competitively and avoid surprises. 

The Harmonized System (HS) code is a standardized classification used globally to identify products for customs tariff calculation. The U.S. uses a 10-digit version called the HTS code (Harmonized Tariff Schedule). 

How to Find the Correct HS/HTS Code: 

1. Check the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) database (https://hts.usitc.gov/). 

2. Use online HS code lookup tools (e.g., China’s Customs website or third-party databases). 

3. Consult a freight forwarder or customs broker for assistance. 

Example: If you’re importing wireless headphones, the HTS code might be 8517.62.0090, which determines the applicable duty rate.

Once you have the correct HTS code, check the U.S. import duty rate for your product. The U.S. has different duty structures, including: 

• Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates (standard rates for WTO members, including China) 

• Section 301 tariffs (additional duties on certain Chinese goods due to trade policies) 

• Free Trade Agreement (FTA) exemptions (if applicable) 

Where to Find Duty Rates: 

• USITC HTS Search Tool (https://hts.usitc.gov/) 

• CBP’s duty calculator 

• Trade compliance software (e.g., Descartes, Flexport) 

Example: If your product falls under HTS 8517.62.0090, the base duty rate might be 3.9%, but Section 301 tariffs could add 25%, making the total duty 28.9%. 

U.S. customs duties are calculated based on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of the shipment. This includes: 

• Product cost (invoice value) 

• Shipping charges (freight cost to the U.S.) 

• Insurance fees (if applicable) 

Formula: 
Customs Value = Product Cost + Shipping + Insurance 

Example: 

• Product cost: $5,000 

• Shipping: $800 

• Insurance: $50 

• Total dutiable value = $5,850 

Multiply the customs value by the duty rate to estimate your total duty cost. 

Formula: 
Duty Fee = Customs Value × Duty Rate 

Example: 

• Customs value: $5,850 

• Duty rate: 3.9% 

• Duty fee = $5,850 × 0.039 = $228.15 

If Section 301 tariffs apply (25% additional): 

• Additional duty = $5,850 × 0.25 = $1,462.50 

• Total duty = $228.15 + $1,462.50 = $1,690.65 

Besides duties, you may also need to pay: 

• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) – 0.3464% of the customs value (min $27.23, max $538.40) 

• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) – 0.125% for ocean shipments 

• Sales tax/VAT (varies by state) 

1. Use Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) – Some goods may qualify for reduced rates under trade deals. 

2. Adjust product classification – Ensure the correct HS code to avoid overpaying. 

3. Consider de minimis value – Shipments under $800 are generally duty-free (for personal/business use). 

4. Work with a customs broker – They can help optimize duty costs and ensure compliance. 

Calculating customs duties for shipments from China to the U.S. is essential for Amazon FBA sellers, Shopify store owners, and Walmart Marketplace vendors. By following these steps—finding the correct HS code, checking duty rates, calculating CIF value, and applying fees—you can avoid unexpected costs and streamline your international logistics. 

Need help with shipping from China to the U.S.? Easy China Warehouse offers customs clearance assistance, freight forwarding, and fulfillment solutions to make global trade easier. 

Have questions about importing from China? Contact us today for expert support!