Tariffs and Import Fees
Tariff or duty, the words are used interchangeably, is a tax levied by governments on the value of products imported from one
country into another. Often times sales and/or state taxes, and in some instances customs fees, will be levied as well. The
tariff is assessed at the time of importation along with any other applicable taxes/fees. Tariffs raise the prices of imported
goods, thus making them less competitive within the market of the importing country. Before you export to any country, you
need to determine what the tariff rate is on your product(s) as well as any import fees for that country. The following
information will help you make this determination.
Step 1: Determine your HS or Schedule B Number
The first step required to determine duty and tax information is to identify the
Harmonized System or Schedule B
(Export.gov) number for your product(s).
What you pay for your duties will also depend on the
trade terms
(Export.gov) you have negotiated with your buyer.
Step 2: Determine Tariff Rates
The following links can help you locate specific tariff and tax rates for your product:
For Assistance
Once the Schedule B is determined, please call the Trade Information Center at 1-800-USA-TRADE and an international trade
specialist will assist you in obtaining foreign import fee, duty, and tax information. You may also email a tariff inquiry
(requesting duty and tax information) with HS number(s) to the Trade Information Center at
tic@ita.doc.gov or fax us at (202) 482-4473.