US Import Duty Estimator

Estimate US import duties and taxes for your imported products. This tool helps you calculate customs duties based on product value, HS code, and country of origin.

Duty Calculator

Duty Calculation
Dutiable Value: $0.00
Calculated Duty: $0.00
Total Fees
Merchandise Processing Fee: $0.00
Harbor Maintenance Fee: $0.00
Total Import Fees: $0.00

How Import Duties Are Calculated

US import duties are calculated based on the product's value, HS code classification, and country of origin. The primary formula uses the dutiable value multiplied by the applicable duty rate.

Duty = Dutiable Value × Duty Rate

Where:

  • Dutiable Value = Product Value + Freight + Insurance
  • Duty Rate = HS code specific percentage (0-37.5%)

Real Example: Import Duty Calculation

Let's calculate import duties for a shipment with these parameters:

  • Product Value: $1,000
  • Freight Cost: $150
  • Insurance: $5
  • Duty Rate: 7.5%

Step 1: Dutiable Value = $1,000 + $150 + $5 = $1,155
Step 2: Duty = $1,155 × 7.5% = $86.63
Step 3: MPF = min($1,155 × 0.3464%, $497) = $4.00
Step 4: HMF = $1,155 × 0.125% = $1.44
Total: $86.63 + $4.00 + $1.44 = $92.07

Key Factors That Impact Import Duties

Several variables significantly affect your import duties:

  • HS Code: Determines the duty rate (critical classification)
  • Country of Origin: Affects eligibility for trade agreements
  • Product Value: Higher value means higher duties
  • Trade Agreements: USMCA, GSP, and other agreements can reduce duties

What This Calculator Doesn't Include

This tool provides estimates. You should also consider:

  • Section 301 Tariffs: Additional duties on Chinese goods (7.5-25%)
  • Antidumping/Countervailing Duties: For specific products
  • State/Local Taxes: Sales tax may apply upon entry
  • Broker Fees: Customs broker charges (typically $100-300)

FAQ About US Import Duties

How do I find my HS code?
Use the USITC HTSUS database or work with a customs broker. Your product's material, function, and composition determine the correct HS code classification.
What is the MPF fee?
MPF (Merchandise Processing Fee) is a US customs fee: 0.3464% of dutiable value, minimum $27.75, maximum $497. It funds customs processing operations.
Do I need a customs broker?
For most commercial imports, a customs broker is recommended. They handle documentation, classification, and ensure compliance with complex import regulations.
Are there duty-free thresholds?
For personal use, there's a $800 de minimis threshold. Commercial imports have no general duty-free threshold, though some products qualify for duty-free treatment under trade agreements.

How US Import Duties are Calculated

US import duties are calculated based on the dutiable value of the goods, which includes the product cost, freight, and insurance. The duty rate is determined by the Harmonized System (HS) code of the product.

Dutiable Value

The dutiable value is generally the transaction value of the goods, which is the price paid or payable for the merchandise when sold for export to the United States. This includes the cost of the goods, freight, and insurance.

Additional Fees

  • Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): A fee based on the value of the merchandise, typically 0.3464% of the dutiable value with a minimum of $27.23 and maximum of $528.33
  • Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of the value of cargo imported by vessel

FAQ

What is an HS code?
The Harmonized System (HS) code is an international standardized system for classifying traded products. It's used to determine applicable duty rates and trade regulations.
Do I need to pay duty on all imports?
Most imports are subject to duty, but there are exceptions. Goods valued at $800 or less (de minimis value) may enter duty-free. Some countries have special trade agreements.
What about Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods?
Certain Chinese goods may be subject to additional Section 301 tariffs. Check the official USTR website for the most current list of affected products.

Data Sources & Policy References

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on user-provided data. Actual duties may vary based on HS code classification, country of origin, and current trade policies. Always verify with US Customs for accurate calculations.