What is HS code 731990 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
731990
Sewing and knitting needles, bodkins, crochet hooks, embroidery stilettos and similar articles, for use in the hand, not elsewhere specified or included, of iron or steel
Heading 7319 — Sewing and knitting needles, bodkins, crochet hooks, embroidery stilettos and similar articles, for use in the hand, of iron or steel; safety pins and other pins of iron or steel, not elsewhere specified or included
Chapter 73: Articles of iron or steel
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 731990 when importing or exporting hand-use sewing and knitting tools made of iron or steel that aren't specified elsewhere. This includes items like crochet hooks and embroidery stilettos.
This code is distinct from HS-6 731940, which specifically covers safety pins and similar fasteners. If your products don't fit those categories but are still hand tools, 731990 is likely the right choice.
When classifying your goods, consider whether they are designed for sewing or knitting. Tools like bodkins or specialty crochet hooks fall under this code, while other metal articles may not.
Ensure your product descriptions are clear and specific. For example, if you're shipping a set of steel knitting needles, use this HS code to avoid classification issues.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
sewing tools · knitting needles · crochet hooks · iron or steel bodkins · embroidery stilettos · hand-use metal tools · safety pins · metal sewing articles · non-specified iron tools · handheld sewing instruments · steel knitting accessories · metal craft tools · iron sewing supplies · knitting accessories · embroidery tools · hand tools for sewing · iron or steel pins
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Set of iron knitting needles for hand use
- Steel crochet hooks in various sizes
- Bodkins made of stainless steel for threading
- Embroidery stilettos crafted from iron
- Metal sewing needles not specified elsewhere
- Hand-held steel tools for fabric manipulation
- Mixed set of sewing and knitting tools made of iron
- Specialty crochet hooks designed for intricate work
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify steel knitting needles?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are crochet hooks covered under HS 731990?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What items fall under HS code 731990?
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Differences between HS 731990 and 731940
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Can I use HS 731990 for metal sewing tools?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are examples of products under HS 731990?
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How to describe items for HS code classification?
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Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to classify hand-held sewing tools made of steel
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Are embroidery stilettos classified under HS 731990?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What types of iron or steel tools are included in HS 731990?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Guidelines for importing knitting needles under HS code
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences in classification for metal sewing accessories
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
What products should I declare under HS 731990?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to ensure correct HS code for sewing tools
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding the classification of crochet hooks and bodkins
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of products are classified under HS 731990?
- HS 731990 includes hand-use sewing and knitting tools made of iron or steel, such as crochet hooks, bodkins, and embroidery stilettos.
- How do I know if my product fits HS code 731990?
- If your product is a hand-held tool for sewing or knitting made of iron or steel and is not specified elsewhere, it likely fits HS 731990.
- Can I use HS 731990 for safety pins?
- No, safety pins are classified under HS 731940. Use HS 731990 only for hand-use sewing and knitting tools.
- What is the difference between HS 731990 and HS 731940?
- HS 731990 covers hand-use sewing and knitting tools, while HS 731940 specifically covers safety pins and similar fasteners.
- What should I include in my product description for HS 731990?
- Be specific about the type of tool, its material, and its intended use, such as 'set of steel knitting needles' or 'iron crochet hooks'.
- Are there any special requirements for importing items under HS 731990?
- Check with your customs broker for any specific regulations or documentation needed for importing hand-use metal tools.
- Can I classify mixed sets of sewing tools under HS 731990?
- Yes, as long as all items in the set are hand-use tools made of iron or steel and not specified elsewhere.
- How do I avoid classification issues with HS 731990?
- Ensure your product descriptions are accurate and detailed, and consult with a customs broker if you're unsure.
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