About HS Code 821191
This category specifically covers table knives with fixed cutting blades, which may be serrated or not, designed for individual use at the dining table. It explicitly excludes machine blades (8208). These knives are primarily traded for household use, the hospitality industry, and catering sectors, forming an essential part of flatware and dining sets. International trade is driven by consumer demand for tableware, restaurant supplies, and cultural dining practices across the globe. Importers are often countries with high consumer spending, a thriving hospitality industry, or a strong tradition of formal dining. Exporters are typically nations with established cutlery manufacturing traditions, focusing on aesthetics, material quality (often stainless steel), and ergonomic design to complement various dining styles. Key aspects include finish, balance, and resistance to corrosion from food acids and dishwashing.
Products Under This Code
Dinner knives, steak knives (individual), butter knives (with cutting edge), dessert knives, fish knives, carving knives (table use), bread knives (table use), cheese knives (table use)
Real World Examples
Wüsthof steak knives, Laguiole dinner knives, Oneida flatware knives, Christofle table knives, Victorinox table knives
Common Misclassification
Often confused with 821192 (other fixed blade knives) if not clearly identifiable as for table use, or with 8215 (spoons, forks, ladles) if part of a mixed flatware set.
Products Classified Under 8211.91
Industry
This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.
Trade Overview
China, Germany, and Portugal are major exporters, while the USA, UK, and France are significant importers for both retail and hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 821191?
HS code 821191 covers: Knives; table knives, having fixed cutting blades, serrated or not, excluding knives and blades of heading no. 8208. This category specifically covers table knives with fixed cutting blades, which may be serrated or not, designed for individual use at the dining table. It explicitly excludes machine blades (8208). These knives are primarily traded for household use, the hospitality industry, and catering sectors, forming an essential part of flatware and dining sets. International trade is driven by consumer demand for tableware, restaurant supplies, and cultural dining practices across the globe. Importers are often countries with high consumer spending, a thriving hospitality industry, or a strong tradition of formal dining. Exporters are typically nations with established cutlery manufacturing traditions, focusing on aesthetics, material quality (often stainless steel), and ergonomic design to complement various dining styles. Key aspects include finish, balance, and resistance to corrosion from food acids and dishwashing.
What products fall under HS code 821191?
Dinner knives, steak knives (individual), butter knives (with cutting edge), dessert knives, fish knives, carving knives (table use), bread knives (table use), cheese knives (table use)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 821191?
Often confused with 821192 (other fixed blade knives) if not clearly identifiable as for table use, or with 8215 (spoons, forks, ladles) if part of a mixed flatware set.
How is HS code 821191 structured?
HS code 821191 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (82) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (11) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.