HS Code 82.13 – Scissors; tailors' shears and similar shears, and blades therefore

HS code 8213 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Scissors; tailors' shears and similar shears, and blades therefore. Heading 8213 specifically encompasses scissors, tailors' shears, and similar shears, along with their blades. This classification is dedicated to the widely recognized cutting tool characterized by two pivoted blades that slide past each other to cut material. The scope is broad, covering everything from small nail scissors and office scissors to heavy-duty tailor's shears and other specialized shears used in various crafts and industries, provided they fit the fundamental design. The inclusion of 'blades therefore' ensures that replacement blades or components for these cutting instruments are also classified under this heading. This classification is vital for trade compliance as it clearly differentiates these specific cutting tools from other types of knives (8211), razors (8212), or general hand tools (8203) that might have cutting functions but operate on different principles or are designed for distinct purposes. Misclassification could lead to incorrect tariff assignments, customs delays, and potential penalties. Located within Chapter 82, 'Tools, implements, cutlery, spoons and forks, of base metal,' it reinforces that these are primarily handheld, non-powered tools, typically constructed of base metal. Historically, scissors have been essential tools across cultures for centuries, evolving in design and material but maintaining their core utility. Accurate classification under 8213 is crucial for manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure proper duty assessment, compliance with safety standards (e.g., blade sharpness and tip safety for children's scissors), and smooth international trade operations.

Office scissors, craft scissors, paper scissors, children's safety scissors, fabric shears, tailor's shears, dressmaker's shears, pinking shears, embroidery scissors, hair cutting shears, barbers' shears, thinning shears, nail scissors, cuticle scissors, medical shears (non-surgical), bandage shears, poultry shears, kitchen shears, gardening shears (handheld, two-bladed), electrician's shears, utility shears, upholstery shears, scissor blades (replacement), pet grooming shears, thread snips.

Common misclassifications include confusing scissors under 8213 with specialized surgical scissors (9018), which are medical instruments and subject to different regulations and tariffs. Another error is classifying large, single-action gardening or pruning shears (e.g., hedge shears or bypass pruners) under 8213; these often fall under 8201 (Hand tools of a kind used in agriculture, horticulture or forestry) due to their specific design and intended use. The key distinction for 8213 is the two-pivoted-blade mechanism for cutting, typically for lighter materials or specific crafts, as opposed to heavy-duty agricultural tools or precision medical instruments.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8213 in UN Comtrade data were China ($693M, 70% of world exports), Germany ($61M) and Italy ($35M). World exports came to about $996M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 8213 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($137M, 17% of world imports), Germany ($62M) and Japan ($43M). World imports came to about $808M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 8213 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 82 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (82) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (13) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.