HS Code Subheading

Cutlery; other than plated with precious metal

8215.99 Subheading
Section XV — Base metals and articles of base metal

About HS Code 821599

This broad HS code encompasses all individual pieces of cutlery made from base metals (like stainless steel, aluminum, or other alloys) that are not plated with precious metals and are not presented in sets. This is a massive category in global trade, covering everything from bulk restaurant supplies to individual kitchen utensils. Major importers include countries with large hospitality industries, growing populations, and significant retail sectors, such as the United States, Germany, and the UK, which source vast quantities for both consumer and commercial use. Exporters are predominantly manufacturing powerhouses like China, India, and Vietnam, leveraging economies of scale and efficient production lines. Key aspects for traders involve understanding material grades (e.g., 18/10 vs. 18/0 stainless steel), ergonomic design, durability, and compliance with food safety standards. The market is highly price-sensitive for mass-produced items, but also values innovation in design and functionality for specialized tools.

Products Under This Code

Stainless steel dinner spoons, individual stainless steel forks, kitchen ladles, serving skimmers, butter knives, cake servers, fruit knives, soup spoons

Real World Examples

OXO Good Grips ladle, Victorinox steak knife, Fissler serving spoon, Zyliss kitchen knife, IKEA individual stainless steel fork

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with 821520 if individual items are mistakenly grouped as a set, or with 821591 if precious metal plating is present but overlooked, impacting customs duties and regulations.

Products Classified Under 8215.99

Industry

This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.

Trade Overview

China, Germany, and the USA are dominant in the global trade of non-precious metal cutlery, both as producers and consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 821599?

HS code 821599 covers: Cutlery; other than plated with precious metal. This broad HS code encompasses all individual pieces of cutlery made from base metals (like stainless steel, aluminum, or other alloys) that are not plated with precious metals and are not presented in sets. This is a massive category in global trade, covering everything from bulk restaurant supplies to individual kitchen utensils. Major importers include countries with large hospitality industries, growing populations, and significant retail sectors, such as the United States, Germany, and the UK, which source vast quantities for both consumer and commercial use. Exporters are predominantly manufacturing powerhouses like China, India, and Vietnam, leveraging economies of scale and efficient production lines. Key aspects for traders involve understanding material grades (e.g., 18/10 vs. 18/0 stainless steel), ergonomic design, durability, and compliance with food safety standards. The market is highly price-sensitive for mass-produced items, but also values innovation in design and functionality for specialized tools.

What products fall under HS code 821599?

Stainless steel dinner spoons, individual stainless steel forks, kitchen ladles, serving skimmers, butter knives, cake servers, fruit knives, soup spoons

What are common misclassifications for HS code 821599?

This code is frequently confused with 821520 if individual items are mistakenly grouped as a set, or with 821591 if precious metal plating is present but overlooked, impacting customs duties and regulations.

How is HS code 821599 structured?

HS code 821599 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (82) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (15) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (99) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.