Hickory Tool Handle Blanks from Japan
Nonconiferous hickory wood sticks, roughly squared and trimmed for axe and hammer handle manufacturing, pointed but unturned. Meets 4404.20.00 criteria as suitable for tool handles in raw form before final shaping. Valued for shock resistance in woodworking tools.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Certify hickory as nonconiferous; confusion with coniferous softwoods common at customs
• Declare intended use as blanks to avoid higher duties on finished handles
• Ensure moisture content under 20% to pass inspection without drying requirements