Architect's Drafting Kit

A personal set of drafting tools including T-square, triangles, compass, and mechanical pencils that an architect took abroad for a project consultation. This qualifies under HTS 9804.00.10 as professional instruments of the architect's trade taken abroad by the owner and returned. The tools remain duty-free as they were used professionally overseas.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+10.0%10%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

9017.20.70.00Higher: 35% vs 10%

If newly purchased drafting instruments

New professional drawing instruments fall under Chapter 90 optical/measuring instruments

8205.59.10.00Higher: 42.2% vs 10%

If considered general hand tools

Basic metalworking tools without professional specificity go to Chapter 82

9811.00.60Same rate: 10%

If samples for professional solicitation

Samples imported solely for review/sale promotion have separate provisions

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Provide proof of ownership and export (receipts, photos, passport stamps) to demonstrate tools were taken abroad by the traveler

Declaration must show items are for personal professional use, not commercial resale

Avoid common pitfall of new similar tools which would classify under standard chapters 82/90

Related Products under HTS 9804.00.10

Surgeon's Surgical Instrument Set

Personal surgical instruments (forceps, scalpel handles, retractors) carried by a surgeon for an overseas medical conference or consultation. Qualifies under 9804.00.10 as professional tools of the medical occupation taken abroad by the owner. Duty-free upon return as personal trade implements.

Software Engineer's Laptop Computer

Personal laptop with installed development software taken abroad by a software engineer for client meetings. Qualifies as professional instrument of trade under 9804.00.10 when returning with the owner. Duty-free entry applies to personal computing tools of the occupation.

Photographer's Camera Equipment

Professional DSLR camera, lenses, tripod taken abroad by photographer for assignment. Qualifies under 9804.00.10 as personal instruments of the photographic trade carried by owner. Duty-free return applies to working professional equipment.

Lawyer's Leather Briefcase and Legal Pads

Personal leather briefcase containing legal pads, case files taken abroad by attorney for international arbitration. Qualifies as professional books and implements under 9804.00.10 when owned and carried by the lawyer. Duty-free as tools of legal occupation.

Teacher's Educational Resource Kit

Teaching aids (globe, flashcards, curriculum guides) taken abroad by educator for professional development conference. Qualifies under 9804.00.10 as professional books and implements of teaching occupation carried by owner. Duty-free educational tools.

Mechanic's Diagnostic Tool Kit

OBD-II scanner, multimeter, specialty wrenches taken abroad by automotive technician for training seminar. Personal tools of mechanical trade qualify under HTS 9804.00.10 when carried by owner. Duty-free return for professional diagnostic implements.