HS Code for Surgical Needles
The HS Code for surgical needles is 901832. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is Free.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 901832 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | Free |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 0% |
| Chapter | 90 |
| Heading | 9018 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Tubular metal needles and needles for sutures
HS Code 901832 covers tubular metal surgical needles and suture needles, which are imported duty-free into the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What additional costs should we expect when importing surgical needles under HTS 901832?
Beyond the declared value, you will be subject to a 2.8% import duty (General rate of duty for 901832.00) and a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) of 0.3464% (minimum $29.22, maximum $649.76). For shipments requiring a formal customs entry, you must also budget for a harbor maintenance fee of 0.125% of the cargo's value.
What specific regulatory clearances are required to import surgical needles under HTS 901832 into the United States?
Surgical needles classified under 901832 are regulated as medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Importers must ensure the product is listed with the FDA and the foreign establishment is registered, and the shipment must be accompanied by appropriate FDA documentation such as a FDA-2877 form. Failure to provide this can result in customs holds and refusal of entry.
What are the critical packaging and labeling requirements for shipping surgical needles under HTS 901832 to ensure they are not damaged and clear customs?
Surgical needles must be individually sealed in sterile, tamper-evident packaging and clearly labeled as 'STERILE MEDICAL DEVICES' with the lot number. The outer shipping container must be rigid and marked 'Fragile - Medical Instruments' to prevent bending or blunting during transit. Proper documentation, including a detailed packing list specifying 'Tubular Metal Surgical Needles, HTS 901832,' is essential for customs clearance.
Seasonal Trends for Surgical Needles (901832)
Surgical needle imports show predictable quarterly patterns, with a consistent peak in Q4 (October-December) as hospitals and distributors build inventory for the new fiscal year and anticipated winter surgical volumes. A secondary, smaller increase often occurs in late Q1 (March) ahead of the new financial year in many healthcare systems. Data from U.S. import statistics shows a typical 15-25% volume increase in Q4 compared to the annual monthly average. There is no significant consumer-driven seasonality, as demand is tied to institutional procurement cycles and budget spending.
Compliance Notes for Surgical Needles
Surgical needles under 9018.32 are generally duty-free in the U.S. (General Rate of Duty: Free), but must comply with U.S. FDA medical device regulations. Importers should be prepared to provide a 510(k) Premarket Notification or proof of exemption upon request by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Shipments are subject to review by the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) and must adhere to labeling and establishment registration requirements. Ensure proper declaration of the device listing number and manufacturer information to avoid delays.
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