U.S. imports of Pliers, Pincers, Tweezers, Metal Cutting Shears & Similar Tools (SITC 69523) totaled $36.5M in August 2026, imported from 47 countries.
Importers of Pliers, Pincers, Tweezers, Metal Cutting Shears & Similar Tools paid $7.8M in duties in August 2026, an average duty rate of 21.45% — duty actually collected as a share of the imports that cleared customs, not the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: August 2026 dataGripping and cutting hand tools — including cutting pliers, pincers, tweezers, metal cutting shears, and pipe cutters — are widely traded inputs for construction, electrical, plumbing, and manufacturing trades. Classification distinctions turn on the tool's primary function (gripping vs. cutting) and material construction, which can affect duty treatment and Section 301 exposure for goods of Chinese origin. Importers sourcing from multiple origins should verify that each tool type is classified individually, as combination or multi-function tools may require separate tariff analysis.
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3.6K import shipments a month
Classification generally follows the tool's primary or essential character. A tool designed principally for cutting (e.g., diagonal cutting pliers) is typically classified as a cutting tool, while one designed primarily for gripping with incidental cutting capability follows the gripping function. When in doubt, a binding ruling from CBP is the safest path before large-volume imports.
Many hand tools in this category sourced from China are subject to Section 301 tariffs. The specific applicability depends on the precise HTS classification of each tool type. Importers should confirm current Section 301 list coverage with a licensed customs broker, as exclusions and modifications have changed over time.
Basic heading 165 of 766 in section 6
Basic heading 69523 · $36.5M of $27.0B
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Imports · August 2026
origin
Vietnam and China together supply 50% of it. China pays 42.5% duty; Germany 10.2%.
customs district
Census does not publish district detail for this classification system.
destination
Census does not publish state detail for this classification system.
entry
Census does not publish port detail for this classification system.
ImportsExports
Imports
$36.5MYoY · free account
Exports
$15.8MYoY · free account
12-mo low · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. imported $437.2M of Pliers, Pincers, Tweezers, Metal Cutting Shears & Similar Tools and exported $201.5M.
Through August 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.