Question 1

What does the country comparison tool show?

Accepted Answer

It compares the total import cost for the same product across different origin countries. You see base duty, surcharges, and total landed cost side by side — useful for sourcing decisions.

Question 2

Why do tariff rates differ by country?

Accepted Answer

The US applies different rates depending on trade agreements (USMCA, CAFTA-DR, etc.), special tariff programs (GSP), and punitive tariffs (Section 301 on China, Section 232 on certain steel/aluminum). A product from Mexico may enter duty-free while the same product from China faces 25%+ duties.

Question 3

Can I compare more than two countries?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Add as many origin countries as you need. The tool calculates the full duty stack for each and ranks them by total cost, making it easy to find the lowest-cost sourcing option.

Question 4

Does the comparison account for free trade agreements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a country has an FTA with the US (like USMCA for Mexico/Canada or KORUS for South Korea), the preferential rate is shown alongside the standard MFN rate.

Question 5

What is an HTS code?

Accepted Answer

An HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code is a 10-digit classification number used by US Customs and Border Protection to identify imported goods and determine applicable duty rates. The first 6 digits are standardized internationally under the Harmonized System, while the last 4 digits are specific to the United States.

Question 6

How are US tariff rates determined?

Accepted Answer

US tariff rates are set by Congress and administered by CBP. The base MFN (Most Favored Nation) rate applies to most trading partners. Additional special tariffs — such as Section 301 (China), Section 232 (steel and aluminum), and Section 122 (temporary global surcharge, 10–15% per Proclamation 11012) — may apply on top of the base rate. Note that Section 122 does not stack with Section 232: goods already subject to §232 actions are excluded from the §122 surcharge.

Question 7

What are Section 301 tariffs?

Accepted Answer

Section 301 tariffs are additional duties imposed on Chinese goods under the Trade Act of 1974, in response to unfair trade practices. They range from 7.5% to 100% depending on the product category and apply on top of the standard MFN duty rate. Four separate lists cover approximately $370 billion of annual imports.

Question 8

How do I find the tariff rate for my product?

Accepted Answer

Use the search bar on this site to describe your product in plain English — our AI identifies the correct HTS code and shows all applicable duty rates including base MFN, Section 301, Section 232, and any other overlays. You can also browse by HTS chapter or product category.

Question 9

What is a landed cost?

Accepted Answer

Landed cost is the total cost of importing a product to its destination, including the product price (FOB), ocean or air freight, insurance, US Customs duties, Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF), and any other applicable surcharges. It represents the true cost of an imported good before domestic distribution.

Country Comparison FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Compare Tariff Rates by Country — Side-by-Side Duty Analysis for 190+ Countries

Country Comparison FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions