Importing machinery from China to the US: duties, fees and landed cost

By I&R Group, Jiaxing. Last reviewed October 1, 2026.

A Chinese machine entering the US can carry several duty layers: the regular duty for its HTS code, usually low for machinery; Section 301 at 25% for most machinery on Lists 1 to 3; a 12.5% forced-labor Section 301 duty on Chinese goods since July 24, 2026; and, for some machinery, Section 232 duties on steel or aluminum content. Confirm the exact HTS code and every layer before you order.

The duty layers on Chinese machinery

These layers stack. For a machine on Section 301 Lists 1 to 3, the additional duties alone now add 37.5% on top of the regular rate, before any Section 232 duty.

Other costs in the landed price

• Machine price, usually quoted FOB at a Chinese port
• Ocean freight, often in a container or on a flat rack for large machines
• Cargo insurance
• Merchandise processing fee, a small percentage of value with a minimum and a maximum, adjusted every October
• Customs broker fees and customs bond
• Inland freight, rigging and installation at your site

Why the HTS code matters most

The HTS code decides the regular duty, which Section 301 list applies and whether Section 232 reaches the machine. Two similar machines can land at very different costs under different codes. Confirm the classification in writing with your customs broker before you order.

Exclusions are expiring

A limited set of Section 301 exclusions, many covering machinery and industrial components, remains active until November 9, 2026. If your machine relies on one, plan for the full rate on entries after that date.

How to keep landed cost predictable

1. Get the HTS code and every duty layer confirmed before you sign the order.
2. Compare FOB and delivered quotes on the same basis.
3. Add a buffer for tariff changes between order and arrival on long lead times.
4. Ask for a landed cost breakdown, not only a machine price.