Import duty on suitcases & luggage in the UK

HS code

4202.12

UK codes

5

UK import duty

2% – 8%

UK VAT

20%

Source: UK Global Tariff (HMRC Trade Tariff service) · checked 2026-10-31

Suitcases, briefcases and laptop cases with an outer surface of plastic or textile are 4202.12.

UK commodity codes under 4202.12

UK commodity codeDescriptionImport dutyVAT
4202 12 11 00Of sheeting of plastics › Executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers8%20%
4202 12 19 00Of sheeting of plastics › Other8%20%
4202 12 50 00Of moulded plastic material4%20%
4202 12 91Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers
2 full 10-digit codes
  • 4202 12 91 10 — Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers › Hand-made
  • 4202 12 91 90 — Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar containers › Other
2%20%
4202 12 99Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Other
2 full 10-digit codes
  • 4202 12 99 10 — Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Other › Hand-made
  • 4202 12 99 90 — Of other materials, including vulcanised fibre › Other › Other
2%20%

Import duty on suitcases & luggage by country

How UK import charges work

The duty shown is the standard rate for goods from countries without a trade deal. Goods from a country with a UK trade agreement may pay less, or nothing, if they meet the rules of origin. A few products from certain countries also pay anti-dumping duties. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.

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Frequently asked questions

Q1What is the UK commodity code for suitcases & luggage?
It depends on the product’s details: 5 UK codes sit under HS 4202.12. The table on this page lists each one with its duty.
Q2What is the import duty on suitcases & luggage in the UK?
Between 2% – 8%, depending on the exact code. Goods from countries with a trade agreement may pay less if they meet the rules of origin.
Q3Do I pay VAT on imported suitcases & luggage?
Yes. Import VAT of 20% applies on top of duty. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.
Q4Is the UK code the same as the US HTS code?
Only the first 6 digits (4202.12) are the same. The US adds its own digits and rates: see the US HTS code for suitcases & luggage.

Find another product’s UK duty

New to customs terms? Read what an HS code is and our guide on how to calculate landed cost.

Classification guidance only, not a binding ruling or customs advice. The right code depends on your product’s exact material, function and construction. For certainty, get an Advance Tariff Ruling from HMRC, or ask a licensed customs broker.