8215 - Spoons, forks, ladles, skimmers, cake-servers, fish-knives, butter-knives, sugar tongs and similar kitchen or tableware; and base metal parts thereof:
Sub-classifications
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8215 2000 00
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8215 91
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8215 99
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Overview
This HTS category, 8215, encompasses a wide range of kitchen and tableware items made from base metal, as well as their constituent base metal parts. Specifically, it includes utensils designed for serving and eating, such as spoons, forks, ladles, skimmers, cake servers, and specialized knives like fish and butter knives. It also covers serving implements like sugar tongs. The defining characteristic of this category is the item's intended use as either a tool for preparing or serving food, or for direct consumption of food.
Distinguishing 8215 from its sibling categories within Chapter 82, such as those for knives (8211) or other tools (like those in 8201-8214), relies on the specific function of the item. While other categories might cover cutting implements or general hand tools, 8215 is exclusively for items used in the context of dining and serving food. The material composition is also key; this heading is restricted to articles of base metal, differentiating it from tableware made of precious metals or plastics covered elsewhere in the tariff schedule.
Within category 8215, further distinctions are made through its subheadings. The "Sets of assorted articles" (8215.10 and 8215.20) capture collections of these base metal utensils, with 8215.10 specifically addressing sets that include at least one item plated with precious metal, requiring separate consideration due to the higher value of such plating. The remaining "Other" articles fall under the broader residual subheading, for single items or sets not meeting the criteria for the more specific subcategories.