Calculating import duties in 2026 is more complex than ever. Multiple tariff layers, sector-specific rates, and country-of-origin rules all affect your final cost. This guide walks you through the exact process, step by step.
Here's the complete formula for calculating your total import cost in 2026:
Your customs value is the transaction value of the goods plus shipping and insurance costs to the US port of entry. This is the base amount that all duty percentages are applied to.
Customs Value = Product Cost + Freight + Insurance
Every product imported into the US has a Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. This 10-digit code determines your MFN (Most Favored Nation) base duty rate. You can look up HTS codes at the US International Trade Commission website (hts.usitc.gov).
MFN rates range from 0% on many raw materials and electronics up to 48% on certain footwear and apparel.
As of April 2026, a 15% Section 122 surcharge applies to imports from most countries. Two key exemptions exist: USMCA-qualifying goods from Canada and Mexico, and products covered by Section 232 tariffs (steel, aluminum, autos, semiconductors). If neither exemption applies, add 15%.
If your goods originate in China, Section 301 tariffs apply at rates ranging from 7.5% to 100% depending on the product category. Check the USTR website for the current list of covered products and their rates.
If your product falls into one of the covered sectors — steel (50%), aluminum (50%), automobiles (25%), auto parts (25%), semiconductors (25%), or copper (25%) — Section 232 rates apply regardless of country of origin. Remember: Section 232 products are exempt from Section 122.
Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of customs value, with a minimum of $31.67 and a maximum of $614.35 per entry.
Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of customs value for ocean shipments.
Scenario: Importing Furniture from Vietnam
Product: Wooden furniture
Customs Value: $25,000 (product $22,000 + shipping $3,000)
Country: Vietnam (not USMCA, not China)
Product: Not a Section 232 sector
Using the wrong customs value. Duties are calculated on the total value including freight and insurance, not just the product price. Undervaluing goods is a customs violation with serious penalties.
Forgetting that tariffs stack. Many importers calculate only one tariff layer and are shocked when CBP assesses multiple layers. MFN, Section 122, Section 301, and Section 232 all add to each other.
Assuming USMCA exemption without qualifying. Just because goods ship from Canada or Mexico doesn't mean they qualify for USMCA treatment. Products must meet specific rules of origin — if components are sourced from outside North America, the finished product may not qualify.
Missing Section 232 exemptions from Section 122. If your product is covered by Section 232, you should not be paying the 15% Section 122 surcharge on top of it. This is money left on the table if your customs broker doesn't catch it.
Let Us Do the Math
Our calculator applies every layer automatically and shows you the full breakdown.
Use Free Calculator →