Sourcing Sewing Machines from China to the US: Tariffs, Compliance, and Suppliers

As a sourcing agent with 20 years in China, I've seen many importers overlook critical regulatory steps when bringing in sewing machines. The devil is in the details – from finding reliable manufacturers in Zhejiang to navigating US tariffs and safety standards. Here's what you need to know to avoid costly mistakes.

Where are sewing machines produced in China?

Industrial sewing machines, unlike household ones, are faster, larger, more expensive, and come in a variety of shapes. Chinese manufacturers of sewing machines, both industrial and household, are mainly located in Zhejiang Province. The largest productions areas of sewing machines are cities such as:

• Taizhou, Hangzhou, Jinhua (Zhejiang Province)
• Dongguan, Guangzhou (Guangdong).

Tariffs on sewing machines sourced from China to the US

When importing goods into the US from China, you will usually have to pay import duties (customs duties). The current tariffs can be found in the HTS System (Harmonized Tariff Schedule System). Do not forget to check if there is any additional China tariff.

HTS codes and US tariffs on sewing machines from China:

• Sewing machines of the household type, valued not over $20 each (8452.10.00.10) – free + 7.5%
• Other sewing machines of the household type (8452.10.00.90) – free + 7.5%
• Automatic units (8452.21.90.00) – free + 7.5%
• Automatic units specially designed to join footwear soles to uppers (8452.21.10.10) – free + 7.5%

Importing sewing machines from China to the US

Only products that meet requirements are allowed on the market. The importer is responsible for introducing only compliant products on the market. Just like other machines, sewing machines must be accompanied by a manual.

Although there is no law in the US requiring UL certification, it is advised. UL 1594 applies to sewing and cutting machines, whether household or industrial type.

All imports must comply with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.

For customs clearance in the US, you need to submit the following: 

• Customs bond (for all commercial imports valued at $2500 or more)
• Commercial Invoice issued by the seller
• Certificate of Origin
• Packing List
• Written evidence of the contract of carriage (Air Waybill, AWB for air freight; Bill of Lading, B/L for sea freight)
• Entry Manifest (CBP Form 7533).
• In the case of seaborne goods, Import Security Filing “10+2”.

Sewing machines from China – trade shows

The best suppliers are not necessarily the cheapest. They must be reliable and provide up-to-standards goods. You can meet some reliable manufacturers at trade fairs. Attending a trade show in China will give you an advantage as the Chinese are more likely to close deals with those with whom they have established a face-to-face relationship.

Below is a list of trade shows in China where you can find sewing machines and more.

China (Wenzhou) International Leather Shoe Material & Shoe Machinery Fair

Venue: Wenzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, Wenzhou

Website: chinaleatherfair.com

The Wenzhou Int’l Leather Fair takes place in China’s main leather footwear production area, Wenzhou.

China (Wenzhou) International Sewing & Clothing Equipment Fair

Venue: Wenzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center, Wenzhou

Website: wzsew.com

Wenzhou International Sewing & Clothing Equipment Fair is an influential trade fair in China for professional and industrial sewing machines and more.

YIWUTEX (China Yiwu International Trade Fair for Functional Yarn & Knitting & Hosiery Machinery; China Yiwu International Trade Fair for Sewing & Digital Printing Machinery) 

Venue: Yiwu International Expo Center, Yiwu

Website: zhejiangtextile.com/ZJTEX22/idx/eng

Yiwu in China is the world’s wholesale market. YIWUTEX is a fair dedicated to clothing, sewing machines, knitting machines, and similar equipment.

CISMA – China International Sewing Machinery & Accessories Show

Venue: Ningbo International Convention and Exhibition Center, Ningbo

Website: cisma.com.cn/index.php/Index/index.html

CISMA is the world’s largest trade fair focusing on machinery for textile processing.

SCISMA – South China International Sewing Machinery & Accessories Show

Venue: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, Shenzhen

Website: dtcshow.com

Sourcing sewing machines from China can be profitable, but due diligence is non-negotiable. Before signing any contract, have your supplier verified and consider a factory inspection to ensure compliance with US standards. China-Check's services can help you mitigate risks and streamline the entire import process.

Sourcing sewing machines from China to the US – to sum up

• The largest number of sewing machine manufacturers in China is in Zhejiang and Guangdong Provinces.
• Tariffs on sewing machines from China are relatively low.
• Sewing machines in the US market are regulated.
• Have due diligence conducted before you sign the commercial contract with your Chinese supplier.
• Check duty rates for clothes imported from China.