Navigate tariffs with confidence

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Airlift Tariff Simulator

Introduction

Import duties significantly influence the total cost of moving goods into the United States. Rates can change based on the product’s HTS code, the country of origin, the shipment value, and even the date it enters the U.S. Many importers face unexpected charges because these details are often checked only at the time of clearance.

The Airlift Tariff Simulator helps you avoid surprises by providing a quick, transparent estimate of the duties and basic customs fees that may apply to your shipment. Below is a simple breakdown of what the tool is, why it matters, and how it can help you plan with confidence.

What It Is

The Airlift Tariff Simulator is a simple tool that helps you estimate U.S. import duties and basic customs fees before your shipment arrives.

It uses four inputs you provide:

  • 10-digit HTS code
  • Country of origin
  • Shipment value (USD)
  • Entry date into the U.S.

Why It Matters

The simulator helps you:

  • Understand customs duty and fee impact before you ship
  • Calculate estimated landed cost quickly (value + duty + fees)
  • Support pricing, margin planning, and sourcing decisions
  • Stay aware of duty changes tied to policy updates or exclusions

What the Simulator Shows

  • Duty rate (%) based on HTS code and origin
  • Total duty amount (USD)
  • Applicable CBP fees such as HMF and MPF
  • Estimated landed cost combining product value + duties + fees
  • Any applicable exclusions, special program notes, or surcharges
  • Historical U.S. import data identifying top source countries for the selected HTS code

Who Should Use It

  • Importers bringing goods into the U.S.
  • Sourcing and procurement teams comparing suppliers
  • Finance teams planning costs and margins
  • SMEs estimating import expenses before raising purchase orders
  • Anyone working with HTS codes who needs a clear cost estimate

What It Does Not Do (Yet)

  • Does not guarantee the final duty payable (CBP makes the final determination)
  • Does not calculate:
    • Duty drawback
    • AD/CVD (anti-dumping or countervailing duties)
    • Full trade-agreement qualification checks
  • Does not include other costs like freight, insurance, warehousing, demurrage, or brokerage fees
  • Displays estimated landed cost based only on customs valuation + duties + basic CBP fees

When to Use It

  • Before placing an order to estimate total landed cost
  • When comparing multiple sourcing countries
  • During pricing and margin planning
  • When forecasting duty impact for upcoming shipments

Disclaimer

The Airlift Tariff Simulator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Final duty and fee amounts are determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the time of entry.

FAQ
Questions? We have answersNeed help?
What does the Tariff Simulator calculate?

It calculates estimated U.S. import duties and basic customs fees (HMF and MPF) based on your HTS code, origin country, shipment value, and entry date.

Do I need a full 10-digit HTS code?

Yes. U.S. duty rates are assigned at the 10-digit level, so a complete code is required.

Where does the duty data come from?

The simulator uses official U.S. government data (HTSUS, CBP guidance, and tariff schedules). No third-party or informal data sources are used.

Is this the final duty amount I will pay?

No. It’s an estimate. CBP determines the final duty upon clearance.

Why is the entry date required?

Some tariffs and exclusions are date-based. The entry date ensures you see the rate that applies on your planned clearance date.

What are HMF and MPF?

HMF: Harbor Maintenance Fee (for ocean shipments),MPF: Merchandise Processing Fee (applies to most imports) These are standard CBP fees included to help you understand your landed cost.

Does the tool consider duty-free or preferential programs?

It highlights special program notes when applicable, but does not verify full qualification under FTAs.

Can the tool calculate anti-dumping (AD) or countervailing duties (CVD)?

No. AD/CVD are based on product-specific scope rulings and are not included.

How do I compare duty rates between countries?

Change the country of origin and recalculate to compare the duty impact.

What does the historical import data show?

It lists the top exporting countries for that HTS code based on U.S. import statistics. This helps you evaluate sourcing options.

Does the simulator include freight, insurance, or port charges?

No. It only calculates duties and basic CBP fees.

Is the Airlift Tariff Simulator free?

Yes, it is completely free to use.