US import duty on cosmetics & skincare
Most beauty and skincare products enter the US duty-free under HTS 3304. Fees don't disappear though — MPF and carrier brokerage still apply, and FDA import rules sit alongside customs rules.
MFN general rate 0% (Free) HTS 3304.10 Beauty or make-up preparations and skincare preparations
Cosmetics duty rates at a glance
| Item | HTS code | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| Lipstick / makeup | 3304.10.00 | Free |
| Eye makeup | 3304.20.00 | Free |
| Moisturizer / serum | 3304.99 | Free |
| Perfume | 3303.00 | Free |
Key facts
- Lip/eye makeup (HTS 3304.10/3304.20): Free
- Skincare creams & serums (HTS 3304.99): Free
- Perfumes (HTS 3303): generally Free
- FDA regulates cosmetics imports separately from CBP duty
Don't forget the fees
- MPF processing fee: from $2.69 (informal entry)
- Carrier brokerage: USPS flat $9.35; UPS/FedEx/DHL vary
- Country-of-origin surcharges stack on top of MFN rates
Cosmetics duty by origin country
FAQs
Are there quantity limits on cosmetics imports?
Customs duty is not quantity-based for personal imports, but large quantities may be treated as commercial shipments requiring formal entry and FDA compliance documentation.
Why did I pay fees on duty-free skincare?
MPF (minimum $2.69 informal) plus your carrier's brokerage fee apply regardless of the 0% tariff. USPS international mail is usually cheapest for duty-free goods.