For knife enthusiasts, manufacturers, and collectors, understanding the complexities of US Customs regulations is essential to importing, traveling with, or mailing knives—especially custom knives. The regulatory landscape in 2025 is full of changes affecting tariffs, permissible designs, and procedures for compliant shipments. This article provides a comprehensive analysis with a special focus on custom knives, business travelers, and manufacturers.

US Customs Regulations: An Overview

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates under strict federal guidelines concerning the import, export, and transportation of knives. The classification and permissibility of a knife—custom or otherwise—depend on several factors:

- Knife types (fixed blade, folding, automatic, custom knives)

- Blade length and style

- Deployment mechanism (spring-assisted, manual, automatic, etc.)

- Intended use (utilitarian, culinary, decorative, or weaponized)

- Compliance with federal, state, and local laws

Prohibited items, such as switchblades and spring-loaded knives, are subject to permanent seizure unless exempted by federal law for special cases (e.g., contracts with the US military, one-armed users). Most utilitarian and custom knives, including pocket knives, hunting knives, and kitchen knives, are permitted so long as they aren't categorized as automatic or weapon-type knives.[2][4][9]

Critical Changes in Knife Importation: 2025 Update

Removal of De Minimis Exemption

In August 2025, the US ended the de minimis exemption that previously allowed shipments under $800 to avoid duties. Now, all knife shipments—regardless of value—face customs tariffs and clearance.[1][5]

50% Tariff on Imported Knives

Knives imported from overseas are now subject to a steep 50% tariff under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, broadening the scope from steel and aluminum goods to include almost all finished knives, custom knives included. This has increased costs for buyers and manufacturers alike and has led to business model changes across the knife industry.[3][5][1]

Processing and Delays

All shipments must undergo thorough customs screening and documentation, resulting in longer wait times, especially for custom knives that require special declarations on materials and intended use.[5][1]

Legal Categories and Allowable Knives

Permitted Custom Knives

- Primary Utilitarian Use: Knives with blades designed for work, cooking, camping, or daily carry are generally allowed.[4][9]

- Common Folding Knives: Jackknives, scout knives, and similar pocket knives are unrestricted so long as they don't open automatically.[9][4]

- Special Purpose Knives: Custom knives for hunting, fishing, and sports are permitted with proper documentation showing their utilitarian function.[4][9]

- Contractual Exceptions: Knives imported under a contract with a US military branch, or by a one-armed person (with specific documentation), may bypass certain restrictions.[4]

Prohibited Blade Types

- Switchblades/Automatic Knives: Knives that open by button, gravity, or inertia, unless covered by an exemption, are banned and subject to seizure.[2][9][4]

- Weapon-Type Knives: Blades primarily designed for combat, such as stilettos or daggers, often face further scrutiny or outright prohibition depending on their construction and local laws.[10][4]

Practical Advice for Importers and Travelers

Checked Baggage Policy

Knives—including custom knives—must be placed in checked baggage when flying into the US. Attempting to pack any knife in carry-on luggage will likely result in confiscation and civil penalties.[11][12]

Secure Packaging & Documentation

Given the added scrutiny, ensure custom knives are packaged in padded containers with clear labeling outlining their utilitarian or collectible purpose. Declare the contents accurately and prepare to pay applicable tariffs. Retain invoices and compliance documentation for easy customs processing.[1][5]

Courier Selection and State Law Variations

Select reputable courier services that understand the new customs procedures. Be aware that once the knife passes federal customs, state laws in the package's destination may impose further restrictions or taxes.[5]

Manufacturing and Selling Custom Knives Post-2025

Cost Implications

The increased tariffs have had wide-reaching effects, raising prices for US buyers and causing delays in deliveries. For manufacturers and brands like BILIKNIFE, this can mean adjusting your marketing approach to emphasize value, craftsmanship, and the uniqueness of custom knives.[3][1][5]

Compliance Is Key

Proactively staying updated with federal, state, and local regulations is essential for knife businesses. For new custom knife models, ensure that design parameters fall within legal guidelines, and offer documentation and support to US buyers regarding import, transportation, and compliance processes.

Real-World Insights: Travelers and Collectors

Many travelers and knife collectors have reported smooth experiences bringing custom knives into the US when following regulations—packing knives securely, declaring their value, and providing documentation as needed. Complications most often arise when travelers attempt to transport prohibited blade styles, pack knives in carry-on luggage, or underestimate their item's value on customs forms.[12][13]

Conclusion

US Customs generally allows the import of knives—especially custom knives—provided you follow all federal guidelines and avoid prohibited blade styles like switchblades. The regulatory landscape has changed in 2025, with all knives now subject to a 50% tariff and the elimination of de minimis exemptions. Proper documentation, secure packaging, and awareness of both federal and state laws are essential, whether you're a manufacturer or a collector.

For knife makers and business owners, proactively updating compliance protocols ensures smoother shipments and happier clients. For enthusiasts and travelers, clear declarations and careful packing safeguard your investment and custom knife collection.

Consult BILIKNIFE today for guidance on US Customs compliance, personalized importing solutions, and expert advice on custom knife regulations. Navigating these complexities is easier with trusted expertise—reach out to grow your custom knife business or collection securely and legally.

Frequently Asked Questions About US Customs and Custom Knives

Can I bring a custom knife into the US?

Yes, you can bring custom knives into the United States as long as they are not automatic knives (switchblades) or weapon-type knives and are packed in checked luggage with appropriate documentation. Be prepared to pay the 50% import tariff and any applicable state taxes, and ensure the knife is labeled for utilitarian or collectible use.[5][4]

How do I declare a custom knife at US Customs?

You must declare the knife on your customs form, providing an accurate description of its type, intended use, and value. All knives, regardless of value, now face tariffs and must be declared following the removal of the de minimis exemption. Provide invoices or receipts to support your declaration.[1][5]

What types of knives are prohibited?

Automatic knives (switchblades), gravity knives, and weapon-type knives (blades designed primarily for combat) are generally prohibited unless imported under a military contract or for one-armed individuals with proper documentation. Custom knives must be designed with a utilitarian function and meet federal guidelines.[9][2][4]

Are custom knives subject to tariffs?

Yes, as of August 2025, all imported knives—including custom knives—are subject to a 50% tariff under new Section 232 regulations. This has significantly increased the cost and processing times for importing knives into the US.[3][1][5]

Can custom knives be shipped by mail to the US?

Most custom knives can be shipped to the US using reputable postal or courier services. All packages must be clearly declared, labelled with full specifications, and accompanied by invoices. Prohibited knife types remain illegal to ship regardless of the method.[14][4]

What should I do if my custom knife is seized by US Customs?

If your knife is seized due to improper classification or being prohibited (e.g., automatic knife), consult US Customs or a legal specialist immediately to determine your options. Sometimes, prohibited knives may be exported rather than destroyed, at your expense.[4]

Do US state laws affect knife importation?

Yes, some states restrict blade length, mechanism type, and even possession of certain knives regardless of federal customs clearance. Before shipping custom knives, check the laws of the destination state and inform customers about potential restrictions.[5]

Citations:

[1](https://japaneseknifenakamura.com/important-update-on-u-s-import-tariffs-for-knives/)

[2](https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1123)

[3](https://www.akti.org/news/new-steel-aluminum-tariffs-hit-knife-industry/)

[4](https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2025-title19-vol1/pdf/CFR-2025-title19-vol1-part12-subjectgroup-id938.pdf)

[5](https://knifejapan.com/importing-japanese-knives-into-the-usa/)

[6](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/05/14/2025-08615/emergency-import-restrictions-on-categories-of-archaeological-and-ethnological-material-of-lebanon)

[7](https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1139?language=en_US)

[8](https://codifylegalpublishing.com/blog-article/codify-analysis-of-knife-owners-protection-act-of-2025-us-119th-congress-1)

[9](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-19/chapter-I/part-12/subject-group-ECFR6808691d6b57a58)

[10](https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/19/12.96)

[11](https://www.akti.org/traveling-with-a-knife/)

[12](https://www.facebook.com/groups/264786824583749/posts/1219872772408478/)

[13](https://www.reddit.com/r/chefknives/comments/1cyn65p/flying_from_japan_back_to_the_us_with_14_knifes/)

[14](https://keganico.com/can-you-mail-a-knife/)

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