Screwdrivers fall under HSN 8205 in GST, which covers general-purpose hand tools used for repair, assembly and maintenance work. These tools are part of Section XV, Chapter 82 and are typically subject to 18% GST, making correct classification important for accurate invoicing and compliance.
HSN 8205 includes manually operated tools not specifically classified elsewhere, commonly used across electrical, construction and industrial applications. While most hand tools follow similar GST treatment, proper classification still depends on the tool’s exact design and function, especially when it overlaps with specialised equipment.
What is the HSN code for screwdrivers & hand tools with GST rate?
After the GST rate rationalisation announced at the 56th GST Council meeting in September 2025, most standard industrial and hardware products continue under the revised GST slabs of 5%, 18% and 40%.
Screwdrivers and related hand tools fall under the standard 18% GST slab in India, as they are treated as industrial and utility goods rather than essential items. The revised GST structure, effective from 22 September 2025, has simplified classification but retained hand tools in the regular tax bracket.
The table below provides a comprehensive classification of screwdrivers and related tools:
|
Category |
HSN Code / Number |
Description |
|
Hand tools (general category) |
8205 |
Covers hand-operated tools not elsewhere specified. |
|
Screwdrivers |
8205 40 00 |
Manual screwdrivers used for fastening screws. |
|
Spanners (adjustable) |
8204 12 00 |
Adjustable spanners and wrenches. |
|
Spanners (non-adjustable) |
8204 11 00 |
Fixed spanners. |
|
Socket wrenches |
8204 20 00 |
Socket sets and similar tools. |
|
Allen keys (hex keys) |
8204 11 20 |
Non-adjustable hand-operated wrenches, which includes hex keys |
|
Hammers |
8205 20 00 |
Hammers and sledge hammers. |
|
Pliers / crimping tools |
8203 20 00 |
Tools used for gripping, cutting and crimping. |
|
Hacksaw blades |
8202 91 00 |
Blades used in hand-operated saws. |
|
Knives (tool/utility) |
8211 |
Knives with cutting blades used for industrial or utility purposes. |
|
Measuring tapes |
9017 80 10 |
Measuring tapes and similar measuring instruments. |
|
Electrical testers |
9030 33 00 |
Voltage testers and electrical measuring devices. |
|
Grinding wheels |
6804 |
Abrasive grinding wheels and discs. |
|
Carbon brushes |
8545 20 00 |
Carbon brushes used in electrical motors. |
|
Brooms |
9603 10 00 |
Brooms and brushes made of natural or synthetic fibres. |
|
Mops |
9603 90 00 |
Mops and similar cleaning tools. |
How to assign the right screwdrivers, HSN code and similar tools
Accurate HSN classification is important for correct GST application and smooth invoicing. Since hand tools cover a wide range of products, the correct code depends on how the tool is designed and used rather than just its general category.
When determining the appropriate HSN code, consider:
- Type of tool: Whether it is a screwdriver, hammer, spanner or another hand tool.
- Primary function of the tool: Fastening, cutting, gripping, measuring or cleaning.
- Material and construction: Such as steel tools, insulated tools or specialised builds.
- Mode of operation: Purely manual tools versus electrically assisted or testing devices.
Conclusion
Screwdrivers and most commonly used hand tools fall under Chapter 82 and are generally taxed at 18% GST. However, classification is not always uniform, as tools like measuring devices, electrical components or cleaning equipment may fall under different chapters depending on their specific function.
For businesses that deal with screwdrivers and related tools, managing accurate HSN classification across multiple product types can quickly become complex, especially when maintaining consistent, compliant invoicing. Using a reliable accounting solution like TallyPrime helps reduce GST errors and simplifies day-to-day compliance by centralising taxation, inventory tracking, e-invoicing, accounting and reporting in one system.
