ITC slaps tariffs on shady imported coolers and toolboxes for patent sins
Published Date: 10/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. International Trade Commission found that some imported storage containers, toolboxes, and coolers violate patent rules. They’re ordering these products to be stopped from entering the U.S. and setting a bond of 18% of their value during a review period. The investigation deadline is now extended to November 2, 2026, while one patent is still under review.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
18% bond required during Presidential review
For covered articles imported or sold during the period of Presidential review, the Commission requires a bond equal to eighteen percent (18%) of the entered value. That 18% bond applies to the storage containers, toolboxes, organizers, component boxes, and coolers covered by the remedial orders.
Import and sale ban on specific storage products
The U.S. International Trade Commission ordered a limited exclusion order (LEO) and a cease and desist order (CDO) that prohibit further importation and sale of certain storage containers, toolboxes, organizers, component boxes, and coolers that infringe U.S. Patent Nos. 11,365,026 and 11,794,952. The orders were issued against respondent Klein Tools, Inc., and bar covered products from entering or being sold in the United States.
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