HS 690990 Other
Quick Answer: Ceramic articles for laboratory, chemical, or other technical uses, not otherwise specified, imported under HS 690990 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 5.00%, and the US at a variable rate of 4% or free for certain trade partners, with a higher 45% rate for others. This residual classification captures a diverse range of specialized ceramic items not fitting into more specific headings within Chapter 69. Importers should verify the specific tariff treatment based on the country of origin and prevailing trade agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to avoid potential duty discrepancies.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6909900000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6909900000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6909900000 | 4% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 6909.90?
Imports of Other may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 690990 cover?
This subheading covers other articles of a kind used for laboratory, chemical, or other technical purposes, not specifically enumerated in the preceding subheadings of heading 6909. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items such as crucibles, retorts, and other laboratory apparatus made of porcelain or other ceramic materials, when not designed for domestic use. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database provide further clarification, generally encompassing items like ceramic filters, porous ceramic plates, and specialized ceramic components used in industrial processes or scientific research, provided they are not elsewhere specified.
What falls outside HS 690990?
The following products are excluded from HS 690990: articles of porcelain or other ceramic materials of a kind used for domestic or toilet purposes (heading 6911 or 6912), ceramic building materials (heading 6904), ceramic wares for table or kitchen purposes (heading 6911), and ceramic sanitary ware (heading 6910). For instance, ceramic mugs, plates, or toilet bowls, even if made of high-grade ceramic, would be classified under their respective headings and not under this residual subheading for technical articles.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690990?
A common error is misclassifying ceramic articles intended for domestic use or general construction as technical articles under HS 690990. This often occurs when the intended use is not clearly understood or documented. For example, a ceramic pot that could technically be used in a laboratory but is primarily designed and marketed for kitchen use would fall under heading 6911. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 690990?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690990 involves a thorough examination of the article's material composition, intended use, and specific technical characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the explanatory notes for heading 6909. If the article is made of ceramic or porcelain and is specifically designed for laboratory, chemical, or other technical applications, and is not covered by a more specific subheading within 6909 or another heading, then 690990 is likely appropriate.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690990?
A shipment of 100 ceramic laboratory crucibles, each weighing 0.5 kg for a total of 50 kg, declared at a customs value of $1,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($1,000 USD × 0.035 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 69099000.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690990?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690990, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. Documentation required to claim preference under USMCA typically involves a certification of origin, while CPTPP may require a certificate of origin issued by an authorized body.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 690990 (Other ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical or other technical uses)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 690990 is generally 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the importing country has trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, goods from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may be admitted duty-free (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, to determine the exact applicable duty rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the import duty for HS code 690990 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 690990 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import ceramic wares valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: 4.00% of $10,000 USD = $400 USD. Always ensure that the customs value is determined according to the rules of the importing country, often based on the transaction value.
What criteria distinguish goods classified under HS 690990 from other ceramic products?
HS code 690990 covers 'Other' ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical, or other technical uses, not specifically covered by HS code 690911 (porcelain or china). The key distinguishing factor is the intended use. Goods classified here are specifically designed and manufactured for technical applications, such as laboratory equipment (e.g., crucibles, evaporating dishes, funnels made of technical ceramics), industrial components, or other specialized uses where the material properties of the ceramic are essential for performance. General ceramic household articles or decorative items would not fall under this code.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 690990?
Standard import documentation for HS code 690990 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the technical ceramic wares, additional documentation may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially technical specifications or declarations from the manufacturer confirming the intended technical use of the product. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS code 690990?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 690990. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) that may offer duty-free entry for qualifying goods. The European Union's TARIC system details preferential rates for goods from countries with which the EU has association or free trade agreements. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff outlines preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the UK has trade agreements. It is essential to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and ensure compliance with the rules of origin for the relevant trade agreement.