HS 900219 Other
Quick Answer: Lenses and prisms imported under HS 900219 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a range of rates, including free and 45% ad valorem, depending on specific product characteristics. This residual classification, "Other," applies to lenses and prisms not specifically enumerated in preceding headings within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System, typically for optical instruments. Importers should exercise caution as the broad nature of this code necessitates careful review of specific product details and applicable US tariff provisions to determine the correct duty rate. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002190000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002190000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002190000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 900219 cover?
This subheading covers "other" lenses, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements, whether or not mounted, other than those of heading 9001. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, and as reflected in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this residual category is for optical elements that do not fit into the more specific subheadings of 9002. This includes specialized optical components not otherwise specified, such as certain types of beam splitters, diffusers, or custom-designed optical assemblies.
What falls outside HS 900219?
The following products are excluded from HS 900219: optical elements specifically covered by other subheadings within heading 9002, such as photographic or cinematographic lenses (9002.11), or specific types of optical elements like mirrors for instruments (9002.90). Additionally, complete optical instruments, such as telescopes or microscopes, are classified under heading 9005 or 9010 respectively, and simple optical elements not intended for assembly into instruments or apparatus, like spectacle lenses, fall under heading 9001. Items that are not optical in nature, even if they have a reflective or refractive surface, are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 900219?
A common error is misclassifying complete optical instruments or assemblies as mere optical elements under HS 900219. This often occurs when the item's primary function is that of a finished instrument, rather than a component. For instance, a complete camera lens assembly, even if it contains multiple optical elements, should be classified under its specific subheading (e.g., 9002.11 for photographic lenses), not as "other" optical elements. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 900219?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 900219 involves a thorough examination of the product's specific characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. If the optical element is not specifically enumerated in a preceding subheading of heading 9002, and it is not a complete optical instrument or a simple optical element covered by heading 9001, then classification under 900219 may be appropriate. A detailed technical description and product literature are essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 900219?
A specialized optical prism weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would, if imported into the United States and classified under HS 900219, attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for this classification. The calculation is: 7.0% of $500 USD = $35.00. This rate is subject to change and specific country of origin rules.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 900219?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 900219, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating optical elements may be eligible for a preferential rate of Free. The top origin countries benefiting from such agreements for this category often include Canada and Mexico. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required, detailing the product's origin and compliance with the agreement's rules of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 900219, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 900219 covers 'Other' objective lenses, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements, whether or not mounted, other than such elements of glass not optically worked. Duty rates can vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may differ. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and any applicable trade agreements to determine the exact duty rate, including any preferential treatment.
What specific criteria determine if an optical element falls under HS code 900219 ('Other')?
HS code 900219 is a residual category for objective lenses, prisms, mirrors, and other optical elements (whether or not mounted) that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. The key criterion is that the item must be an optical element, meaning it is designed to manipulate light through optical principles (reflection, refraction, diffraction). It must also not be specifically classified elsewhere, such as in 9002.11 (for photographic cameras) or 9002.12 (for projection cameras). If an optical element does not meet the criteria for other specific headings, it generally falls under 900219.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 900219?
Standard import documentation is generally required for goods classified under HS code 900219. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, and value of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the specific nature of the optical element and the importing country's regulations, additional certifications or technical specifications may be requested to verify compliance with safety or performance standards.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 900219, using a hypothetical example?
The calculation depends on the specific duty rate applicable. Let's assume an importing country applies a 4.5% ad valorem duty rate to HS code 900219. If an importer brings in a shipment of optical elements valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 USD × 4.5% (or 0.045) = $450 USD. This is an ad valorem duty, meaning it is based on the value of the imported goods. Always verify the exact duty rate and its basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) from the official tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 900219?
The applicability of preferential duty rates for HS code 900219 depends entirely on the specific trade agreements between the exporting and importing countries. For example, if the United States is the importing country, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) might qualify for reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the European Union's TARIC system incorporates rates from various EU trade agreements. Importers must consult the relevant trade agreement text and country-specific tariff databases (like the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU's TARIC, or the UK's Trade Tariff) to confirm eligibility and claim preferential treatment.