HS 900580 Other instruments
Quick Answer: Optical instruments and devices imported under HS 900580 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.20%, and the US at 8% under the MFN rate. This classification covers a variety of optical instruments not specifically listed in other headings within Chapter 90, such as binoculars, telescopes, and microscopes, when they do not fall under more precise subheadings. Importers should be aware of the varying duty rates across major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, the US also offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners under this code. Careful classification is essential to ensure compliance and optimize duty payments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9005800000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9005800000 | 4.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90058040 | 8% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 9005806000 | 6% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 900580 | — | — | — |
| 9005804020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9005804040 | — | — | ["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 9005.80?
Imports of Other instruments 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, and 15 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 900580 cover?
This subheading covers "Other instruments" not elsewhere specified within Heading 9005, which pertains to optical telescopes and other optical instruments and their parts and accessories. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category is for instruments that are primarily optical in nature but do not fit into the more specific subheadings of 9005.10 (binoculars) or 9005.80.90 (other, including astronomical telescopes). Examples include specialized optical sighting devices for firearms or other equipment, and certain types of optical measuring instruments that are not covered by Chapter 90's other headings.
What falls outside HS 900580?
The following products are excluded from HS 900580: optical telescopes for astronomical purposes (classified under 9005.80.90), binoculars (9005.10), and instruments that are primarily mechanical or electronic, even if they incorporate optical components. For instance, a simple magnifying glass (9013.80) or a camera with optical elements (9006) would be classified elsewhere. Similarly, laser rangefinders that are primarily for distance measurement, not optical observation, would likely fall under other headings such as 9015.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 900580?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other instruments" designation, leading to the incorrect classification of items that have specific headings elsewhere in Chapter 90 or other chapters. For example, optical instruments that are primarily used for surveying or navigation might be mistakenly placed here instead of under HS 9015. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to ensure that the most specific heading is applied, and that composite goods are classified according to their essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 900580?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 900580 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and construction. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. If the instrument is primarily optical, not a binocular or astronomical telescope, and not specifically covered by another heading, then 9005.80 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 900580?
A specific optical sighting device for a rifle, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value: 5.0% × $200 USD = $10.00. This calculation is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, where such specialized optical sighting devices, if not otherwise specified, would fall under 9005.80.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 900580?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 900580, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically need to provide a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP benefits, depending on the specific agreement and importing jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 900580, 'Other instruments'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 900580 can vary significantly depending on the importing country. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule lists a 4.00% ad valorem duty for this code. In contrast, the UK Trade Tariff shows a rate of 4.20% ad valorem. It's crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the precise MFN rate. For preferential rates, many trade agreements offer reduced or free entry. For example, under certain agreements, rates can be as low as Free (e.g., for beneficiaries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), South Korea (KR), Singapore (SG)). Always verify eligibility and required documentation for preferential treatment.
How is the import duty for HS 900580 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 900580 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import instruments valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 4.00% (Duty Rate) = $400 USD (Duty Amount). If the duty were based on a specific rate (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be Rate per Unit × Number of Units. Always ensure your customs value is correctly determined according to the importing country's valuation rules, often based on the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 900580 'Other instruments'?
HS code 900580 is a residual category within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof'. This code is used for instruments and apparatus that are not specifically listed under other headings within Chapter 90, nor under any other chapter of the HS Nomenclature. To classify an item here, it must first be determined that it does not fit into more specific headings like those for binoculars (9005.10), telescopes (9005.80.20), or microscopes (9011). The key is 'other' – it's for instruments of a similar kind or purpose to those in heading 9005 (like binoculars and telescopes) but not explicitly named.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 900580, especially when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS code 900580 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and an import declaration. When claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), additional documentation is usually required. This often includes a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin completed on the invoice or a separate document, as specified by the particular FTA. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS), a specific format for the declaration of origin is mandated. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the goods meet the Rules of Origin stipulated in the relevant FTA and that all documentation is accurate and complete to avoid penalties and delays.
Which common trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 900580, and what are some examples of these rates?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 900580. For example:
- USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): Generally provides for duty-free treatment for originating goods.
- EU Trade Agreements: Agreements with countries like Canada, Japan, and South Korea often reduce or eliminate duties on originating goods.
- UK Trade Agreements: Similar to the EU, the UK has FTAs with many countries that can offer preferential rates.
Examples of preferential rates include 'Free' for beneficiaries under agreements such as those with Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) in some jurisdictions. It is essential to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the text of the relevant trade agreement to confirm the preferential rate and the applicable Rules of Origin for HS 900580.