HS 900661 Photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs
Quick Answer: Photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs imported under HS 900661 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.20% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 35% ad valorem. This HS code encompasses devices that produce a brief, intense burst of light for photography, including electronic flash units (like speedlights) and disposable flashbulbs. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities between major trading blocs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country tariff schedules for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9006610000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9006610000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90066100 | Free | — | — |
| 9006610040 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9006610020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9006610060 | — | — | ["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 900661 cover?
This subheading covers photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes devices designed to produce a brief, intense burst of light for photography, such as electronic flash units (often called strobes) and disposable flashbulbs. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses the apparatus itself and the consumable flashbulbs used with them, excluding components not integral to the flash function.
What falls outside HS 900661?
The following products are excluded from HS 900661: continuous lighting equipment used in photography, such as studio lights or LED panels, which are classified under other headings in Chapter 90. Also excluded are photographic accessories not directly related to flash generation, like camera bags, tripods, or external light meters. Furthermore, spare parts for flash units that are not complete flashbulbs or integrated flash apparatus are typically classified separately based on their specific nature and function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 900661?
A common error is misclassifying integrated camera flash units that are permanently built into a camera body, as these are generally considered part of the camera itself and classified under HS 9006.59 for cameras. Another mistake involves classifying standalone LED lighting panels for photography under this heading; these should be classified as lighting apparatus under Chapter 94. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 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 900661?
The correct procedure for classifying photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs involves first identifying the precise nature of the product. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 9006. A detailed product description, including technical specifications and intended use, should be compared against the wording of subheading 9006.61 to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 900661?
A portable electronic photographic flash unit weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 9006.61. The calculation is: 10% of $150 USD = $15.00. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 900661?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 900661, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation depend on the origin country.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 900661 (Photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 900661 in the United States is 3.20% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). Importers should always verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement to determine the correct duty rate. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the USITC for definitive rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 900661 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 900661 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of photographic flashlight apparatus valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. with an MFN duty rate of 3.20%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 (value) × 0.0320 (duty rate) = $320.00. It is crucial to use the correct dutiable value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of entry.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 900661?
HS code 900661 covers photographic flashlight apparatus and flashbulbs. This includes devices designed to produce a flash of light for photography, such as electronic flash units (speedlights) and disposable flashcubes or bulbs. The apparatus must be specifically designed for use with photographic cameras. Items that are general-purpose lighting devices or solely used for illumination other than for photographic purposes would not be classified under this code. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 900661?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 900661. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a customs entry summary. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any potential product-specific regulations or safety standards required by the importing country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 900661 into the United States?
The United States has several trade agreements that could provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 900661. The most prominent is the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which generally allows for duty-free entry (0.00%) for originating goods. Other agreements, such as those with Australia or Singapore, may also offer reduced or zero duty rates depending on the specific product's origin and adherence to the agreement's rules of origin. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet all stipulated requirements to benefit from these agreements.