HS 900691 Parts and accessories
Quick Answer: Parts and accessories for photographic cameras and flashlight apparatus imported under HS 900691 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at 5.8% ad valorem (though many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry). This classification specifically covers components and supplementary items designed for use with cameras and flash units, such as lenses, shutters, and carrying cases, but not the complete apparatus itself. Importers should verify specific preferential duty rates applicable to their country of origin, as these can significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9006910000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9006910000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9006910001 | 5.8% | 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 9006.91?
Imports of Parts and accessories 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 900691 cover?
This subheading covers parts and accessories specifically designed for photographic cameras, including those of heading 9006. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes components such as lenses, shutters, flash units, tripods, camera bags, and other items essential for the operation or protection of photographic equipment, provided they are not more specifically classified elsewhere. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this broad scope for components and attachments.
What falls outside HS 900691?
The following products are excluded from HS 900691: complete photographic cameras, which are classified under heading 9006 itself, and general-purpose tools or materials that may be used with cameras but are not specifically designed for them. For instance, generic batteries, standard cleaning cloths not specifically marketed for camera lenses, or general electronic components not exclusively for photographic apparatus would fall under different headings. Items like video cameras, which have distinct classifications, are also not covered.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 900691?
A common error is misclassifying accessories that are more specifically provided for in other headings of the Harmonized System. For example, certain electronic flash units might be classified under heading 8512 if they are primarily considered electrical lighting or signaling equipment, rather than solely as camera accessories. Adherence to Section VI, Note 1 of the Harmonized System, which prioritizes more specific headings, is crucial, and General Interpretative Rule 3(c) may be relevant when multiple headings appear equally applicable.
How should importers classify products under HS 900691?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 900691 involves a thorough examination of the item's function and design. 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 from the WCO. The key is to determine if the part or accessory is specifically designed for photographic cameras under heading 9006 and not classifiable elsewhere based on its primary function or more specific description.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 900691?
A camera lens hood for a DSLR camera, weighing 0.1 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50 USD × 0.07 = $3.50). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, under subheading 9006.91.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 900691?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 900691, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying parts and accessories originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting USMCA requirements is necessary. The specific documentation and origin criteria must be verified for each shipment to ensure compliance.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 900691 (Parts and accessories for photographic cameras, other than cinematographic)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 900691 can vary. For example, the United States applies a 3.70% ad valorem duty. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, under the US-Australia FTA, the duty rate is Free. Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable to their country of origin and the importing country's tariff schedule, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the UK Trade Tariff.
How is the duty for HS code 900691 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 900691 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of camera lenses (classified under 900691) has a declared value of $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 3.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.0370 (duty rate) = $370.00 USD. Some parts may also have specific duties based on quantity, but for 900691, ad valorem is most common. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the relevant customs authority.
What specific criteria determine if a part or accessory falls under HS code 900691?
HS code 900691 covers parts and accessories specifically designed for photographic cameras (excluding cinematographic cameras). This includes items like camera lenses, shutters, flash units, camera bags, tripods, and replacement parts for camera bodies, provided they are not classifiable in more specific headings. The key is that the part or accessory must be primarily intended for use with photographic cameras. For instance, a general-purpose electronic flash unit not specifically designed for cameras would likely be classified elsewhere. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide further clarification on classification principles.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 900691?
When importing parts and accessories for photographic cameras under HS code 900691, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must ensure the description on these documents accurately reflects the specific part or accessory and its intended use with photographic cameras. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement (e.g., USMCA, EU-UK TCA), a Certificate of Origin or other proof of eligibility as specified by the agreement will be mandatory. Some countries may also require product-specific declarations or certifications.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 900691, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing duties to Free for HS code 900691. Examples include agreements between the US and countries like Australia (Free), South Korea (Free), and members of CAFTA-DR (often Free or significantly reduced). The EU has numerous trade agreements offering preferential rates, and the UK has its own set of agreements post-Brexit. To verify eligibility, importers must consult the specific trade agreement between the exporting country and the importing country. This involves checking the rules of origin within the agreement, which dictate the conditions under which a product qualifies for preferential treatment. A valid Certificate of Origin issued by the exporter or manufacturer, compliant with the specific agreement's requirements, is typically essential for claiming these reduced duties.