HS 901380 Other devices, appliances and instruments
Quick Answer: Devices, appliances, and instruments not specifically classified elsewhere under Chapter 90 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.70% ad valorem, and the US at 6.6% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This residual category encompasses a broad range of optical instruments, medical devices, and other scientific equipment that do not fit into more specific HS headings. Importers should carefully review the specific product's function and characteristics to ensure it is correctly classified under 901380, as misclassification can lead to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying tariff treatments across major trading blocs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9013804000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9013800000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9013808000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9013800000 | — | — | — |
| 9013804000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9013808000 | 4.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9013802000 | 6.6% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 9013809100 | 4.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 901380 | — | — | — |
| 9013804000 | 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 9013.80?
Imports of Other devices, appliances and 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, 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 901380 cover?
This subheading covers other devices, appliances, and instruments not specifically enumerated in the preceding subheadings of heading 9013. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category is residual for items within heading 9013 that are not liquid crystal devices, lasers, or optical appliances. For example, certain specialized optical instruments or devices that do not fit into more specific categories within Chapter 90 may be classified here, provided they meet the general criteria of heading 9013. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail on the scope of this residual classification.
What falls outside HS 901380?
The following products are excluded from HS 901380: devices primarily classified under other headings of Chapter 90, such as optical microscopes (9011), drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments (9017), and instruments and apparatus for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary uses (9018). Additionally, complete optical appliances like binoculars (9005) or photographic cameras (9006) are not classified here. Devices whose primary function is not optical or related to the specific exclusions of heading 9013 will also be classified elsewhere, even if they contain optical components.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901380?
A common error is misclassifying devices that have a primary function outside the scope of heading 9013. For instance, a medical device with an integrated optical component might be incorrectly classified under 901380 when its primary medical function dictates classification under heading 9018. This often arises from not adhering to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), which prioritizes classification based on the essential character of the good. Importers must ascertain the principal purpose of the device before assigning it to this residual subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 901380?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901380 involves a systematic approach. First, determine if the product falls under any more specific subheading within heading 9013 (e.g., 9013.10 for liquid crystal devices). If not, confirm that the product is indeed an optical appliance, instrument, or device. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. If the product's essential character aligns with the residual scope of 901380, and it's not excluded by other headings, then this classification is appropriate.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901380?
A specialized optical alignment tool weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $500 USD = $25.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for a product classified under HTS code 9013.80.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901380?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901380, 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 Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific agreement's documentation requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 901380, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 901380, covering 'Other devices, appliances and instruments,' has varied Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates depending on the importing country. For example, the U.S. MFN rate is 0.00%, while the EU's TARIC system may list rates such as 4.70% or 6.6% for specific subheadings. Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates. For instance, under certain agreements (indicated by codes like A, AU, BH, CL, CO, etc.), the duty rate can be Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 901380?
HS code 901380 is a residual category for devices, appliances, and instruments that are not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 90 (Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof). Classification hinges on whether the item meets the general description of an instrument or appliance and is not more specifically classified elsewhere. This often involves analyzing the primary function of the device. For example, a specialized medical monitoring device not fitting into a more specific medical instrument code would likely fall here. Importers must ensure the item's function and characteristics align with the 'other' nature of this code, as more specific HS codes within Chapter 90 or other chapters take precedence.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 901380?
Standard import documentation is generally required for goods under HS code 901380. 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. Depending on the specific nature of the 'device, appliance, or instrument,' additional documentation may be necessary. This could include certificates of origin to claim preferential duty rates, product safety certifications, or licenses from relevant government agencies if the item is subject to specific import controls (e.g., certain medical devices). Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
How is the import duty for HS 901380 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS code 901380 depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country and the basis of valuation (usually the customs value of the goods). Duties can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a country applies a 4.70% ad valorem duty rate to an item classified under 901380, and the customs value of the shipment is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 4.70% of $10,000 = 0.0470 × $10,000 = $470. If a specific duty rate were applied, such as $5 per unit, and 100 units were imported, the duty would be 100 units × $5/unit = $500.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact duty rates for HS code 901380, and how can importers leverage them?
Several trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods under HS code 901380. For instance, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU Free Trade Agreements (with countries like Canada, Japan, or South Korea), and others referenced by codes such as (A, AU, BH, CL, CO, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG) often provide duty-free or reduced-duty access. To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement. This typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration from the exporter, proving the goods are considered originating in the partner country. Consulting the relevant trade agreement text and the customs authority is essential to confirm eligibility and compliance.