HS 901510 Rangefinders

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What products does HS 901510 cover?

This subheading covers rangefinders, which are instruments designed to determine the distance to a target. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes optical rangefinders, laser rangefinders, and ultrasonic rangefinders. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further clarify that these devices are primarily used for measuring distances in fields such as surveying, navigation, military applications, and golf. Devices solely for measuring distance without the primary function of "ranging" may fall under different headings.

What falls outside HS 901510?

The following products are excluded from HS 901510: simple measuring tapes, rulers, and odometers, which are classified under Chapter 9017. Also excluded are devices that measure other parameters, such as speedometers (Chapter 87), altimeters (Chapter 9015), or GPS devices that primarily provide location data rather than distance measurement to a specific target. Instruments that combine rangefinding with other complex functions, such as advanced surveying equipment, may be classified under more specific subheadings within heading 9015 or other chapters depending on their principal function.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 901510?

A common error is misclassifying devices that have rangefinding capabilities but whose primary function is different. For instance, a complex surveying instrument that includes a rangefinder but is primarily designed for triangulation and data recording might not fall under 901510. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are described by several headings or subheadings, they are to be classified according to the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may also incorrectly classify simple distance-measuring tools that lack the sophistication of a dedicated rangefinder.

How should importers classify products under HS 901510?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901510 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official HS Nomenclature, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for detailed explanatory notes and rulings. It is crucial to determine if the instrument's main purpose is to measure distance to a target. If the product's function is solely to measure distance and it fits the description of a rangefinder, then 901510 is likely appropriate. Always verify with the relevant customs authority if uncertainty exists.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901510?

A Leica Rangemaster CRF 2800.2 golf laser rangefinder, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 9015.10. The calculation is: 7.0% × $500 USD = $35.00. It is important to note that specific models or types of rangefinders might have different duty rates or be subject to other trade measures.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901510?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating rangefinders from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For imports into the European Union, originating rangefinders from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU, such as Switzerland or the United Kingdom, may also benefit from reduced or zero duties, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.

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