HS 901530 Levels
Quick Answer: Levels imported under HS 901530 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at rates up to 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from free to 40% ad valorem. This HS code covers instruments designed to establish or verify a horizontal or vertical plane, commonly known as spirit levels, bubble levels, or water levels. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities across major trading blocs. For instance, while the UK offers duty-free entry, the US has a substantial tariff on certain types of levels. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates based on the importing country and the exact product specifications.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9015300000 | — | — | — |
| 9015301000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9015309000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9015300000 | — | — | — |
| 9015301000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 9015309000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9015304000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9015308000 | 2.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 901530 | — | — | — |
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 9015.30?
Imports of Levels 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 901530 cover?
This subheading covers levels, which are instruments designed to determine or verify whether a surface is horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes spirit levels, bubble levels, water levels, and laser levels specifically intended for leveling purposes. These instruments are characterized by their ability to indicate deviation from the horizontal or vertical plane, often through a visible bubble or a projected beam.
What falls outside HS 901530?
The following products are excluded from HS 901530: measuring tapes (HS 9017), surveying equipment such as theodolites and total stations (HS 901520 and 901510 respectively), and general-purpose measuring tools that do not specifically indicate horizontality or verticality. For instance, rulers, protractors, and squares, while used for measurement, do not fall under the definition of a "level" as per the WCO nomenclature. Laser pointers not designed for leveling applications are also classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901530?
A common error is misclassifying laser measuring devices that perform multiple functions beyond simple leveling, such as distance measurement or angle calculation, under HS 901530. According to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, if goods are classifiable under two or more headings, the heading which describes the essential character of the goods shall be taken. Therefore, a multi-functional laser device might be classified under a more appropriate heading based on its primary function, not solely because it includes a leveling capability.
How should importers classify products under HS 901530?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901530 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and primary function. Importers and customs brokers should 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. It is crucial to determine if the instrument's core purpose is to indicate horizontality or verticality; if so, HS 901530 is likely applicable. Always verify the specific product description against the subheading text.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901530?
A Stabila 70-inch aluminum spirit level, declared at a customs value of $50.00 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, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 9015.30.0000. The calculation is: 7.0% × $50.00 = $3.50. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901530?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901530, 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, provided a valid Certificate of Origin is submitted. Additionally, goods from certain developing countries may benefit from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), potentially leading to a Free duty rate, requiring a GSP Form A. For EU member states, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement may offer preferential rates, often Free, with a self-certified origin declaration on the invoice.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 901530 (Levels)?
Import duty rates for HS code 901530, which covers 'Levels', vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a rate of 3.70% ad valorem under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often has rates around 2.8% ad valorem for goods from most countries, though preferential rates may apply. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists specific rates, which can be found by searching the UK government's website. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact applicable duty.
What classification criteria determine if an instrument falls under HS code 901530 for Levels?
HS code 901530 is specifically for 'Levels'. This includes instruments designed to establish a horizontal or vertical plane, such as spirit levels, bubble levels, laser levels, and water levels. The key criterion is the instrument's primary function: to indicate whether a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical. Instruments with secondary leveling functions but primarily designed for other purposes (e.g., certain surveying instruments) may be classified elsewhere. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
How is the import duty for HS 901530 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 901530 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of levels is valued at $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate in the US is 3.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0370 (Duty Rate) = $370.00 USD. Some countries might also have specific duties based on quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the exact calculation method for the destination country.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 901530?
Standard import documentation for HS code 901530 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the levels; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a customs declaration. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any specific product safety or compliance standards mandated by the importing country for measuring instruments.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 901530?
Yes, common trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 901530. For instance, goods originating from countries that are part of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00% or significantly reduced, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries that can lead to reduced or eliminated duties on levels originating from those partner nations. To benefit from these agreements, importers must possess a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet all stipulated origin criteria.