HS 901600 Balances
Quick Answer: Balances imported under HS 901600 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at 2.9% ad valorem (MFN). This HS code encompasses a wide range of weighing instruments, from simple mechanical scales to highly precise electronic analytical balances used in laboratories and industrial settings. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific subheadings and origin countries, particularly in the US where preferential rates apply to certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the exact tariff line for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9016001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9016009000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9016001000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
| 9016009000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 901600 | — | — | — |
| 9016004000 | 2.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 9016002000 | 3.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 9016006000 | 3.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
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 9016.00?
Imports of Balances 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 901600 cover?
This subheading covers balances and weights of any type, including analytical balances, precision balances, and laboratory balances, as well as mechanical balances and scales. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses instruments for measuring mass, provided they are not specifically excluded. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this heading applies to instruments that operate by comparing an unknown mass with known masses or by measuring the force exerted by gravity on an object.
What falls outside HS 901600?
The following products are excluded from HS 901600: weighing machinery and equipment for continuous weighing of goods on a conveyor belt (typically classified under heading 8423), scales for weighing persons, household scales, and kitchen scales (often classified under heading 8423), and weighing machinery for use in industrial processes where the weighing is an integral part of the machinery's function, such as in food processing or packaging lines.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901600?
A common error is misclassifying sophisticated weighing instruments that incorporate computing or data processing functions, which may fall under heading 8471 if the primary function is data processing. Additionally, simple spring scales or mechanical scales without a high degree of precision may be incorrectly classified here instead of under heading 8423, which covers other weighing machinery and scales. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) is crucial, particularly GRI 3(b) for compound products.
How should importers classify products under HS 901600?
The correct procedure for classifying balances involves first identifying the primary function of the instrument. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. If the instrument is designed to measure mass with a degree of precision, and is not primarily a component of a larger industrial process or a data processing device, it will likely fall under HS 901600.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901600?
A laboratory analytical balance with a capacity of 220g and a readability of 0.1mg, 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 ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) under subheading 9016.00.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901600?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901600, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA and a certificate of origin for CPTPP, depending on the specific country and product.
```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 901600 (Balances)?
Import duty rates for HS code 901600, which covers 'Balances (other than scales having a sensitivity of 0.01 g or better), including weight-operated electronic balances; parts and accessories thereof', vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 3.70% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may list rates such as 2.9% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a standard rate of 3.70% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for a balance under HS 901600 calculated?
Import duty is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a balance is valued at $1,000 and the MFN duty rate is 3.70%, the duty payable would be $1,000 \times 0.0370 = $37.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the basis of duty calculation in the destination country's tariff.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 901600?
HS code 901600 covers balances that are not highly sensitive laboratory analytical balances (which typically fall under 9016.00.20 in the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, for example). This includes general-purpose balances, including electronic ones, used for weighing. Key classification criteria include the balance's intended use, its weighing capacity, and its sensitivity. Balances with a sensitivity of 0.01 grams or better are generally classified elsewhere, often in subheadings specifically for analytical or laboratory balances. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 901600?
Many trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS 901600. For example, under the U.S. tariff schedule, preferential rates are often listed with codes indicating origin under agreements like CAFTA-DR, USMCA, or specific bilateral agreements. The EU's TARIC system details preferential rates for countries with which the EU has free trade agreements. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff lists preferential rates for goods originating from countries with UK trade agreements. Examples of countries that may benefit from preferential rates include Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), depending on the specific importing country and the terms of the agreement. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required for importing balances under HS code 901600?
Standard import documentation for HS code 901600 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the balance, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, or specific declarations related to accuracy or calibration standards, especially for sensitive or industrial applications. Some countries may require product-specific certifications or compliance statements. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to consult the customs authorities of the importing country or a trade compliance expert for a comprehensive list of required documents.