HS 901710 Drafting tables and machines, whether or not automatic
Quick Answer: Drafting tables and machines, whether or not automatic, imported under HS 901710 enter the UK at rates up to 2.00%, the EU at rates up to 2.70%, and the US at rates up to 45%, with some preferential rates available. This classification covers mechanical or electronic drafting tables, drawing boards, and drafting machines designed for creating technical drawings, plans, or schematics. These can range from manual drawing boards to sophisticated computer-aided design (CAD) workstations. Importers should verify specific product functionalities and origin to determine applicable duty rates, as preferential treatment significantly impacts landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9017100000 | — | — | — |
| 9017101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9017109000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9017100000 | — | — | — |
| 9017101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9017109000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 901710 | — | — | — |
| 9017108000 | 3.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 9017104000 | Free | — | ["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 9017.10?
Imports of Drafting tables and machines, whether or not automatic 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 901710 cover?
This subheading covers drafting tables and drafting machines, whether or not automatic, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. These instruments are specifically designed for technical drawing, architectural plans, and engineering schematics. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database, this category includes devices that facilitate the precise drawing of lines, curves, and geometric shapes, often incorporating features for measurement and alignment.
What falls outside HS 901710?
The following products are excluded from HS 901710: general-purpose drawing instruments like rulers and protractors (typically classified under HS 901720), electronic plotting machines that primarily function as printers or plotters for digital output (often classified under HS 8443 or HS 8471), and simple drawing boards not equipped with mechanical drafting aids. Also excluded are computer-aided design (CAD) software, which is considered intellectual property and not a physical good for customs classification purposes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901710?
A common error is misclassifying sophisticated digital drafting tables that incorporate advanced computing and display functionalities. If a drafting table's primary function shifts to that of a computer or a specialized display device for CAD software, it may fall under HS 8471 or other relevant headings, rather than HS 901710. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods, considering the essential character, is crucial when such ambiguities arise.
How should importers classify products under HS 901710?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901710 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and functional capabilities. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and compare the product's features against the descriptive notes and Explanatory Notes of the WCO. Verification of whether the item is a "drafting table" or "drafting machine" with automatic features is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901710?
A "Kuhlmann" brand automatic drafting machine weighing 150 kg and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $350.00. 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 HS 901710. The calculation is $5,000 (customs value) × 0.07 (duty rate) = $350.00 (duty amount).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901710?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901710, 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) may also offer preferential rates for member countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction, is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 901710 (Drafting tables and machines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 901710 can vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the general rate is 2.00% ad valorem. In the EU, under TARIC, the rate is 0.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 2.70% 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 duty calculated for an import under HS 901710?
Duty calculation for HS 901710 is typically based on the ad valorem method, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a drafting machine is valued at $5,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the import duty would be $5,000 USD * 0.02 = $100 USD. Some specific items or origins might have additional duties or be subject to different valuation methods, so always verify the specific calculation basis.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 901710?
HS code 901710 covers 'Drafting tables and machines, whether or not automatic'. The primary classification criterion is the function of the product. Items classified here are designed for the creation of technical drawings, plans, or designs. This includes both manual drafting tables and more sophisticated, often computer-aided (CAD), drafting machines. Accessories or parts specifically designed for these machines may fall under different HS codes, so it's important to classify the main article.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 901710?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 901710 are often available under various free trade agreements (FTAs). For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the US's FTAs, such as with Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Chile (CL), might receive duty-free entry (Free). Similarly, the EU and UK have numerous trade agreements that can reduce or eliminate duties for originating goods. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to claim these preferential rates.
What documentation is typically required for importing drafting tables and machines under HS 901710?
Standard import documentation for HS 901710 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 country of import and origin, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For certain types of drafting machines, especially those with electronic components, specific safety or conformity certifications might also be necessary. Always consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list.