HS 901839 Other
Quick Answer: Syringes, needles, catheters, and similar medical instruments imported under HS 901839 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 30% ad valorem. This residual classification applies to instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences that are not specifically enumerated elsewhere within Chapter 90. Importers should exercise caution as the broad nature of "other" can lead to varied interpretations and duty rates across jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, the significant duty differential in the US necessitates careful product identification to ensure accurate classification and avoid overpayment of duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018390000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018390000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018390020 | — | — | ["doz."] |
| 9018390040 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 90183900 | Free | — | — |
| 9018390050 | — | — | ["No."] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 901839 cover?
This subheading covers "other" instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences, which are not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings of heading 9018. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this category is a residual one for medical devices that do not fit into more specific classifications within 9018, such as syringes, needles, catheters, or surgical instruments. Examples include certain specialized diagnostic equipment or therapeutic devices not otherwise specified.
What falls outside HS 901839?
The following products are excluded from HS 901839: instruments and appliances specifically listed in preceding subheadings of heading 9018, such as syringes (9018.31), needles (9018.32), and catheters (9018.39.0000, which is actually a specific item within the "other" category, but illustrates the principle of specificity). Also excluded are general laboratory equipment, dental burrs (often classified under 9018.49), and surgical gloves (typically classified under 4015.19). The principle of essential character and specific enumeration dictates exclusion.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901839?
A common error is misclassifying items that have a more specific HS code within heading 9018 or even in other chapters. For instance, simple medical tubing might be incorrectly placed here when it should be classified based on its material and function elsewhere. Applying General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c) prematurely, before exhausting specific enumerations, is also a frequent mistake. Importers must carefully review all subheadings within 9018 and consider the specific function and composition of the article before resorting to the residual "other" category.
How should importers classify products under HS 901839?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901839 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. They should meticulously examine the product's intended use, design, and materials, comparing them against the descriptions of all subheadings within heading 9018. Only after confirming that the product does not fit any more specific classification should it be considered for 901839.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901839?
A shipment of 1,000 sterile disposable surgical drapes, weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem for a specific type of surgical drape classified under 9018.90.7500 (a common classification for such items, though specific classification may vary), the calculation would be 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901839?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901839, 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 EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, often Free, for goods originating from the UK into the EU or vice versa. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 901839?
HS code 901839 covers 'Other' instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental or veterinary sciences, not elsewhere specified. Duty rates vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the general (MFN) duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the EU, under TARIC, the rate can be 0.00% ad valorem for many countries, but specific rates apply based on origin. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often free for goods from certain preferential agreements, but standard rates can apply. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for precise rates.
How is the duty for HS code 901839 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 901839 is typically based on the 'ad valorem' method, meaning a percentage of the item's value. For instance, if a shipment of medical tubing (classified under 901839) has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the MFN duty rate in the US is 3.5%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $350.00. Some products under this code might also have specific duties based on quantity, but ad valorem is most common for 'other' instruments.
What classification criteria determine if an item falls under HS code 901839?
HS code 901839 is a residual category for instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences that are not specifically enumerated in other subheadings of heading 9018. To classify an item here, it must meet the general criteria of heading 9018 (instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental or veterinary sciences, including scientigraphic apparatus, medical diathermy apparatus andσκευe for testing eyes) and not fit into more specific codes like 9018.31 (Needles, catheters, tubes and similar articles) or 9018.32 (Tubing of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber, with or without fittings).
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 901839?
Importing goods under HS code 901839, especially medical devices, often requires specific documentation beyond standard commercial invoices and bills of lading. Importers should be prepared to provide: a detailed commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and potentially a pro-forma invoice. Crucially, depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the 'other' instrument, you may need: a medical device registration or license from the relevant health authority (e.g., FDA in the US, EMA in the EU), product specifications, safety certifications, and proof of compliance with local medical device standards. Consult the destination country's customs authority and health regulatory bodies for a definitive list.
Do trade agreements, like USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 901839?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 901839. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00% ad valorem, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries, which can reduce or eliminate duties on products classified under 901839 if the origin requirements are satisfied. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin from the exporter to claim preferential treatment under these agreements. Always verify the specific terms and origin rules of the applicable trade agreement.