HS 901841 Other instruments and appliances, used in dental sciences
Quick Answer: Dental instruments and appliances imported under HS 901841 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a duty-free rate under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, though a 35% rate is also listed. This code specifically covers instruments and appliances used in dental sciences, excluding those for surgical use or for general medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary purposes. Importers should be aware of potential variations in US duty rates and verify specific product eligibility. According to CustomTariffs data, while the primary rates are low in key markets, due diligence is essential for accurate classification and duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018410000 | Free | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 901841 cover?
This subheading covers instruments and appliances specifically designed for use in dental sciences, excluding those for surgical purposes which fall under 9018.49. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items like dental drills, dental engines, and certain dental instruments not otherwise specified. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database further define this category to encompass a broad range of tools and equipment essential for dental diagnosis, treatment, and prophylaxis, excluding general surgical instruments.
What falls outside HS 901841?
The following products are excluded from HS 901841: surgical instruments for dental use (classified under 9018.49), general laboratory equipment not specifically for dental sciences, dental prosthetics like dentures or artificial teeth (often classified under Chapter 90 or Chapter 30 depending on material and function), and dental materials such as cements or filling compounds (typically classified under Chapter 30 or Chapter 38). Items like dental chairs or lighting systems, while used in dental offices, are generally classified under headings related to furniture or lighting, not surgical or medical instruments.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901841?
A common error is misclassifying general surgical instruments as dental instruments or vice versa, particularly when instruments have dual uses. For instance, a general-purpose cutting tool might be mistakenly entered under 9018.41 when its primary application is not dental. Another mistake involves classifying dental materials or consumables, such as impression materials or polishing pastes, under this heading when they belong to other chapters like Chapter 30 (pharmaceutical products) or Chapter 38 (miscellaneous chemical products), failing to adhere to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 which prioritizes the most specific heading.
How should importers classify products under HS 901841?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901841 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and design. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific definitions and examples. It is crucial to determine if the instrument is exclusively or principally designed for dental sciences. If the product's function is ambiguous or it has multiple uses, consider the primary intended application as per GRI 3(b) or 3(c) if necessary, and always refer to the product's technical specifications and manufacturer's declarations.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901841?
A set of 50 dental polishing cups, declared at a customs value of $250 USD, would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 9018.41. The calculation is: 5% of $250 USD = $12.50. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements. For example, if imported from Canada under USMCA, the duty might be free.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901841?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901841, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) which offers Free duty for goods originating from the US, Mexico, and Canada. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also provides preferential rates, often Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific certificate of origin for CPTPP, depending on the agreement and originating country.
```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 901841, covering instruments and appliances used in dental sciences?
Import duty rates for HS code 901841 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also often 0.00% for most countries. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for goods originating from many countries. However, it is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate, as preferential agreements or specific national policies can alter these figures. Always verify the applicable rate based on the country of origin and any existing trade agreements.
How is HS code 901841 classified, and what are the key criteria for determining if an instrument falls under 'other instruments and appliances, used in dental sciences'?
HS code 901841 is a residual category within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System, which covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. For an instrument or appliance to be classified under 901841, it must be specifically designed or adapted for use in dental sciences and not be more specifically classified elsewhere within heading 9018 (which covers instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental or veterinary sciences, including scientigraphic apparatus, medical diathermy apparatus andσκευa diagnostic ultrasound). Key criteria include the instrument's function, design, and intended use in dental procedures such as diagnosis, treatment, or surgery. Examples include certain types of dental drills, scalers, or examination instruments not covered by more specific subheadings.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 901841?
When importing goods under HS code 901841, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the dental instruments, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially import licenses or specific health and safety declarations to ensure compliance with medical device regulations. Importers should consult the customs authorities of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents.
How are import duties calculated for HS code 901841, and can you provide a numerical example?
Import duties for HS code 901841 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the value of the imported goods. For instance, if a country has a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate for this code and you import dental instruments valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 3.5% = $350 USD. It is important to note that some countries may also have specific additional duties or taxes, such as VAT or excise duties, applied on top of the customs duty. Always confirm the exact calculation method and any applicable taxes with the importing country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 901841?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 901841. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the EU. Similarly, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada and Mexico (under USMCA), and other preferential trade programs that could result in duty-free importation of eligible dental instruments. The UK also has numerous trade agreements post-Brexit. To determine eligibility for preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin.