HS 901850 Other ophthalmic instruments and appliances
Quick Answer: Other ophthalmic instruments and appliances imported under HS 901850 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at 60% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification encompasses a broad range of medical devices used for examining, diagnosing, and treating the eyes, excluding those specifically listed elsewhere in Chapter 90. Examples include refractors, keratometers, slit lamps, and certain types of ophthalmic lasers. Importers should note the significant duty rate disparity for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific product eligibility and any applicable trade agreements for each jurisdiction.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018500000 | — | — | — |
| 9018501000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018509000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018501000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9018509000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9018500000 | 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 901850 cover?
This subheading covers other ophthalmic instruments and appliances not elsewhere specified within Heading 9018, which pertains to medical, surgical, dental, and veterinary instruments and appliances. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes devices such as ophthalmoscopes, slit lamps, perimeters, and tonometers used for examining the eye. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail, confirming the inclusion of instruments for visual acuity testing and refraction, provided they are primarily designed for ophthalmic examination or diagnosis.
What falls outside HS 901850?
The following products are excluded from HS 901850: optical instruments and appliances that are not primarily for ophthalmic examination, such as microscopes (HS 9011), binoculars (HS 9005), and photographic cameras (HS 9006). Also excluded are ophthalmic eyeglasses, goggles, and similar articles, which are classified under HS 9004. Instruments for surgical operations on the eye, if specifically designed for that purpose, would fall under other subheadings of HS 9018, such as 9018.41 for dental instruments.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 901850?
A common error is misclassifying general optical instruments or consumer-grade vision correction devices under this subheading. For instance, simple magnifying glasses not specifically designed for ophthalmic examination might be incorrectly classified here. Furthermore, confusion can arise with instruments that have dual functions; General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods, or GRI 3(c) for goods appearing equally classifiable under two headings, may need to be applied if an instrument has significant non-ophthalmic applications.
How should importers classify products under HS 901850?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901850 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. They should then examine the product's primary function, design, and intended use, comparing these characteristics against the descriptive notes and headings within Chapter 90. Obtaining detailed technical specifications and product literature from the manufacturer is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901850?
A Welch Allyn PanOptic Ophthalmoscope, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $300 USD, would attract a US duty of $21.00. 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 code 901850. The calculation is: $300 (declared value) × 0.07 (duty rate) = $21.00 (duty amount).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901850?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901850, 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 meeting rules of origin from the UK or EU. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK trade, 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 901850 (Other ophthalmic instruments and appliances)?
Import duty rates for HS code 901850 vary significantly by country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, other countries may have different rates. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff also list specific duties that can change based on trade agreements and origin. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and current duty rate.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 901850, and can you provide an example?
Duty calculation for HS code 901850 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). If the duty is ad valorem, the calculation is: (Customs Value of Goods × Duty Rate). For instance, if an importer brings in ophthalmic instruments valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.035 = $350.00. If a specific duty applies, it would be (Quantity of Goods × Rate per Unit). It is crucial to verify the calculation basis (ad valorem or specific) in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 901850?
When importing under HS code 901850, standard import documentation is usually required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the ophthalmic instruments, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin, import licenses or permits, and potentially proof of compliance with medical device regulations or standards (e.g., FDA approval in the U.S., CE marking in the EU). Importers and customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 901850 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 901850 are often available under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes. For example, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the United States, the European Union, or the United Kingdom may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. To claim preferential treatment, importers must typically provide a valid certificate of origin or other proof of preferential status as stipulated by the specific trade agreement. Consulting the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs regulations is essential to determine eligibility and requirements.
What are the key criteria for classifying instruments under HS code 901850 as 'Other ophthalmic instruments and appliances'?
HS code 901850 is a residual category for ophthalmic instruments and appliances not specifically listed under other subheadings within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes devices used for examining, diagnosing, or treating the eye, which do not fit into more specific headings like those for microscopes or refractometers. Examples might include certain types of ophthalmic lasers (if not classified elsewhere), specialized surgical instruments for eye procedures, or diagnostic equipment not covered by other codes. Classification relies on the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and national customs rulings. If an instrument has multiple functions, classification is usually based on its principal function. Importers should consult the WCO's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national customs authorities for definitive classification guidance.