HS 901910 Mechano-therapy appliances; massage apparatus; psychological aptitude-testing apparatus

Quick Answer: Appliances for mechano-therapy, massage, and psychological aptitude testing imported under HS 901910 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US with a range of rates, primarily free for many items, but with some specific apparatus subject to a 55% ad valorem duty. This HS code encompasses devices designed for physical therapy, such as vibrating machines or therapeutic massagers, as well as apparatus used for assessing mental capabilities. Importers should carefully verify the specific subheadings within 901910 for their particular product to ascertain the precise duty rate applicable in the US. According to CustomTariffs data, while many of these goods benefit from duty-free entry in major markets, due diligence is crucial for US imports.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9019100000 0.00 % — —
9019109000 0.00 % — —
9019101000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9019100000 0.00 % — —
9019101000 0.00 % — —
9019109000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9019102010 — — ["No."]
9019102030 — — ["No."]
9019102045 — — ["No."]
9019102090 — — ["No."]
9019106000 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?

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What products does HS 901910 cover?

This subheading covers appliances designed for mechanical therapy, including massage apparatus and psychological aptitude-testing apparatus, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes devices that apply mechanical force or vibration to the body for therapeutic purposes, such as vibrating chairs, massagers, and electro-stimulation devices for muscle stimulation. It also encompasses apparatus used to assess psychological aptitudes, often involving response measurement to stimuli, as further detailed in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database.

What falls outside HS 901910?

The following products are excluded from HS 901910: general exercise equipment not specifically for mechanical therapy or massage (e.g., treadmills, stationary bikes classified under Chapter 85 or 95), medical devices for diagnosis or treatment of specific conditions (e.g., pacemakers, surgical instruments classified under Chapter 9018), and simple personal care items like electric toothbrushes or hair dryers. Apparatus for physical training or rehabilitation that does not primarily function as a mechano-therapy or massage device are also typically classified elsewhere, often under heading 9019.20 for ozone therapy, oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, artificial respiration or other therapeutic respiration apparatus.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 901910?

A common error is misclassifying therapeutic devices that incorporate electronic components but whose primary function is not mechanical therapy or massage. For instance, a device primarily for heat therapy with a minor vibrating function might be incorrectly classified here. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3(b) concerning goods put up in sets for retail sale or GRI 3(c) for the essential character, is crucial. Misinterpreting the primary function of complex devices often leads to incorrect classification under HS 901910.

How should importers classify products under HS 901910?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 901910 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, function, and intended use, referencing official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the apparatus is primarily for mechanical therapy, massage, or psychological aptitude testing. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes and any specific national interpretations is essential. If the product has multiple functions, the essential character must be identified to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 901910?

A Shiatsu massage chair weighing 75 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 25% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.25 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the specific tariff provision found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 901910.20, which covers massage apparatus.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 901910?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 901910, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free entry for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 901920 HS 901811 HS 901890 HS 902410 HS 902110 HS 901850

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 901910 (Mechano-therapy appliances; massage apparatus; psychological aptitude-testing apparatus)?

Duty rates for HS code 901910 vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may also apply. In the European Union, the TARIC system indicates a 0.00% duty rate for goods originating from many countries with preferential trade agreements, but the standard rate can differ. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.

How is the duty calculated for a massage apparatus classified under HS 901910?

The duty calculation depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For HS 901910, many countries have an ad valorem rate. For instance, if a country applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty on a massage apparatus valued at $500, the duty would be calculated as: 3.5% of $500 = 0.035 * $500 = $17.50. If a specific duty applied, such as $10 per unit, and you imported 10 units, the duty would be 10 units * $10/unit = $100.

What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS 901910?

HS code 901910 covers appliances that operate by mechanical action for therapy or massage, and apparatus for psychological aptitude testing. Key criteria include: 1. Mechanical Operation: The appliance must use mechanical means (e.g., vibration, percussion, suction, electrical stimulation of muscles) to achieve its therapeutic or massage effect. 2. Therapeutic or Massage Purpose: The primary function must be for physical therapy, rehabilitation, or massage. 3. Psychological Aptitude Testing: Apparatus specifically designed for assessing psychological aptitudes fall under this heading. Simple vibrating devices not intended for therapy or massage, or general electrical appliances, would likely be classified elsewhere.

What documentation is typically required for importing massage apparatus under HS 901910?

Standard import documentation for HS 901910 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documents may be required. This can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially declarations of conformity or safety certifications to ensure the product meets the importing country's health and safety standards, especially for medical or therapeutic devices. Consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.

Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS 901910?

Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS 901910. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates if they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries, which often provide for preferential tariff treatment, including duty reductions or eliminations for products classified under 901910. To claim these benefits, importers must typically provide a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement.