HS 902129 Other

HS code 902129, classified under 'Other hearing aids and parts and accessories thereof', covers hearing aids not specifically listed under 902121 (body worn) or 902122 (ear-level). This includes less common or custom-made hearing devices. Duty rates vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the EU, under TARIC, the rate is also Free. The UK Trade Tariff shows a Free rate for this code. However, importers must always verify rates based on the specific country of import and any applicable trade agreements.

The duty calculation for HS code 902129 depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country. Since many countries offer duty-free entry for hearing aids (as indicated by 'Free' rates for 902129 in the US, EU, and UK), the duty amount is often zero. However, if a duty were applicable, it would typically be calculated as either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the item's value) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit). For instance, if a country applied a hypothetical 20% ad valorem duty on hearing aids classified under 902129, and an importer declared goods valued at $1,000, the duty would be $1,000 * 20% = $200. If a specific duty of $50 per unit applied, and 10 units were imported, the duty would be 10 units * $50/unit = $500.

When importing products under HS code 902129, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transport. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the 'other' hearing aids, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially a declaration from a medical professional or regulatory body confirming the device's compliance with health and safety standards, especially if it's a custom or specialized device. Importers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for precise requirements.

Yes, preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry, may be available for products classified under HS code 902129 through various trade agreements. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods meeting the rules of origin may qualify for preferential treatment. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with partner countries that could offer reduced or zero duties. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin (or equivalent declaration) issued by the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to consult the specific text of the applicable trade agreement and the customs regulations of the importing country to ensure compliance and proper claim of preference.

The primary criterion for classifying a hearing aid under HS code 902129 is that it is not specifically classifiable under HS 902121 (body-worn hearing aids) or HS 902122 (ear-level hearing aids). HS 902121 generally covers devices worn on the body, such as behind-the-ear models where a significant portion is external. HS 902122 typically includes in-the-ear or completely-in-the-canal devices. Therefore, HS 902129 is a residual category for hearing aids that do not fit neatly into these more specific descriptions. This could include specialized custom-molded devices, experimental prototypes, or other unique configurations not covered by the more common classifications. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance on the scope of these headings, and importers should refer to them, along with national tariff interpretations, to ensure correct classification.