HS 902680 Other instruments or apparatus
Quick Answer: Instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of liquids or gases, not elsewhere specified, imported under HS 902680 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a rate of $4.50 each plus 65% for some lines, with others free. This residual category captures devices not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 90, such as flow meters, level gauges, and pressure indicators for various industrial applications. Importers should verify specific product descriptions against the detailed tariff schedules of the destination country to ensure correct classification and duty assessment. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for precise classification to avoid potential penalties and delays.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9026800000 | — | — | — |
| 9026802000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9026808000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9026800000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9026802000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9026808000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 902680 | — | — | — |
| 9026804000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9026802000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9026806000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 902680 cover?
This subheading covers instruments and apparatus not specified or included elsewhere in heading 9026. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes devices for measuring or checking electrical quantities, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and frequency counters, as well as instruments for measuring non-electrical quantities like pressure gauges, flow meters, and temperature sensors, provided they are not specifically classified under other subheadings of 9026. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this broad scope for devices not falling into more specific categories within heading 9026.
What falls outside HS 902680?
The following products are excluded from HS 902680: instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (heading 9027), drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments (heading 9017), and instruments and apparatus for measuring or detecting ionizing radiation (heading 9030). For example, a gas chromatograph, used for chemical analysis, would be classified under 9027.10, and a simple mechanical ruler, used for drawing, would fall under 9017.20, not 902680.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 902680?
A common error is misclassifying instruments that have a primary function other than measurement or checking of electrical or non-electrical quantities. For instance, a device that primarily performs control functions but also has a minor measuring capability might be incorrectly placed here. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for goods put up in sets for retail sale, or GRI 3(a) for the essential character, is crucial to avoid misclassification, ensuring the predominant function dictates the tariff code.
How should importers classify products under HS 902680?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 902680 involves a thorough review of the product's function and technical specifications against the WCO HS Nomenclature and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the instrument falls under a more specific subheading within heading 9026. If not, they should confirm it is not excluded by other headings and then assign 902680, documenting the rationale with product literature and technical data.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 902680?
A digital multimeter weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($150 USD × 10% = $15.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 9026.80.9000, which covers "Other" electrical measuring instruments.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 902680?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 902680, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin (Form CPTPP) is typically required, depending on the jurisdiction and specific agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 902680, 'Other instruments or apparatus'?
The import duty rates for HS code 902680 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA may be eligible for free entry. Always consult the latest HTS for the specific country of import and any applicable trade agreements. The UK Trade Tariff also lists duty rates, which can differ. For the EU, the TARIC database provides the applicable duties.
How is HS code 902680 defined, and what types of instruments fall under 'Other instruments or apparatus'?
HS code 902680 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; parts and accessories thereof'. This code is used for instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking electrical quantities, or other physical quantities, that are not specifically classified under more precise subheadings within heading 9026. Examples include instruments for measuring flow, level, pressure, or temperature, when not covered by more specific codes. Classification relies on the primary function of the instrument and whether it is specifically enumerated elsewhere in the tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 902680?
Standard import documentation is generally required for goods under HS code 902680. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the specific instrument and its intended use, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include certificates of origin to claim preferential duty rates, technical specifications or manuals to verify functionality and compliance, and potentially import licenses or permits if the instrument is subject to specific regulations (e.g., for certain scientific or industrial applications). Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 902680 if a specific rate applies, such as '$4.50 each + 65% ad valorem'?
When a duty rate is a combination of a specific duty and an ad valorem duty, both are calculated and then summed. For example, if an instrument classified under HS 902680 has a duty rate of '$4.50 each + 65% ad valorem', and you import 10 units with each unit valued at $100, the calculation would be: Specific Duty: 10 units * $4.50/unit = $45.00. Ad Valorem Duty: (10 units * $100/unit) * 65% = $1000 * 0.65 = $650.00. Total Duty: $45.00 + $650.00 = $695.00. It is crucial to correctly determine the value for customs purposes and the unit count for specific duties.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 902680?
Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS code 902680. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides duty-free treatment for originating goods. The Central America-Dominican Republic-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) may also offer preferential rates. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or those in the European Economic Area (EEA) can lead to reduced or zero duties. The United Kingdom's trade agreements post-Brexit, such as the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, also influence duty rates. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin for the specific agreement to claim preferential treatment.