HS 902781 Other instruments and apparatus
Quick Answer: Instruments and apparatus imported under HS 902781 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a range of rates, including Free and 40% ad valorem, depending on the specific item. This classification covers a broad category of analytical, measuring, or controlling instruments and apparatus not specifically listed elsewhere in Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. Examples include certain types of gas detectors, pH meters, and other specialized scientific equipment. Importers should carefully verify the specific subheadings and applicable duty rates for their particular product, as the US tariff can vary significantly. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for precise classification and awareness of jurisdictional differences.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9027810000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9027810000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9027810000 | 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 902781 cover?
This subheading covers other instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis, not specified elsewhere in Heading 9027. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes devices designed for measuring or detecting specific physical properties (e.g., viscosity, density, conductivity) or chemical compositions, which are not explicitly listed under more specific subheadings within 9027, such as those for chromatography, spectroscopy, or particle counters. Examples include viscometers, densitometers, and refractometers used in laboratories and industrial settings.
What falls outside HS 902781?
The following products are excluded from HS 902781: instruments for measuring electrical quantities (classified in Heading 9030), instruments for measuring length, distance, or other geometric properties (Heading 9017), instruments for testing the properties of mechanical or physical materials (Heading 9024), and medical or veterinary instruments (Chapter 9018). For instance, a simple thermometer for general use is not classified here, nor are devices solely for measuring temperature if their primary function isn't analysis. Similarly, electrical multimeters or oscilloscopes are classified under 9030, not 902781.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 902781?
A common error is misclassifying instruments that perform analytical functions but are more specifically covered by other headings or subheadings. For example, a device that primarily measures and displays temperature, even if used in a laboratory, might be classified elsewhere if its analytical capability is secondary or if it falls under a more specific heading like 9025 for hydrometers or thermometers. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 3, is crucial to ensure the correct classification based on the essential character of the good.
How should importers classify products under HS 902781?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 902781 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 UK Trade Tariff. They should then compare the product's specific function and characteristics against the descriptions provided in Heading 9027 and its subheadings, including 902781. If the instrument performs physical or chemical analysis and is not specifically enumerated elsewhere, it likely falls under this residual category. Reviewing the Explanatory Notes from the WCO can provide further clarification on the scope of this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 902781?
A digital viscometer, model DV1M, declared at a customs value of $500 USD and weighing 2 kg, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 902781. If the product were subject to a specific duty, the calculation would involve the quantity or weight.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 902781?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 902781, 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) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin, depending on the specific agreement and the importing country's regulations, such as the USMCA certification template.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 902781?
Import duty rates for HS code 902781, 'Other instruments and apparatus', vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a duty rate of Free for most favored nation (MFN) imports. In contrast, the UK Trade Tariff shows a duty rate of 4.7% ad valorem for goods from non-EU countries. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate. For instance, the EU TARIC database would provide the definitive rate for imports into the European Union.
How is the duty for HS code 902781 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 902781 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: Duty Amount = (Customs Value of Goods × Duty Rate). For example, if a shipment of 'other instruments and apparatus' valued at $10,000 has an ad valorem duty rate of 4.7% (as seen in some UK tariffs), the duty would be $10,000 × 0.047 = $470. If a specific duty applies, it would be Duty Amount = Quantity × Rate per Unit.
What are the key classification criteria for instruments and apparatus under HS code 902781?
HS code 902781 covers 'Other instruments and apparatus' that are not specifically listed in preceding headings of Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (e.g., spectrometers, chromatographs, pH meters, viscometers) that do not fall under more specific subheadings like 9027.10 (Gas or smoke analysis apparatus) or 9027.30 (Spectrometers, spectrophotometers and spectrographs). The classification hinges on the primary function of the instrument and whether it performs a physical or chemical analysis. WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 90 are essential for precise classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 902781?
When importing goods under HS code 902781, standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the specific nature of the 'instrument or apparatus,' additional documentation might be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, technical specifications or datasheets to verify the instrument's function, and potentially import licenses or permits if the apparatus is subject to specific regulations (e.g., for scientific research, medical use, or environmental monitoring). Always verify with the importing country's customs authority.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 902781?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 902781. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), many goods, including certain instruments and apparatus, may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00% or Free, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under 902781. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must possess a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet all stipulated origin criteria. Consulting the specific trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations is vital.