HS 903039 Other, with a recording device
Quick Answer: Instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking electrical quantities, with a recording device, imported under HS 903039 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 40% (MFN rate). This classification specifically covers devices like oscilloscopes, multimeters, and signal generators that are equipped with a function to record the measured data. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential in the United States compared to the EU and UK. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific national tariff schedules for accurate duty assessment and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9030390000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9030390000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9030390100 | 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 903039 cover?
This subheading covers instruments and appliances for measuring or checking electrical quantities, specifically those that are "other" than oscilloscopes and cathode-ray oscillographs, and importantly, are equipped with a recording device. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes devices that can capture and store measured electrical data, such as multimeters with data logging capabilities or specialized electrical testing equipment that records parameters over time. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further refine this by focusing on the recording function as the primary differentiator within this category.
What falls outside HS 903039?
The following products are excluded from HS 903039: instruments for measuring electrical quantities that do not possess a recording device, such as basic analog multimeters or simple voltage testers without data logging. Also excluded are oscilloscopes and cathode-ray oscillographs, even if they have recording capabilities, as they are classified under HS 9030.20. Furthermore, devices primarily designed for non-electrical measurements, even if they incorporate electrical components, will be classified elsewhere, such as in Chapter 90 for optical or photographic instruments.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 903039?
A common error is misinterpreting the "recording device" requirement. Importers may mistakenly classify instruments that merely display readings or have a simple memory function for the last reading as having a recording device, when the WCO HS General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) require a more substantial capability to capture and store data over a period or in a sequence. Another mistake is classifying general-purpose test equipment with recording features under more specific headings if they are not primarily for electrical quantities.
How should importers classify products under HS 903039?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 903039 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the instrument measures or checks electrical quantities. Then, they must ascertain if it is an oscilloscope or cathode-ray oscillograph (which would be classified elsewhere). Crucially, they must verify the presence and function of a recording device capable of storing measured data. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 903039?
A Fluke 43B Power Quality Analyzer, weighing 2.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 9030.39. The calculation is: 10% of $1,500 USD = $150.00. This specific product, with its data logging capabilities, falls under the "other, with a recording device" category.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 903039?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 903039, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying 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, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP is typically required, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific agreement's rules of origin.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 903039, 'Other, with a recording device'?
Import duty rates for HS code 903039 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 differ. In the EU, the TARIC system shows a Common Customs Tariff rate of 4.70% for this code. The UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 0.00% for goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate.
What specific criteria distinguish goods classified under HS 903039 ('Other, with a recording device') from other instruments in heading 9030?
HS code 903039 applies to instruments and appliances for measuring or checking electrical quantities, not covered by other specific subheadings within 9030, provided they are equipped with a recording device. This means the instrument must have the primary function of measuring electrical parameters (e.g., voltage, current, resistance, frequency) and must also possess the capability to record these measurements, either internally or to an external medium. If the recording function is secondary or absent, or if the instrument measures non-electrical quantities, it would likely fall under a different HS code.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS 903039?
Standard import documentation for HS 903039 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the electrical measuring instrument with a recording device, additional documentation may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, technical specifications or datasheets to verify the instrument's capabilities and confirm its classification, and potentially safety or compliance certificates (e.g., CE marking for the EU) to demonstrate adherence to local standards. Importers should verify specific requirements with customs authorities.
How is the import duty calculated for HS 903039, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS 903039 depends on the duty rate structure applied by the importing country. If the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value), the calculation is straightforward. For instance, if an importing country applies a 4.70% ad valorem duty rate (as seen in the EU TARIC for some origins) and the declared customs value of the imported instruments is $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 USD (Customs Value) × 4.70% (Duty Rate) = $470 USD. If a specific duty (per unit) or a combination duty applies, the calculation would differ. Always confirm the duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs tariff.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 903039?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 903039 can be accessed through various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries party to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from reduced or zero duties on imports into the US, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, goods imported into the UK from countries with which the UK has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may be eligible for preferential rates, often 0.00% if the code is duty-free under the UK Global Tariff. The EU also has numerous FTAs with countries worldwide that could impact the duty rates under the TARIC system. To claim these benefits, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required.