HS 903120 Test benches
Quick Answer: Test benches imported under HS 903120 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.80%, and the US at 1.7% (MFN), with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification covers specialized equipment designed for testing the performance, functionality, or characteristics of other machinery, components, or systems. These are not general-purpose tools but rather sophisticated apparatus for specific diagnostic or calibration purposes. Importers should be aware of potential specific import licensing or certification requirements depending on the nature of the test bench and its intended application. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031200000 | 2.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031200000 | 1.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 9031.20?
Imports of Test benches may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 903120 cover?
This subheading covers test benches, which are specialized apparatus designed for testing the performance, functionality, or calibration of other machines, engines, or components. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these benches are equipped with instruments and devices to measure and record various parameters, such as speed, torque, temperature, or pressure, facilitating precise diagnostics and quality control. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, encompassing equipment used in automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries for rigorous testing procedures.
What falls outside HS 903120?
The following products are excluded from HS 903120: general-purpose measuring or checking instruments (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes) not integrated into a dedicated testing apparatus, machinery for specific industrial processes that are not primarily for testing (e.g., assembly machines), and simple jigs or fixtures that do not incorporate measuring or recording devices. For instance, a standalone dynamometer used for general measurement would not fall under this code, nor would a basic calibration stand without integrated testing capabilities, which are typically classified under other headings within Chapter 90 or elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 903120?
A common error is misclassifying complex machinery that includes testing functions but is primarily designed for a different purpose, such as production or assembly. According to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, classification should be based on the essential character of the good. Importers may incorrectly assign test benches to codes for general machinery or specific testing instruments if the primary function of the apparatus is not clearly identified as a "test bench" for evaluating other equipment's performance.
How should importers classify products under HS 903120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 903120 involves a thorough examination of the product's design, intended use, and the presence of integrated measuring and recording instruments. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. A detailed product description, technical specifications, and operational manuals are crucial to confirm that the apparatus is specifically designed and equipped for testing other machinery or components.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 903120?
A specific engine dynamometer test bench, weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $150,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $10,500. This is calculated using the MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 903120. The calculation is: 7.0% of $150,000 = $10,500. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not covered by preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 903120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 903120, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from 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 agreement and importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 903120, 'Test benches'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 903120, 'Test benches', can vary by country. For example, the U.S. tariff rate is 2.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may show rates around 2.80% ad valorem, while the UK Trade Tariff might list a rate of 1.7% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for a test bench calculated under HS code 903120?
Import duty is typically calculated based on the ad valorem rate applied to the customs value of the goods. For instance, if a test bench has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.02 = $200. Some countries may also have specific duties based on quantity, but for HS 903120, ad valorem is most common. Always verify the basis of duty calculation with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 903120 'Test benches'?
HS code 903120 covers 'Test benches'. This classification generally applies to apparatus designed to test the performance, characteristics, or defects of other machinery, engines, motors, instruments, or other products. Key criteria include the apparatus's specific function of testing and its ability to simulate operating conditions or measure specific parameters of the item being tested. It is not for general-purpose measuring instruments but for specialized benches that subject items to functional tests.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 903120?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 903120. For example, under the U.S. tariff schedule, preferential rates are often available for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others, often listed as 'Free' or with significantly reduced rates. The EU's TARIC and the UK Trade Tariff also detail preferential rates under agreements with various partner countries. Importers must verify eligibility and provide the necessary proof of origin to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required for importing test benches under HS code 903120?
When importing test benches under HS code 903120, standard import documentation is usually required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the test bench, additional documentation might be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential treatment), technical specifications or datasheets to confirm classification, and potentially safety or compliance certificates. Consulting the importing country's customs authority or a customs broker is recommended to ensure all requirements are met.