HS 903141 Other optical instruments and appliances
Quick Answer: Optical measuring or checking instruments not specified elsewhere under HS 903141 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the United States imposes a 50% ad valorem duty on some items. This classification covers a broad range of optical devices used for precise measurement or inspection, excluding those with specific applications like microscopes or photographic apparatus. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity between major trading blocs. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90314100 | Free | — | — |
| 9031410060 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9031410020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 9031410040 | — | — | ["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 903141 cover?
This subheading covers other optical instruments and appliances not elsewhere specified in Chapter 90, which are designed for the measurement or inspection of surfaces, dimensions, or defects, utilizing optical principles. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes devices such as optical comparators, profile projectors, and surface roughness testers that employ light to analyze physical characteristics. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail, often including specific examples like optical flatness testers and optical comparators used in manufacturing quality control.
What falls outside HS 903141?
The following products are excluded from HS 903141: optical instruments and appliances specifically enumerated in other subheadings of Heading 9031, such as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) that are primarily mechanical, or microscopes (HS 9010 or 9011). Also excluded are general optical instruments like cameras (HS 9006), binoculars (HS 9005), and surveying instruments (HS 9015), even if they incorporate optical measurement capabilities. Devices primarily for projection of images, like projectors for cinema, are also classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 903141?
A common error is misclassifying instruments that have optical components but whose primary function is not optical measurement or inspection. For instance, a digital camera with integrated measurement software might be incorrectly entered under 903141 instead of its appropriate photographic equipment heading. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods, where the essential character is determined by the component that gives the item its essential character, is crucial. Overlooking the specific enumerations within Chapter 90 is also a frequent mistake.
How should importers classify products under HS 903141?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 903141 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers should first consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 9031. Then, they must review the specific subheadings within 9031 to determine if the product fits a more precise description. If it does not, and it is an optical instrument for measurement or inspection not elsewhere specified, 903141 is the likely classification. Cross-referencing with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is essential for definitive classification and duty determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 903141?
A Mitutoyo PJ-A3000 optical comparator, weighing 150 kg and declared at a customs value of $8,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $425.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($8,500 USD × 0.05 = $425.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS code 903141.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 903141?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 903141, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 903141, 'Other optical instruments and appliances'?
Import duty rates for HS code 903141 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 0.00% ad valorem for goods from certain countries or a higher rate for others. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty. The USITC's HTSUS and the EU's TARIC database are authoritative sources.
How is the import duty for HS code 903141 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on the specific duty rate applied. If the rate is 'ad valorem,' it's a percentage of the goods' value. For example, if an optical instrument classified under 903141 has an invoice value of $10,000 and the applicable ad valorem duty rate is 3.5%, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. If the rate is based on quantity (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be rate per unit \times number of units. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (value, quantity, or a combination) with the official tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 903141?
HS code 903141 covers 'Other optical instruments and appliances' not elsewhere specified in Chapter 90. This includes instruments and appliances that use optical principles for measurement, inspection, or analysis, but do not fit into more specific headings like 9031.40 (profile projectors) or 9031.80 (other measuring or checking appliances). Examples might include specialized optical comparators, interferometers, or optical surface roughness testers. The WCO's Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings provide detailed guidance on distinguishing this code from others.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 903141?
Standard import documentation is generally 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 optical instrument, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, technical specifications or datasheets to confirm classification, and potentially import licenses or permits if the instrument is subject to specific regulations (e.g., for dual-use technology). Consult the customs authority of the destination country for a definitive list.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU free trade agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 903141?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods originating from member countries. For instance, if an optical instrument classified under 903141 is manufactured in a country that has a free trade agreement with the importing nation (e.g., the USMCA for imports into the US, or an EU FTA for imports into the EU), it may qualify for a preferential duty rate, often 0.00% or Free. To claim these benefits, importers must typically provide a valid Certificate of Origin demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Always check the specific provisions of the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's tariff schedule.