HS 903149 Other
Quick Answer: Machines and appliances not elsewhere specified or included in heading 9031, for the inspection of materials by measuring or checking geometrical features, not elsewhere specified or included in heading 9031, imported under HS 903149 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free or 45% depending on the specific sub-classification. This residual category captures a variety of specialized measuring and checking instruments not covered by more specific HS codes within the 9031 heading. Importers should carefully review the specific subheadings within 903149 in each jurisdiction to determine the precise duty rate applicable to their goods. According to CustomTariffs data, the US has the most granular sub-classification, leading to a wider range of potential duty outcomes.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031490000 | — | — | — |
| 9031491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9031499000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031490000 | — | — | — |
| 9031491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9031499000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9031491000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9031497000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 903149 | — | — | — |
| 9031494000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9031499000 | 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 903149 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" measuring or checking instruments, appliances and machines, not elsewhere specified or included in heading 9031. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is for devices that perform optical measurement or checking functions but do not fit into more specific subheadings like those for profile projectors or optical measuring/checking instruments for flatness, straightness, or angle. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this residual nature, encompassing instruments used for inspecting surface irregularities, dimensions, or defects through optical means where a more precise classification is not possible.
What falls outside HS 903149?
The following products are excluded from HS 903149: instruments specifically designed for optical measurement or checking of flatness, straightness, or angle (classified under 903180), profile projectors (classified under 903120), and general measuring or checking instruments not primarily relying on optical principles, such as micrometers or calipers (classified under 9017 or 903180). Also excluded are instruments for testing the properties of materials (Chapter 9024) and optical instruments for surveying or astronomical purposes (Chapter 9015).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 903149?
A common error is misclassifying general-purpose optical inspection equipment that has a more specific function. For instance, a device solely for measuring the diameter of a wire using optical sensors might be incorrectly placed here if it could be more precisely classified under a subheading for dimensional measuring instruments. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3(a) and 3(b) for mixtures or composite goods, is crucial to ensure the most specific and appropriate classification is selected.
How should importers classify products under HS 903149?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 903149 involves a thorough examination of the product's primary function and mechanism. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and cross-reference with the WCO Explanatory Notes. If the instrument performs optical measurement or checking and does not fall under any more specific heading or subheading within Chapter 90, then 903149 becomes the applicable code.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 903149?
A portable optical surface roughness tester weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, HTSUS, for subheading 903149.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 903149?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 903149, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a "Free" duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico, requiring a self-certified origin statement. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or "Free" duty rates for eligible goods from developing countries, necessitating a GSP Form A. The EU's preferential trade agreements with certain countries may also provide duty reductions, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 903149, and how can I find the most accurate rate for my shipment?
HS code 903149, which covers 'Other' measuring or checking instruments, machines, and appliances not specified elsewhere in Chapter 90, often has varied duty rates depending on the importing country's tariff schedule. For example, the US applies a 0.00% duty rate (USITC Schedule 101), while the EU's TARIC system may list specific rates or require further subdivision for definitive classification. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates. To find the most accurate rate, consult the official customs tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC.gov, the EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff) using the specific product's details. Always verify the rate applicable to your country of import and any relevant trade agreements.
How is the duty for HS 903149 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 903149 depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country, which can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For instance, if a country applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty on an instrument classified under 903149 with an FOB (Free On Board) value of $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.035 (3.5% duty rate) = $350. If a specific duty rate of $5 per unit were applied, and you imported 100 units, the duty would be: 100 (units) × $5 (per unit) = $500. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem or specific) with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 903149?
When importing goods classified under HS 903149, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the specific nature of the 'other' measuring or checking instrument, additional certifications or permits related to safety, calibration standards, or technical specifications might be necessary. Importers should consult the customs regulations of the destination country for any specific endorsements or licenses required for these types of instruments.
Are there common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 903149?
Yes, various trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 903149. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might qualify for reduced or zero duty rates into the United States, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, imports into the European Union from countries with an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) or Association Agreement may benefit from preferential treatment. To determine eligibility, importers must ensure their goods meet the specific rules of origin outlined in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin, such as a EUR.1 certificate or origin declaration.
What are the key criteria used to classify an instrument under HS 903149 as 'Other' measuring or checking instruments?
HS code 903149 is a residual category used for measuring or checking instruments, machines, and appliances that are not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. The primary classification criteria are: 1) The item must be an instrument, machine, or appliance. 2) Its principal function must be for measuring or checking (e.g., dimensions, physical properties, electrical characteristics). 3) It must not be classifiable under any more specific HS code within Chapter 90 (e.g., optical instruments, electrical measuring instruments, instruments for surveying). If an instrument performs multiple functions, classification is typically based on its predominant function. Consulting the WCO's Explanatory Notes and the importing country's customs rulings is crucial for accurate classification.