HS 903300 Light-emitting diode (LED) backlight modules, which are lighting sources that consist of one or more LEDs, and one or more connectors and are mounted on a printed circuit or other similar substrate, and other passive components, whether or not combined with optical components or protective diodes, and used as backlight illumination for liquid crystal displays (LCDs)
Quick Answer: LED backlight modules imported under HS 903300 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 40% ad valorem. This classification covers lighting assemblies comprising LEDs, connectors, and passive components on a substrate, designed for illuminating liquid crystal displays. These modules may also include optical components or protective diodes. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying tariff rates across major markets, as detailed by CustomTariffs, which can significantly impact landed costs. Careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and leverage preferential trade agreements where applicable.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9033001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9033009000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9033001000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 9033009000 | 3.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 903300 | — | — | — |
| 9033002000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9033003000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9033009000 | 4.4% | Free (19 programs) | ["kg"] |
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 9033.00?
Imports of Light-emitting diode (LED) backlight modules, which are lighting sources that consist of one or more LEDs, and one or more connectors and are mounted on a printed circuit or other similar substrate, and other passive components, whether or not combined with optical components or protective diodes, and used as backlight illumination for liquid crystal displays (LCDs) 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 17 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 903300 cover?
This subheading covers light-emitting diode (LED) backlight modules specifically designed for illuminating liquid crystal displays (LCDs). According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these modules consist of one or more LEDs, connectors, and are mounted on a substrate with other passive components, potentially including optical elements or protective diodes. For example, LED strips used as the sole illumination source for a laptop screen fall under this classification, as confirmed by definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database.
What falls outside HS 903300?
The following products are excluded from HS 903300: general-purpose LED lighting fixtures not intended for LCD backlighting, such as desk lamps or ceiling lights (typically classified under Chapter 94), and individual LEDs or LED components that are not assembled into a module with a substrate and connectors for backlighting purposes (often classified under Chapter 85). Furthermore, complete display units incorporating the LCD panel and backlight module are classified separately, usually under Chapter 85 or 90 depending on the primary function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 903300?
A common error is misclassifying LED modules that are not exclusively intended for LCD backlighting. For instance, LED strips used for decorative lighting or general illumination, even if they contain similar components, would not fall under 903300. This is governed by General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Incorrectly classifying a general lighting LED strip as a backlight module could lead to duty discrepancies.
How should importers classify products under HS 903300?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 903300 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and construction. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the LED module is specifically designed and marketed as a backlight for LCDs. Reviewing product specifications, technical datasheets, and marketing materials is crucial. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with the WCO Explanatory Notes will ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 903300?
A shipment of 1,000 units of "Laptop LCD LED Backlight Strips" weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 9033.00.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 903300?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 903300, 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 EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers a Free duty rate for qualifying originating products. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 903300 (LED backlight modules for LCDs)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 903300 is 3.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S. may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the specific trade agreement and verify the country of origin to determine the applicable duty rate. Importers should also check the EU TARIC or UK Trade Tariff for rates applicable in those regions, which often differ.
How is the import duty for HS code 903300 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 903300 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.70% and the declared value of a shipment of LED backlight modules is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.0370 (duty rate) = $370.00 USD. If the goods qualify for preferential treatment under an FTA, the duty rate could be 0.00%, resulting in no duty payable.
What are the key classification criteria for classifying goods under HS code 903300?
To be classified under HS code 903300, the goods must meet the definition of 'Light-emitting diode (LED) backlight modules, which are lighting sources that consist of one or more LEDs, and one or more connectors and are mounted on a printed circuit or other similar substrate, and other passive components, whether or not combined with optical components or protective diodes, and used as backlight illumination for liquid crystal displays (LCDs)'. Key criteria include: 1. The presence of one or more LEDs as the primary light source. 2. Mounting on a printed circuit or similar substrate. 3. Inclusion of connectors and other passive components. 4. The specific intended use as backlight illumination for LCDs. Goods that are solely LED lamps without the substrate and connectors, or are not specifically designed for LCD backlighting, may fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing LED backlight modules under HS code 903300?
Standard import documentation for HS code 903300 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and whether preferential duty rates are claimed, additional documents may be necessary. For FTA claims, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter is usually required, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin for that specific trade agreement. Customs brokers should verify the specific requirements with the importing country's customs authority, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the relevant authority within the EU or UK.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 903300 imports?
Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS code 903300. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and other Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may provide duty-free entry if the goods meet the applicable rules of origin. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or specific bilateral agreements could offer reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the UK has numerous trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers must confirm the specific origin of their goods and consult the text of the relevant trade agreement to ascertain eligibility for preferential treatment. The WCO Harmonized System nomenclature itself does not dictate trade agreements, but the classification under 903300 is the first step in determining eligibility.