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90
Tariff Chapter 90
Measuring or checking instruments, appliances and machines, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; profile projectors
What does heading 9031 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 9031 covers measuring or checking instruments not elsewhere specified. These products are used in science, industry, medicine and navigation. Chapter 90 covers some of the most technologically advanced products in international trade. EU duty rates typically range from 0% to 4.2% depending on the instrument type. Many scientific and measuring instruments benefit from 0% under the ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and compliance with relevant EU directives are required. Heading 9031 is part of Chapter 90 (optical, medical, measuring and musical instruments) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 9031 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 9031 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 9031
EU duty rates typically range from 0% to 4.2% depending on the instrument type. Many scientific and measuring instruments benefit from 0% under the ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and compliance with relevant EU directives are required. Duty rates range from 0% to 4.2% depending on instrument type. Many scientific instruments benefit from 0% under ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and relevant directive compliance are required. Ensure proper transport conditions when importing precision instruments. When importing goods under heading 9031 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 9031 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system). Goods under heading 9031 are subject to CE, MDR (medical devices) and MID (measuring instruments) compliance. Required documentation includes: CE certificates, MDR/IVDR conformity declarations, measuring instrument calibration. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.
Classification of goods under heading 9031 — key considerations
Heading 9031 covers measuring/checking instruments, appliances, and machines not elsewhere specified: coordinate measuring machines (CMM), profile projectors, interferometers. Key: residual heading for measuring instruments. Includes laser rangefinders (non-surveying) and quality control machines. Common mistake: surveying rangefinders are 9015.
Frequently asked questions
What is the EU duty rate for measuring or checking instruments under heading 9031?
Measuring or checking instruments not elsewhere specified under heading 9031 are subject to duty rates from 0% to 2.8% in the EU. Heading 9031 is a residual heading covering measuring and checking machines not classified elsewhere. Many advanced instruments benefit from 0% duty under ITA or duty suspensions. This includes coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), profilometers, interferometers and vision systems. The precise CN subheading depends on the type and intended use of the instrument. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents are required for importing measuring instruments under heading 9031?
Importing measuring and checking instruments under heading 9031 requires CE marking and compliance with LVD and EMC directives for electronic equipment. Instruments with laser components must meet laser safety standards EN 60825. Equipment for explosive atmospheres requires ATEX certification. Measuring machines falling under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC require additional safety documentation. An EU Declaration of Conformity, technical documentation and standard customs documents are required. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing measuring equipment under heading 9031?
Importing measuring and checking equipment under heading 9031 requires particular attention due to the residual nature of this heading — correct tariff classification is critical. Classification to more specific headings (9025-9030, 9032) must be excluded before applying 9031. Coordinate measuring machines require anti-vibration foundations and temperature-controlled rooms. Transport of heavy measuring machines requires specialised logistics. Installation and calibration must be performed by authorised service engineers. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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