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90

Tariff Chapter 90

Frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles or the like, and parts thereof

What does heading 9003 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 9003 covers frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles and parts thereof. 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 9003 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 9003 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 9003 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 9003

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 9003 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 9003 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 9003 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 9003 - key considerations

Heading 9003 covers frames and mountings for spectacles and similar articles, and their parts. Key: frame without lenses - metal, plastic, titanium. Includes temples, nose pads, and spectacle hinges. Common mistake: complete spectacles with corrective lenses are 9004; sunglasses are 9004.

Frequently asked questions

What are the EU duty rates for spectacle frames (heading 9003)?
EU duty rates for spectacle frames under heading 9003 range from 0% to 2.2%. Both plastic and metal frames attract rates up to 2.2%. Parts for frames, such as hinges and nose pads, also fall within this rate range. These are relatively low duty rates compared to other consumer product categories. Preferential trade agreements may further reduce the customs burden. The exact CN subheading should be verified considering the frame material and whether the item is a complete frame or a part thereof. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What regulatory requirements apply to importing spectacle frames into the EU?
Importing spectacle frames requires compliance with Regulation (EU) 2017/745 on medical devices if frames are intended for corrective spectacles. A declaration of conformity with EN ISO 12870 for spectacle frames is required. Frames must meet REACH requirements regarding nickel content and other sensitising substances in skin-contact components. Customs clearance requires a commercial invoice, transport document, certificate of origin, and conformity documentation. This applies to goods classified under heading 9003 of the Combined Nomenclature. 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 spectacle frames?
Frame classification depends on material - plastic, metal, and combination frames have different CN subheadings. Imports from Asian countries (China, also Italy and Japan as major producers) dominate the market. Ensure REACH compliance for nickel content in skin-contact elements. Frames for corrective spectacles are subject to medical device regulations. Product marking must include material and manufacturer information. Consider brand protection and intellectual property verification for designer frames. This applies to goods classified under heading 9003 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.