💾 Data Updated: Latest version • Last updated: December 09, 2025

9015.80.20.00 - Optical instruments and appliances 🖩

Details

FieldValue
Unit of QuantityNo.
General Rate of Duty (Column 1 - General)Free
Special Rate of Duty (Column 1 - Special)N/A
Column 2 Rate of Duty45%
Quota QuantityN/A
Additional DutiesN/A
About Duty Rates: Rates are divided into Column 1 and Column 2. Column 1 is subdivided into General (normal trade relations rates for all countries not eligible for special programs) and Special (preferential rates for countries with free trade agreements or preference programs). Column 2 rates apply to products from Cuba, North Korea, Belarus, and Russia. When no special rate exists for a classification, General rates apply.

Overview

This HTS subcategory, 9015.80.20.00, specifically covers "Optical instruments and appliances" that fall within the broader scope of surveying, hydrographic, oceanographic, hydrological, meteorological, or geophysical instruments and apparatus. It captures devices that utilize optical principles for measurement, observation, or data collection in these specialized scientific and technical fields. Examples include optical levels, optical theodolites, optical tacheometers, and other similar instruments where the primary function relies on light manipulation and optical components for precise readings.

While the parent category encompasses a wide range of instruments, this subcategory zeroes in on those that employ optical mechanisms. It distinguishes itself from non-optical instruments within the same broader chapter (e.g., purely electronic surveying equipment or mechanical compasses) by the fundamental reliance on light, lenses, prisms, or other optical elements for their operation and the type of data they generate. The focus is on the optical nature of the measurement or observation process.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS classification, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the emphasis for classification purposes under 9015.80.20.00 is on accurately identifying instruments designed for the specified scientific applications that operate through optical means. If an instrument utilizes optical components as a secondary feature for a non-optical primary function, it would likely be classified elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

›What is HTS code 9015.80.20.00?
HTS code 9015.80.20.00 covers Optical instruments and appliances under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It falls under Chapter 90: Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof.
›What products are classified under 9015.80.20.00?
This classification covers Optical instruments and appliances. It is a subcategory of Other instruments and appliances: (9015.80).
›What is the import duty rate for 9015.80.20.00?
The general rate of duty for HTS 9015.80.20.00 is Free. The Column 2 rate is 45%.
›What unit of quantity is used for 9015.80.20.00?
Imports under HTS 9015.80.20.00 are measured in No..

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