Product classification
HS code for Calipers: 9017.30
Mathematical equipment, micrometers, callipers and gauges.
Classification of calipers under HS 9017.30
Calipers are precision measuring instruments classified under HS code 9017.30. This heading encompasses mathematical calculating instruments, drafting machines, and handheld tools for measuring length, thickness, or depth. Specifically, 9017.30 covers micrometers, calipers, and gauges. The classification is based on the tool's primary function: providing accurate linear measurements through mechanical, optical, or electronic means. Whether the caliper is a simple manual vernier type, a dial caliper, or a sophisticated digital model with data output capabilities, it remains within this heading because its fundamental purpose is the measurement of physical dimensions. These tools are essential in machining, engineering, and woodworking. The HS system groups them with other high-precision manual measuring devices to distinguish them from general-purpose hand tools or automated industrial sensors. The classification remains consistent regardless of the material of construction (e.g., stainless steel or carbon fiber) as long as the device is designed for precision measurement.
- Covers
- Vernier calipers
- Digital electronic calipers
- Dial calipers
- Inside and outside calipers
- Depth calipers and gauges
- Micrometer calipers
- Hermaphrodite calipers
- Also under 9017.30
- Mitutoyo Digital Caliper
- Starrett Micrometer
- Fowler Electronic Depth Gauge
- Tesa Brown & Sharpe Bore Gauge
- Sylvac Digital Indicator
Codes often confused with 9017.30
Common mistake. Calipers are frequently misclassified under HS code 8205.59, which covers general hand tools not elsewhere specified. However, because calipers are precision measuring instruments, Chapter 90 takes precedence over Chapter 82. They are also sometimes confused with HS code 9031.80, which covers other measuring or checking instruments; however, 9017.30 is the more specific code for handheld calipers and micrometers.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901730 (the code used for calipers), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901730 (the code used for calipers) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 26% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 13% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 901730, not only calipers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $184M 26% of world exports
- 2 Japan $149M 21% of world exports
- 3 United States $76M 11% of world exports
World total: $714M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $95M 13% of world imports
- 2 Germany $54M 7.4% of world imports
- 3 Netherlands $43M 5.8% of world imports
World total: $737M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for calipers
Brazil splits HS 9017.30 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 9017.30.10Micrometers
- 9017.30.20Callipers
- 9017.30.90Gauges and similar measuring instruments
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about calipers
What is the HS code for Calipers?
The HS code for Calipers is 901730 (Mathematical equipment; micrometers, callipers and gauges). The HS code for calipers, including digital, dial, and vernier types, is 9017.30.
How do I classify Calipers for customs?
Calipers is classified under HS code 901730 — Mathematical equipment; micrometers, callipers and gauges. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does a digital display change the HS code for calipers?
No, both manual and digital calipers are classified under 9017.30 as they perform the same fundamental measuring function.
Which countries are the top exporters of calipers (HS 901730)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901730 (the code used for calipers) in UN Comtrade data were China ($184M, 26% of world exports), Japan ($149M) and the United States ($76M). World exports came to about $714M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of calipers (HS 901730)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901730 (the code used for calipers) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($95M, 13% of world imports), Germany ($54M) and the Netherlands ($43M). World imports came to about $737M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Calipers the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901730 for Calipers is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for calipers in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 901730 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for calipers depends on the product's details: 9017.30.10 (Micrometers), 9017.30.20 (Callipers), 9017.30.90 (Gauges and similar measuring instruments).