HS Code for Electrophoresis system

An electrophoresis system is classified under HS code 9027.20. This classification falls within Chapter 90, which covers precision instruments for medical, surgical, and scientific use. Heading 9027 specifically includes instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis, such as polarimeters, spectrometers, and chromatographs. Electrophoresis is a fundamental laboratory technique used to separate molecules based on their size and electrical charge by applying an electric field to a gel or liquid medium. Because the system is designed for the analysis of substances (such as DNA, RNA, or proteins), it is explicitly named in subheading 9027.20 alongside chromatographs. This classification covers the entire apparatus, including the electrophoresis chamber, the power supply (if presented as a system), and any integrated detection systems used to visualize the results.

Products Included

• Gel electrophoresis tanks and chambers
• Capillary electrophoresis (CE) systems
• Power supplies specifically for electrophoresis
• Vertical and horizontal gel runners
• Automated DNA sequencers using electrophoresis principles

Common Misclassification

Electrophoresis systems are sometimes misclassified under HS code 8419.89, which covers general laboratory equipment. However, because electrophoresis is a specific analytical technique, the more specific heading 9027 takes precedence according to GRI 3(a). They may also be confused with 9018.90 (medical instruments), but 9027.20 is the correct code for analytical laboratory equipment used for research or diagnostic testing of chemical properties.

FAQ

What is the HS code for an electrophoresis system?

The specific HS code for electrophoresis instruments and systems is 9027.20.

Are the chemicals used in electrophoresis classified here?

No, reagents and gels used in the process are classified according to their chemical composition, typically in Chapter 38 (e.g., 3822 for diagnostic or laboratory reagents).