Product classification
HS code for Gauges: 9017.30
Mathematical equipment, micrometers, callipers and gauges.
Classification of gauges under HS 9017.30
Gauges used for dimensional measurement are classified under HS code 9017.30. This heading is part of Chapter 90, which covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Specifically, heading 9017 includes drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments and instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand. Subheading 9017.30 explicitly covers micrometers, calipers, and gauges. These instruments are characterized by their use in determining linear dimensions, such as thickness, diameter, or depth. The classification is based on the physical principle of the device; it must be a mechanical or electronic tool used for measuring physical dimensions rather than measuring pressure, flow, or other physical properties of liquids or gases.
- Covers
- Feeler gauges for measuring gap widths
- Thread pitch gauges for identifying screw threads
- Bore gauges for internal diameter measurement
- Depth gauges for measuring hole depths
- Digital and analog dial gauges
- 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. Gauges are frequently misclassified under HS code 9026.20, which is for instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking pressure. While both are called "gauges," 9017.30 is for dimensional measurement, while 9026 is for fluid variables. Another common error is using 9031.80, which is a "basket" category for other measuring or checking instruments not specified elsewhere. Since gauges are specifically named in 9017.30, that code must be used. Simple rulers or tape measures are also excluded, falling under 9017.80.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901730 (the code used for gauges), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901730 (the code used for gauges) 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 gauges.
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 gauges
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 gauges
What is the HS code for Gauges?
The HS code for Gauges is 901730 (Mathematical equipment; micrometers, callipers and gauges). The HS code for dimensional measuring gauges, such as feeler or thread gauges, is 9017.30.
How do I classify Gauges for customs?
Gauges is classified under HS code 901730 — Mathematical equipment; micrometers, callipers and gauges. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are digital calipers included in this HS code?
Yes, both manual and digital calipers are classified under 9017.30 as they serve the same primary function of dimensional measurement.
Which countries are the top exporters of gauges (HS 901730)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901730 (the code used for gauges) 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 gauges (HS 901730)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901730 (the code used for gauges) 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 Gauges the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901730 for Gauges 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 gauges in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 901730 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for gauges depends on the product's details: 9017.30.10 (Micrometers), 9017.30.20 (Callipers), 9017.30.90 (Gauges and similar measuring instruments).