Products
Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Medical instruments

9018.90 Medical, surgical or dental instruments and appliances; n.e.c. in heading no. 9018
Electronics & Electrical Equipment
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Medical instruments and appliances not elsewhere specified are classified under HS code 9018.90. Heading 9018 is one of the broadest categories in the Harmonized System, covering a wide range of tools used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences. Subheading 9018.90 acts as the "other" category for instruments that do not fall into specific subheadings like electro-diagnostic apparatus (9018.11-19), ultra-violet/infra-red ray apparatus (9018.20), or syringes and needles (9018.31-39). Classification under 9018.90 requires that the instrument be used directly in the professional practice of medicine. These can range from simple handheld manual tools to complex mechanical devices used in surgery. The classification is based on GRI 1 and 6, and it is important to distinguish these professional tools from general-purpose tools or furniture used in a medical environment.

Products Included

  • Surgical forceps, scalpels, and scissors
  • Endoscopic instruments
  • Stethoscopes
  • Blood pressure monitors (sphygmomanometers)
  • Surgical retractors and clamps
  • Dialysis apparatus

Common Misclassification

A frequent error is classifying medical furniture, such as operating tables or hospital beds, under this code; these belong in 9402. Another common mistake is using 9018.90 for diagnostic reagents or laboratory equipment, which often fall under Chapter 38 or heading 8419/8421. Electronic diagnostic equipment like ECG machines must be classified under 9018.11, not 9018.90. Additionally, if an instrument is specifically for dental use, it should be classified under 9018.41 or 9018.49. It is vital to check if a more specific subheading exists before defaulting to 9018.90.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Medical instruments?

The general HS code for miscellaneous medical and surgical instruments is 9018.90.

Are household thermometers classified here?

No, thermometers are classified under heading 9025, as they are considered measuring instruments rather than specific medical appliances of heading 9018.

Industry

Electronics & Electrical Equipment
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Medical instruments?

The HS code for Medical instruments is 901890 (Medical, surgical or dental instruments and appliances; n.e.c. in heading no. 9018).

How do I classify Medical instruments for customs?

Medical instruments is classified under HS code 901890 — Medical, surgical or dental instruments and appliances; n.e.c. in heading no. 9018. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Medical instruments the same in all countries?

The base HS code 901890 for Medical instruments is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.