HS Code for Overhead projector

Overhead projectors are classified under HS code 9008.50. This classification falls within Chapter 90, which covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Heading 9008 specifically includes image projectors (other than cinematographic) and photographic enlargers and reducers. The subheading 9008.50 is a broad category for image projectors that do not use moving film (cinematography). An overhead projector functions by shining light through a transparent slide or film, which is then focused by a lens onto a screen. Despite the rise of digital technology, these traditional optical devices remain under 9008 because their primary function is the optical projection of a still image from a physical transparency.

Products Included

• Transparency overhead projectors
• Classroom overhead projectors
• Opaque projectors (episcopes)
• Slide projectors
• Epidiascopes

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification for overhead projectors is HS code 8528.62 or 8528.69. These codes are reserved for modern digital projectors (data projectors) that connect to computers or video sources. While both devices project images, 9008.50 is for purely optical devices using transparencies, whereas 8528 is for electronic/video apparatus. Another error is 9007.20, which is reserved for cinematographic (moving picture) projectors. It is vital to distinguish between the optical projection of a static transparency and the electronic projection of a digital signal.

FAQ

What is the HS code for overhead projector?

The HS code for a traditional optical overhead projector is 9008.50.

Is a digital projector classified under 9008.50?

No, digital or video projectors are classified under heading 8528, as they are considered electrical apparatus for the reception and display of video signals.