HS Code for Prism
Prisms are classified under HS code 9001.90. This classification is found within Chapter 90, which covers optical, photographic, measuring, and precision instruments. Heading 9001 specifically includes optical fibers, polarizing material, and unmounted optical elements. Subheading 9001.90 is a residual category for optical elements such as lenses, prisms, and mirrors that are not mounted and are made of materials other than glass that has not been optically worked. To be classified here, a prism must be "optically worked," a technical term meaning it has undergone precise grinding and polishing to achieve specific optical properties and surface quality. Prisms are used to disperse light into its spectral components, reflect light, or split beams. The classification is guided by GRI 1 and the specific exclusion of mounted elements from this heading. If a prism is mounted in a frame or housing, it would move to heading 9002. The material of the prism can vary, including various types of glass, quartz, or plastic, provided the optical working has been performed. This code is essential for components used in cameras, binoculars, microscopes, and laser systems where the prism is imported as a standalone optical component.
Products Included
- Unmounted glass prisms
- Dispersion prisms for spectrometers
- Right-angle reflection prisms
- Beam splitter prisms (unmounted)
- Roof prisms and Dove prisms
- Optical quartz prisms
Common Misclassification
Prisms are often misclassified under HS code 9002.90, which is for *mounted* optical elements. The distinction is whether the prism is a bare component or fixed in a holder. Another error is using Chapter 70 (e.g., 7009) for glass mirrors or glass shapes; however, if the glass has been optically worked into a prism, Chapter 90 takes precedence. Prisms that are part of a complete instrument (like a periscope) are classified with that instrument.
FAQ
What is the HS code for an unmounted optical prism?
The HS code for an unmounted, optically worked prism is 9001.90.
What if the prism is made of plastic?
As long as the plastic has been optically worked to function as a prism, it remains under 9001.90, as the heading covers optical elements of any material except glass not optically worked.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Prism?
The HS code for Prism is 900190 (Optical elements; lenses n.e.c. in heading no. 9001, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements, unmounted, of any material (excluding elements of glass not optically worked)).
How do I classify Prism for customs?
Prism is classified under HS code 900190 — Optical elements; lenses n.e.c. in heading no. 9001, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements, unmounted, of any material (excluding elements of glass not optically worked). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Prism the same in all countries?
The base HS code 900190 for Prism is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.