Product classification
HS code for Profile projector: 9031.49
Optical instruments and appliances, for measuring or checking, n.e.c. in chapter 90.
Classification of profile projector under HS 9031.49
Profile projectors, also known as optical comparators, are classified under HS code 9031.49. This heading covers measuring or checking instruments, appliances, and machines not specified elsewhere in Chapter 90. Because profile projectors use optical components—such as lamps, lenses, and mirrors—to project a magnified silhouette of a part onto a screen for dimensional inspection, they are categorized as optical instruments. The classification 9031.49 is a residual category for optical measuring devices that do not fit into more specific headings like compound microscopes (9011) or surveying instruments (9015). These devices are essential in quality control for verifying the tolerances of manufactured components by comparing the projected image against a master template or using digital measuring scales integrated into the projector stage.
- Covers
- Optical profile projectors
- Shadowgraph projectors
- Digital optical comparators
- Benchtop profile projectors
- Floor-standing optical measuring projectors
- Also under 9031.49
- Keyence IM-series
- Mitutoyo Quick Vision
- Hexagon Metrology CMMs (with optical sensors)
- Alicona InfiniteFocus
Codes often confused with 9031.49
Common mistake. Profile projectors are sometimes misclassified under 9011 (microscopes) because they magnify objects. However, microscopes are for visual observation of minute details, whereas projectors are for measuring dimensions. They may also be confused with 9017, which covers drawing or mathematical calculating instruments, but the optical nature of the projector mandates classification in 9031.
Top exporters and importers of HS 903149 (the code used for profile projector), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 903149 (the code used for profile projector) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 23% 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 903149, not only profile projector.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $2.7B 20% of world exports
- 2 South Korea $2.2B 16% of world exports
- 3 China $2.1B 16% of world exports
World total: $13.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $2.8B 23% of world imports
- 2 United States $1.5B 13% of world imports
- 3 Germany $892M 7.5% of world imports
World total: $11.8B 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 profile projector
Brazil splits HS 9031.49 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 9031.49.10Laser measuring apparatus for cellulose fibres
- 9031.49.20Laser tyre thickness measuring apparatus
- 9031.49.90Other optical measuring instruments
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about profile projector
What is the HS code for Profile projector?
The HS code for Profile projector is 903149 (Optical instruments and appliances; for measuring or checking, n.e.c. in chapter 90). The HS code for a profile projector (optical comparator) is 9031.49.
How do I classify Profile projector for customs?
Profile projector is classified under HS code 903149 — Optical instruments and appliances; for measuring or checking, n.e.c. in chapter 90. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is a profile projector considered a microscope for customs?
No, while it uses magnification, it is classified as a measuring and checking instrument under 9031 rather than a microscope under 9011.
Which countries are the top exporters of profile projector (HS 903149)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 903149 (the code used for profile projector) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($2.7B, 20% of world exports), South Korea ($2.2B) and China ($2.1B). World exports came to about $13.4B, 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 profile projector (HS 903149)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 903149 (the code used for profile projector) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.8B, 23% of world imports), the United States ($1.5B) and Germany ($892M). World imports came to about $11.8B, 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 Profile projector the same in all countries?
The base HS code 903149 for Profile projector 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 profile projector in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 903149 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for profile projector depends on the product's details: 9031.49.10 (Laser measuring apparatus for cellulose fibres), 9031.49.20 (Laser tyre thickness measuring apparatus), 9031.49.90 (Other optical measuring instruments).