HS Code for Stereo microscope

Stereo microscopes are classified under HS code 9011.10. Chapter 90 covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Heading 9011 specifically includes compound optical microscopes, including those for photomicrography, cinephotomicrography, or microprojection. The subheading 9011.10 is dedicated to stereoscopic microscopes. These instruments are distinguished by their ability to provide a three-dimensional view of the specimen by using two separate optical paths with two eyepieces and two objectives (or a common main objective). This classification is based on the optical configuration of the device rather than its specific application in biology, electronics, or forensics. To qualify for this code, the microscope must be a "compound" type, meaning it uses a system of lenses (objective and eyepiece) to magnify the image, as opposed to a simple magnifying glass.

Products Included

• Binocular stereo microscopes for biological research
• Trinocular stereo microscopes with camera ports
• Zoom stereo microscopes for industrial inspection
• Gemological stereo microscopes
• Dissecting microscopes with dual optical paths

Common Misclassification

Stereo microscopes are often confused with 9011.20, which is for other microscopes specifically designed for photomicrography. While a stereo microscope may have a camera, its primary identity is stereoscopic. They are also confused with 9012.10, which covers electron microscopes. Electron microscopes do not use optical lenses or light. Furthermore, simple magnifying loupes or head-worn magnifiers are classified under 9013.80, as they lack the compound lens system required for heading 9011.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Stereo microscope?

The HS code for stereoscopic compound optical microscopes is 9011.10.

Does this code include digital microscopes?

If the microscope uses a compound optical system to project an image onto a digital sensor, it remains under 9011. However, if it lacks an optical eyepiece and is purely a digital camera with a lens, it may be classified under 8525.81.