HS Code for Traffic light lenses

Traffic light lenses are classified under HS code 7014.00, which specifically covers signalling glassware and optical elements of glass (other than those of heading 70.15), not optically worked. The classification is determined by General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which prioritizes the heading text. Although these lenses are essential components of electrical signalling systems, Note 1(c) to Chapter 85 and Note 2(c) to Section XVII generally exclude glassware of Chapter 70 from those sections. Therefore, the material composition (glass) and the specific function (signalling) dictate that the item remains in Chapter 70. These lenses are typically produced through molding, pressing, or casting and do not undergo the precision grinding or polishing required to be classified as 'optically worked' under Chapter 90. The code 7014.00 ensures that the glass component is tracked based on its physical properties rather than the electrical apparatus it eventually populates.

Products Included

• Red, yellow, and green glass lenses for road traffic signals
• Glass covers for pedestrian 'Walk/Don't Walk' signs
• Railway signal glass lenses and roundels
• Glass lenses for airfield approach lighting
• Fresnel lenses made of glass for marine buoys

Common Misclassification

Traffic light lenses are frequently misclassified under HS code 8530.90 as parts of electrical signalling equipment. However, because they are made of glass and are not optically worked, Chapter 70 takes precedence. Another common error is using HS code 9001.90, which is reserved for optical elements that have been 'optically worked' (ground and polished to precise optical specifications). Most standard traffic lenses are molded and do not meet the criteria for Chapter 90.

FAQ

What is the HS code for traffic light lenses?

The correct HS code is 7014.00, which covers non-optically worked signalling glassware.

Does this code include plastic lenses?

No, plastic lenses for traffic lights are typically classified under Chapter 39 (specifically 3926.90) as articles of plastics, as HS code 7014.00 is strictly for glass.