Product classification

HS code for Ultrasound machine: 9018.12

Medical, surgical instruments and appliances, ultrasonic scanning apparatus.

Classification of ultrasound machine under HS 9018.12

The classification of ultrasound machines under HS code 9018.12 is determined by their primary function as electro-diagnostic apparatus used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences. Heading 9018 encompasses a wide range of instruments used in professional medical practice. Subheading 9018.12 specifically isolates ultrasonic scanning apparatus, which utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body structures. This classification applies regardless of whether the machine is a large console unit or a handheld portable device, provided its primary purpose is diagnostic imaging through ultrasonic technology. The General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System dictate that products are classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since 9018.12 explicitly mentions ultrasonic scanning, it takes precedence over more general categories. These devices typically consist of a central processing unit, a display monitor, and various transducers or probes that emit and receive sound waves. The inclusion of these components as a functional unit reinforces their classification under this specific code.

Covers
  • Diagnostic ultrasound systems
  • Portable and handheld ultrasound scanners
  • Color Doppler ultrasound machines
  • Endocavitary ultrasound probes (when imported with the system)
  • 3D/4D ultrasonic imaging apparatus
Also under 9018.12
  • Philips Epiq Elite
  • GE Healthcare Voluson E10
  • Siemens Healthineers Acuson Sequoia
  • Canon Medical Systems Aplio i-series
  • Mindray Resona 7

Codes often confused with 9018.12

Common mistake. Ultrasound machines are frequently confused with other electro-diagnostic apparatus under heading 9018.19, which is a residual category for devices like MRI or EEG machines. They may also be misclassified under 9022.14 or 9022.19, which cover X-ray apparatus; however, ultrasound technology does not use ionizing radiation, making heading 9022 inappropriate. Additionally, standalone monitors used with these systems might be incorrectly classified under 8528 if not presented as part of the complete medical system.

9018.19Medical, surgical instruments and appliances; electro-diagnostic apparatus (including apparatus for functional exploratory examination or for checking physiological parameters), n.e.c. in item no. 9018.19022.14Apparatus based on the use of x-rays; including radiography or radiotherapy apparatus, for medical, surgical or veterinary uses, not dental uses, excluding computed tomography apparatus9022.19Apparatus based on the use of x-rays, including radiography or radiotherapy apparatus; for other than medical, surgical, dental or veterinary uses90.22Apparatus based on the use of x-rays or of alpha, beta, gamma or other ionising radiations, whether or not for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary uses, including radiography or radiotherapy apparatus, x-ray tubes and other x-ray generators, high tens85.28Monitors and projectors, not incorporating television reception apparatus; reception apparatus for television, whether or not incorporating radio-broadcast receivers or sound or video recording or reproducing apparatus

Top exporters and importers of HS 901812 (the code used for ultrasound machine), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901812 (the code used for ultrasound machine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 21% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 8.4% 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 901812, not only ultrasound machine.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $1.2B
  2. 2 South Korea $888M
  3. 3 United States $503M

World total: $5.7B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 China $484M
  2. 2 Germany $430M
  3. 3 Netherlands $397M

World total: $5.8B 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 ultrasound machine

Brazil splits HS 9018.12 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:

  • 9018.12.10Ultrasonic scanners with Doppler spectral analysis
  • 9018.12.90Other ultrasonic scanning apparatus

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about ultrasound machine

What is the HS code for Ultrasound machine?

The HS code for Ultrasound machine is 901812 (Medical, surgical instruments and appliances; ultrasonic scanning apparatus). The HS code for an ultrasound machine is 9018.12, which specifically covers ultrasonic scanning apparatus used in medical contexts.

How do I classify Ultrasound machine for customs?

Ultrasound machine is classified under HS code 901812 — Medical, surgical instruments and appliances; ultrasonic scanning apparatus. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Does this code include ultrasound probes imported separately?

Generally, probes imported separately are classified under 9018.12 as parts and accessories of ultrasonic scanning apparatus, provided they are identifiable as being solely or principally for use with such machines.

Which countries are the top exporters of ultrasound machine (HS 901812)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901812 (the code used for ultrasound machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.2B, 21% of world exports), South Korea ($888M) and the United States ($503M). World exports came to about $5.7B, 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 ultrasound machine (HS 901812)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 901812 (the code used for ultrasound machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($484M, 8.4% of world imports), Germany ($430M) and the Netherlands ($397M). World imports came to about $5.8B, 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 Ultrasound machine the same in all countries?

The base HS code 901812 for Ultrasound machine 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 ultrasound machine in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 901812 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for ultrasound machine depends on the product's details: 9018.12.10 (Ultrasonic scanners with Doppler spectral analysis), 9018.12.90 (Other ultrasonic scanning apparatus).