Heading 9003

Frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles or the like, and parts thereof

3 declarable lines

Heading 9003 covers frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles or similar eyewear, plus parts for those frames and mountings. It is split into plastic frames and mountings, frames and mountings of other materials, and parts.

Products in this heading

Plastic spectacle frames
Metal eyeglass frames
Goggle frames
Spectacle temple arms
Nose pads for spectacle frames
Frame hinges for spectacles

How to choose the right subheading

Material decides the frame subheading: plastics go to 9003.11 and other materials go to 9003.19.
Whether the item is a frame or mounting versus a part decides between the frame subheadings and 9003.90.
Finished spectacles or goggles with lenses are outside heading 9003 and go to heading 9004.
Unmounted lenses go to heading 9001, while mounted instrument lenses go to heading 9002.
Use the heading only for frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles or similar eyewear, not for other optical instrument mountings.

Often confused with

Finished prescription eyeglasses
Complete spectacles are classified in heading 9004, not as frames.
Heading 9004
Finished sunglasses
Sunglasses are finished eyewear of heading 9004.
Heading 9004
Contact lenses
Contact lenses are unmounted optical elements of heading 9001.
Heading 9001
Mounted lenses for instruments
Mounted optical elements for instruments are heading 9002.
Heading 9002

Frequently asked questions

What is the HTS code for plastic spectacle frames?

Plastic frames and mountings for spectacles or goggles are classified under 9003.11.00.00, with a general (MFN) rate of 2.5%.

What is the duty on metal spectacle frames?

Frames and mountings of other materials, such as metal, are classified under 9003.19.00.00, with a general (MFN) rate of Free.

How do I classify replacement temple arms for spectacle frames?

Replacement parts for frames and mountings, such as temple arms or nose pads, are classified under 9003.90.00.00, with a general (MFN) rate of 2.5%.

Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.