Sourcing HPLC systems from China

HPLC systems and 0% duty

Heading 9027 covers physical and chemical analysis instruments. The chromatograph line, 9027 20 00 00, is the starting point for a complete high-performance liquid chromatography system. The table also includes separately imported analytical instruments and parts relevant to laboratory configurations; these are not interchangeable codes for a complete HPLC system.

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 17 October 2026, all selected lines carried 0% duty for goods from China. The supplied facts list no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspensions or import controls on these lines. Import VAT is separate from customs duty.

Confirm the commodity code against the shipment configuration, especially for separately supplied detectors and replacement modules. For the wider heading, see UV-visible spectrophotometers.

Specify the separation method and system configuration

State the samples, solvents and analytical method the system must handle. Specify pump configuration, gradient capability, operating pressure, flow range, degassing, injector type, column compatibility, column temperature control and detector type. Set acceptance criteria for retention-time repeatability, peak-area repeatability, baseline noise and carryover using an agreed test mixture and method.

List every supplied module, connection, column, computer and software licence. Agree installation support, raw-data export, software access, replacement seals and lamps, and the contents of the service manual. Request a demonstration using your method rather than accepting a chromatogram from an unrelated application.

For equipment within the electrical safety rules, the importer must ensure easily understandable English instructions accompany it. Electromagnetic compatibility rules cover electrical and electronic equipment liable to generate electromagnetic disturbance, subject to exceptions. Ask the supplier to identify the applicable rules and provide model-matched supporting documents. For products within hazardous-substance rules, individual products must show the importer's name or trademark and a contactable address on the product or packaging.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: An illustrative order for a complete HPLC system under 9027 20 00 00, invoiced at £10,000 free on board, with £900 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £10,900. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £10,900, so it is £2,180. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.

Inspection checklist

Configuration: check module identities, serial numbers, detector type, columns, fittings and software access against the agreed supply list.

Fluid path: check solvent compatibility, priming, leaks, pressure stability and gradient performance under the agreed operating conditions.

Analytical performance: run the agreed test mixture, examine repeatability and baseline stability, and follow concentrated samples with blanks to check carryover.

Arrival and documents: inspect transit damage and loose connections, repeat the acceptance run after installation, and match instructions and supporting documents to the delivered models. Agree the scope through testing and certification.

What goes wrong

Leaks, air in the solvent path, worn pump seals and contaminated injector components can cause unstable pressure, drifting retention times or carryover. A factory demonstration may hide these problems if it uses a different column, solvent programme or sample. Keep the method, test mixture and acceptance criteria fixed for the factory and arrival checks.

Software access can also block use: a missing licence, unavailable installer or unsupported computer leaves an otherwise functioning instrument idle. Obtain installation files and agreed access before shipment, and confirm who will diagnose failures and supply compatible service parts.

Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For components and parts, see sourcing for manufacturers.