Sourcing micrometers from China
Micrometers from China carry 2% UK duty, with no anti-dumping duty recorded. Confirm the regulatory requirements for workshop micrometers with Trading Standards; buyers should agree accuracy checks and serial-number calibration records. Digital models need their electrical compliance scope checked. Cambridge China Bridge sources micrometers.
Micrometers: 2% UK duty
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 4 November 2026, micrometers fall under 9017 30 00 00 within heading 9017, covering hand-held length-measuring instruments alongside drawing and calculating instruments. The table shows micrometer variants sharing the same commodity line.
The supplied tariff record gives 2% duty for goods from China, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspension or attached import control recorded for this line. The wider heading ranges from 0% to 2%, but the plotter rate does not apply to micrometers.
Confirm the commodity code against the instrument's construction and function before ordering. See the tape measures and callipers guide for the wider heading.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical outside micrometers | 9017 30 00 00 | 2% | None |
Measuring faces, spindle and calibration
Specify outside, inside or depth measurement, measuring range, resolution and permissible indication error separately. Agree measuring-face material, spindle lock, ratchet or friction drive, supplied setting standards and protective case. For interchangeable anvils or rods, list every component and agree checks with each fitted.
For external micrometers, buyers commonly specify ISO 3611, as described in our existing measuring-tools guide. Ask for calibration records tied to each serial number where the instruments will be used for inspection. Agree measurement points and acceptance criteria before approving the sample.
Confirm the regulatory requirements for workshop micrometers with Trading Standards. For digital models, check whether the electromagnetic compatibility regulations apply: they cover electrical and electronic equipment liable to generate electromagnetic disturbance, subject to exceptions. Arrange a model-specific review through testing and certification.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative batch of mechanical outside micrometers under 9017 30 00 00, invoiced at £3,000 free on board, with £900 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £3,900. Duty at 2% is £78. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £3,978, so it is £795.60. Import taxes total £873.60; a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim the VAT, so the lasting cost is the £78 of duty. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Accuracy: compare readings with calibrated gauge blocks or suitable setting standards across the agreed range. Check repeatability, return to zero and results with interchangeable components.
Faces and movement: inspect measuring faces for damage and contamination. Check alignment, smooth spindle travel, backlash, ratchet consistency and whether locking the spindle changes the reading.
Digital operation: check zero drift, display stability, battery drain with the display off and any claimed protection against coolant or dust.
Records and packing: match serial numbers to calibration records and check setting standards, instructions and cases against the order. Look for corrosion, loose components and transport damage.
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What goes wrong
A micrometer can return to zero yet give unacceptable readings elsewhere in its range. Damaged faces, inconsistent measuring force or spindle play can make results depend on the operator. A clear digital display does not establish measurement accuracy.
Generic calibration sheets can arrive without matching serial numbers or measured results. Set the acceptance criteria before production and include them in the inspection brief. Check received instruments against those criteria before releasing them for inspection work.
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.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on micrometers from China?
The supplied tariff record gives 2% under 9017 30 00 00, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty recorded.
Which standard should I specify for outside micrometers?
Our existing guide identifies ISO 3611 for external micrometers. Agree the required accuracy, measurement points and acceptance criteria with the supplier.
Should every micrometer have a calibration certificate?
For inspection work, request a calibration record tied to each instrument's serial number. Agree this as a purchasing requirement and check the measured results.
How do I check digital micrometers before shipment?
Check accuracy against calibrated references, repeatability, zero drift, display stability and battery drain. Have the electrical compliance scope reviewed for the exact model.