Sourcing mounted polarising filters from China

Duty on mounted polarising filters

Heading 9002 covers mounted optical elements used as parts of or fittings for instruments or apparatus. Mounted polarising optical filters fall within the filters line, 9002 20 00 00. The table shows product variants sharing that commodity line, rather than separate tariff classifications.

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 30 September 2026, the supplied tariff snapshot records 0% duty for filters from China, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspension or attached import control recorded for this line. Import VAT is separate from customs duty.

Confirm the commodity code against the finished filter, its mounting and intended use. Unmounted optical elements belong to a different heading. For related mounted filters within the wider heading, see the mounted neutral density filter guide.

Specify polarisation and the mounting

Specify circular or linear polarisation, the intended camera or instrument, clear aperture, outside diameter, thread or holder dimensions, frame material and rotation mechanism. Agree transmission, suppression of unwanted polarisation, colour neutrality and coating performance using a stated test method. For circular filters, identify the intended light-entry side and check the sample on the actual equipment.

For filters intended for, or reasonably likely to be used by, consumers in Great Britain, general product safety rules apply. Businesses importing or selling consumer products are responsible for their safety. Include checks for loose glass, sharp frame edges and secure retaining rings in the purchasing brief. Agree suitable evidence through testing and certification.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: 150 mounted circular polarising filters; illustrative order and values under 9002 20 00 00, invoiced at £1,500 free on board, with £120 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £1,620. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £1,620, so it is £324. 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

Polarisation: compare production samples with the approved sample using the same light source and optical arrangement; check unwanted light leakage, transmission and colour changes as the filter rotates.

Image quality: test on the intended camera or instrument for loss of sharpness, reflections and uneven colour; compare results with and without the filter.

Mounting: check thread or holder fit, clear aperture and secure glass retention; turn the adjustment ring throughout its travel and check for sticking or excessive play.

Surfaces and packing: inspect for scratches, trapped dust, coating defects and separation within the filter; check protective cases, dry packing and matching product identification.

What goes wrong

A filter can fit the lens yet deliver the wrong optical behaviour. Substituting linear for circular polarisation, reversing a directional assembly or changing the polarising material can alter results on the buyer's equipment. Colour casts, light leakage and reflections may become apparent only when production filters are compared under the agreed test conditions.

Tight threads, a loose retaining ring or an uneven rotating frame can make an otherwise usable filter difficult to fit or adjust. Moisture and separation within a laminated filter can produce haze or patches. Keep an approved sample and compare incoming batches before releasing stock.

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.