Sourcing optical comparison microscopes from China
Optical comparison microscopes from China carry 0% UK duty across the selected heading 9011 lines, with no anti-dumping duty. Mains-powered models need electrical safety evidence. Specify matched magnification, image alignment and independently adjustable lighting. Cambridge China Bridge sources optical comparison microscopes.
UK duty and classification
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 1 October 2026, heading 9011 covers compound optical microscopes, including those for photomicrography and microprojection. The selected lines carry 0% duty for goods from China, with no anti-dumping duty. The supplied records list no countervailing duty or suspension.
The tariff records attach a DCMS Export Licence entry. Official guidance says there are no licensing requirements for importing objects of cultural interest into Great Britain. Ask your customs broker to confirm how the recorded entry applies to your shipment, particularly for antique instruments.
The table shows classification routes to check, rather than interchangeable codes for a comparison microscope. Confirm the optical arrangement, photographic or projection function and whether parts arrive separately using finding your commodity code. See the wider microscope guide for other products in the heading.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stereoscopic microscopes, where that classification fits | 9011 10 00 00 | 0% | None |
| Other microscopes for photomicrography or microprojection | 9011 20 90 00 | 0% | None |
| Other microscopes, including comparison models where classified here | 9011 80 00 00 | 0% | None |
| Microscope parts and accessories | 9011 90 00 00 | 0% | None |
Specify the comparison optical paths
Describe the specimens and holders, reflected or transmitted illumination, objective sets, working distance and stage movement. Specify matched magnification and image orientation between the optical paths, an adjustable comparison boundary, independent focusing and independently adjustable lighting. State whether you need simultaneous images, an overlaid view or photographic capture. Approve the arrangement using your own representative specimens.
For mains-powered models sold in Great Britain, confirm with the relevant authority the applicable requirements under the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016, including UKCA or CE marking, a declaration of conformity and UK importer identification. Also confirm applicable electromagnetic compatibility, restricted substances and waste electrical equipment obligations. Importers must ensure that equipment comes with instructions in easily understandable English. Agree which exact microscope, illuminators and power supplies the supplier's evidence covers.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative batch of replacement stages for optical comparison microscopes under 9011 90 00 00, invoiced at £1,500 free on board, with £900 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £2,400. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £2,400, so it is £480. 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
Optical matching: view matching reference specimens through each path at every supplied magnification. Check apparent scale, colour, sharpness and image orientation, then move the comparison boundary across the field.
Stages and focus: load the agreed specimen holders. Check smooth movement, secure clamping, independent focusing and whether either image drifts after adjustment.
Lighting and capture: adjust each illuminator separately and compare brightness and colour. Check for flicker, glare and shadows; confirm that captured images reproduce the viewed comparison.
Documents and packing: match model identification to the declaration and supporting reports. Check markings, importer details, English instructions and supplied accessories. Inspect for loose optical bridges, dust, fungus and movement inside the transit case.
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What goes wrong
Similar-looking objective sets can produce different apparent scales or colour between the images. A blurred comparison boundary, focus drift or uneven illumination can make matching specimens appear different. A camera image may also crop the comparison field or reverse its orientation.
Transit can disturb the bridge alignment even when the casing looks undamaged. Record the approved specimen comparison and repeat it on arrival before accepting the shipment. Agree adjustment instructions and replacement-part compatibility, and put these checks into the inspection brief.
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 optical comparison microscopes from China?
The selected heading 9011 microscope and parts lines carry 0% duty for goods from China in the supplied tariff reading, with no anti-dumping duty. Confirm the code for the exact configuration.
Which commodity code covers a comparison microscope?
Check 9011 80 00 00 for other microscopes, but confirm the optical arrangement and photographic or projection functions. The product name alone does not settle the classification.
Do mains-powered comparison microscopes need CE or UKCA marking?
For mains-powered models intended for the Great Britain market, confirm applicable UKCA or CE marking, declaration of conformity and UK importer identification requirements with the relevant authority.
How do I check that the images match?
Use matching reference specimens in the agreed holders. Compare apparent scale, colour, orientation and sharpness at every supplied magnification, then check the boundary, focus stability and captured image.