Sourcing polished lead glass from China

Zero duty on qualifying polished sheets

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 2 October 2026, heading 7005 covers float glass and surface-ground or polished glass in sheets, whether coated or uncoated, but not otherwise worked. This guide concerns polished radiation-shielding lead glass sheets supplied in that form. The supplied tariff data records 0% duty for China across every listed line, with no anti-dumping or countervailing measures, suspensions or attached import controls.

The table shows alternative tariff descriptions to check against the actual sheets. Confirm thickness, body tint and any surface layer when finding your commodity code. Describe shielding within the glass separately from any absorbent surface layer. For the broader product family, see float glass from China.

Specify shielding performance and the viewing aperture

Specify polished radiation-shielding lead glass by composition, sheet thickness, dimensions, tolerances and usable viewing area. State the required lead equivalence together with the radiation energy range and test conditions. Ask for a report identifying the tested glass grade, sample thickness, method and results, with traceability to the supplied batch.

HSE says radiation employers need to consult a suitable radiation protection adviser. Its guidance places engineering control and design features first when restricting exposure. For procurement, ask the end user's adviser to review the proposed glass, frame overlap and surrounding shielding before the specification is released.

Agree optical clarity, acceptable tint, surface finish, edge condition and packing with the factory. Ask for composition information and a UK REACH assessment for the actual formulation. For help checking the proposed evidence, use testing and certification support.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative crated batch of uncoated polished radiation-shielding lead glass sheets under 7005 29 80 00, invoiced at £11,000 free on board, with £3,200 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £14,200. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £14,200, so it is £2,840. 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

Identity: match crate labels, glass grade and batch records to the order and shielding report.

Dimensions: measure sheet thickness and size against the drawing; check the usable aperture and planned frame overlap.

Optics and edges: inspect for scratches, haze, bubbles, distortion, cracks and chipped corners against the agreed acceptance sample.

Packing and arrival: check interleaving, dry protective packing, supports and restraint before dispatch; photograph crate damage and inspect sheets during unpacking.

What goes wrong

A report can describe another glass grade or thickness, or quote lead equivalence without the radiation conditions needed to interpret it. An apparently clear, correctly sized sheet can therefore remain unverified against the shielding specification. Resolve missing test conditions and batch identity before shipment.

Poor restraint causes edge damage and breakage; damp packing can leave surface marks. A sheet ordered to the visible opening alone may leave insufficient overlap within the frame. Agree the complete glazing drawing, cleaning instructions and damage acceptance process before ordering.

Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For own-brand ranges, see sourcing for brands.