Chapter 90 covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus, precision instruments and apparatus, and parts and accessories thereof. Goods under this chapter are characterized by high technology content and precision manufacturing, and are widely used in industry, medical care, scientific research, consumer electronics, and other fields. As a core component of vehicle intelligent systems, vehicle-mounted image processing equipment falls within the category of electronic precision devices under this chapter. Heading 9010 includes: apparatus for the projection or drawing of circuit patterns on sensitized semiconductor materials; apparatus for recording images or data directly onto photosensitive paper or other photosensitive materials (such as cameras, cinematographic cameras); image or data projection apparatus; and image or data processing apparatus not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter. Vehicle-mounted image processing equipment, which processes, analyzes, or records images captured by cameras in real time, falls under other image processing equipment within this heading. Code 901090 is a six-digit subheading: the first 2 digits 90 represent Chapter 90 (optical, photographic, medical, and other precision instruments); digits 3-4, 10, represent heading 9010 (image recording, projection, and processing apparatus); digits 5-6, 90, represent subheading 9010.90, i.e., "other" image processing equipment. This subheading covers image processing devices not specified in 9010.10 through 9010.80, such as vehicle-mounted image processing equipment and specialized image analyzers. The core function of vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is to digitally process, analyze, or enhance image signals, making it image processing equipment rather than a simple optical lens (9002) or camera (9007). Since it does not directly record onto photosensitive materials and is not projection apparatus, it is classified under subheading 9010.90 "other."
Chapter
Chapter 90 covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus, precision instruments and apparatus, and parts and accessories thereof. Goods under this chapter are characterized by high technology content and precision manufacturing, and are widely used in industry, medical care, scientific research, consumer electronics, and other fields. As a core component of vehicle intelligent systems, vehicle-mounted image processing equipment falls within the category of electronic precision devices under this chapter.
Heading
Heading 9010 includes: apparatus for the projection or drawing of circuit patterns on sensitized semiconductor materials; apparatus for recording images or data directly onto photosensitive paper or other photosensitive materials (such as cameras, cinematographic cameras); image or data projection apparatus; and image or data processing apparatus not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter. Vehicle-mounted image processing equipment, which processes, analyzes, or records images captured by cameras in real time, falls under other image processing equipment within this heading.
Digit Breakdown
Code 901090 is a six-digit subheading: the first 2 digits 90 represent Chapter 90 (optical, photographic, medical, and other precision instruments); digits 3-4, 10, represent heading 9010 (image recording, projection, and processing apparatus); digits 5-6, 90, represent subheading 9010.90, i.e., "other" image processing equipment. This subheading covers image processing devices not specified in 9010.10 through 9010.80, such as vehicle-mounted image processing equipment and specialized image analyzers.
Classification Basis
The core function of vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is to digitally process, analyze, or enhance image signals, making it image processing equipment rather than a simple optical lens (9002) or camera (9007). Since it does not directly record onto photosensitive materials and is not projection apparatus, it is classified under subheading 9010.90 "other."
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The Chinese and English names of the declared goods, which should accurately reflect the device function, such as "vehicle-mounted image processing equipment." Use: Explain the specific application scenario of the device, such as "used in commercial vehicle ADAS systems to process camera images in real time." Function: Describe the core functions of the device, such as image enhancement, target recognition, video compression, etc. Working Principle: Briefly describe the technical principle, such as "processing images input from a CMOS sensor through algorithmic processing via an FPGA chip." Brand: Declare the manufacturer or brand name, such as "Continental," "Bosch," etc. Model: Fill in the specific model, such as "ARS540." Whether Camera Is Integrated: Declare whether the device includes an image acquisition module, which affects classification determination. Image Processing Resolution: Such as "1920x1080," reflecting the device performance parameters. Product Name: Vehicle-mounted image processing equipment; Use: Used in heavy truck ADAS systems to process forward-facing camera images in real time; Function: Image denoising, target detection, lane line recognition; Working Principle: Running deep learning algorithms through a dedicated SoC chip to process image signals from LVDS interface; Brand: Bosch; Model: MPC3; Whether Camera Is Integrated: No; Image Processing Resolution: 1280x960. Mistakenly classifying image processing equipment with a camera under 9007 (cameras), ignoring its core processing function. Failing to distinguish "image processing" from "image recording"; if the device only stores images, it may be classified under another heading. Failing to provide technical parameters during declaration, causing customs to question the classification and requiring supplementary explanation of principles.
Product Name
The Chinese and English names of the declared goods, which should accurately reflect the device function, such as "vehicle-mounted image processing equipment."
⚠️ Writing only "imaging equipment" or "vehicle-mounted camera," which is too general or incorrectly classified.
Use
Explain the specific application scenario of the device, such as "used in commercial vehicle ADAS systems to process camera images in real time."
⚠️ Writing "used in automobiles" is too broad and does not reflect the image processing function.
Function
Describe the core functions of the device, such as image enhancement, target recognition, video compression, etc.
⚠️ Confusing function with use, or omitting key processing capabilities.
Working Principle
Briefly describe the technical principle, such as "processing images input from a CMOS sensor through algorithmic processing via an FPGA chip."
⚠️ Writing only "electronic processing" without specifying the technical method.
Brand
Declare the manufacturer or brand name, such as "Continental," "Bosch," etc.
⚠️ Filling in a trader's brand rather than the actual manufacturing brand.
Model
Fill in the specific model, such as "ARS540."
⚠️ Incomplete model or model inconsistent with the actual product.
Whether Camera Is Integrated
Declare whether the device includes an image acquisition module, which affects classification determination.
⚠️ Incorrectly declaring "yes" or "no," leading to classification deviation.
Image Processing Resolution
Such as "1920x1080," reflecting the device performance parameters.
⚠️ Filling in inaccurate information or using non-standard units.
Example: Product Name: Vehicle-mounted image processing equipment; Use: Used in heavy truck ADAS systems to process forward-facing camera images in real time; Function: Image denoising, target detection, lane line recognition; Working Principle: Running deep learning algorithms through a dedicated SoC chip to process image signals from LVDS interface; Brand: Bosch; Model: MPC3; Whether Camera Is Integrated: No; Image Processing Resolution: 1280x960.
Common Mistakes:
Mistakenly classifying image processing equipment with a camera under 9007 (cameras), ignoring its core processing function.
Failing to distinguish "image processing" from "image recording"; if the device only stores images, it may be classified under another heading.
Failing to provide technical parameters during declaration, causing customs to question the classification and requiring supplementary explanation of principles.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core basis for classification is the essential function of the device. The main function of vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is to process, analyze, or enhance image signals, rather than simply acquire or display them. According to HS Notes, 9010 covers "other image processing equipment," including specialized processing devices used in industrial, medical, automotive, and other fields. If a device only has camera functionality, it should be classified under 9007; if it has display functionality, it may be classified under 8528. Therefore, 9010.90 applies to devices with processing algorithms as the core and without integrated display or recording media. 9007 Cameras, photographic cameras: 9007 covers image acquisition devices, such as vehicle-mounted cameras; while 9010.90 covers devices that process already-acquired images and do not directly acquire images. 8528 Monitors, projectors: 8528 includes display devices, such as vehicle-mounted display screens; 9010.90 devices usually have no display function and only output processed signals. 8543 Other electrical equipment: 8543 is a residual heading; if a device has independent image processing functionality, it should preferentially be classified under 9010.90. 9032 Automatic regulating or controlling instruments: 9032 is used for automatic control; if image processing is merely an input link in a control system, it may be classified under 9032, but independent processing equipment is still classified under 9010. Is image processing the core function of the device? Does it include an image acquisition module (such as a camera)? Does it have the ability to display or record images? Is it used in specific scenarios such as automotive or industrial applications? Can it be classified under other subheadings of 9010?
Basis
The core basis for classification is the essential function of the device. The main function of vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is to process, analyze, or enhance image signals, rather than simply acquire or display them. According to HS Notes, 9010 covers "other image processing equipment," including specialized processing devices used in industrial, medical, automotive, and other fields. If a device only has camera functionality, it should be classified under 9007; if it has display functionality, it may be classified under 8528. Therefore, 9010.90 applies to devices with processing algorithms as the core and without integrated display or recording media.
Confused Codes:
9007 - Cameras, photographic cameras
9007 covers image acquisition devices, such as vehicle-mounted cameras; while 9010.90 covers devices that process already-acquired images and do not directly acquire images.
8528 - Monitors, projectors
8528 includes display devices, such as vehicle-mounted display screens; 9010.90 devices usually have no display function and only output processed signals.
8543 - Other electrical equipment
8543 is a residual heading; if a device has independent image processing functionality, it should preferentially be classified under 9010.90.
9032 - Automatic regulating or controlling instruments
9032 is used for automatic control; if image processing is merely an input link in a control system, it may be classified under 9032, but independent processing equipment is still classified under 9010.
Self-Check:
✓ Is image processing the core function of the device?
✓ Does it include an image acquisition module (such as a camera)?
✓ Does it have the ability to display or record images?
✓ Is it used in specific scenarios such as automotive or industrial applications?
✓ Can it be classified under other subheadings of 9010?
❓ FAQ
What is the difference in HS codes between vehicle-mounted image processing equipment and vehicle-mounted cameras? Vehicle-mounted cameras are usually classified under 9007 (cameras) because their main function is image acquisition; while vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is classified under 9010.90 because its core function is to process, analyze, or enhance image signals and it does not directly acquire images. If a device has both acquisition and processing functions, classification should be determined based on the primary function. How can it be determined whether vehicle-mounted image processing equipment should be classified under 9010.90? First confirm whether the device has image processing as its core function, such as target recognition or image enhancement; second check whether it does not include a display or recording module; finally refer to HS Notes and classification decisions. If it meets these conditions, it is classified under 9010.90. It is recommended to provide technical specifications as supporting evidence. What technical parameters need to be provided during declaration? Processing resolution, interface type, chip model, algorithm type, whether a camera is integrated, etc. should be provided. These parameters help customs determine the device function and avoid classification disputes. If the device has a display screen, which code should it be classified under? If the device integrates a display screen and display is the main function, it may be classified under 8528 (monitors); if display is only an auxiliary function and the core remains image processing, it is still classified under 9010.90. Determination should be based on the principal function principle. How should 9010.90 and 9032.89 be distinguished? 9032.89 applies to automatic regulating or controlling instruments. If the image processing equipment is part of an automatic control system and outputs control signals, it may be classified under 9032; but if it independently processes images and outputs image signals, it is classified under 9010.90. What certifications are required for importing vehicle-mounted image processing equipment? Generally, it must comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and automotive electronic reliability standards, such as CE, FCC, etc. Specific certification requirements depend on the destination country's regulations; consulting a professional institution is recommended. How can the tariff rate for 9010.90 be checked? You can visit the website of the General Administration of Customs of China or use a customs tariff query tool, enter HS code 901090, and check the MFN rate, general rate, etc. Tariff rates may be adjusted with policy changes; the latest published rates should be used. If the device has image recording functionality, does it affect classification? If the main function of the device is to record images (such as a dashcam), it may be classified under 8521 (video recording equipment); if recording is only an auxiliary function and the core remains processing, it is classified under 9010.90. Determination should be based on the principal function.
Q: What is the difference in HS codes between vehicle-mounted image processing equipment and vehicle-mounted cameras?
A: Vehicle-mounted cameras are usually classified under 9007 (cameras) because their main function is image acquisition; while vehicle-mounted image processing equipment is classified under 9010.90 because its core function is to process, analyze, or enhance image signals and it does not directly acquire images. If a device has both acquisition and processing functions, classification should be determined based on the primary function.
Q: How can it be determined whether vehicle-mounted image processing equipment should be classified under 9010.90?
A: First confirm whether the device has image processing as its core function, such as target recognition or image enhancement; second check whether it does not include a display or recording module; finally refer to HS Notes and classification decisions. If it meets these conditions, it is classified under 9010.90. It is recommended to provide technical specifications as supporting evidence.
Q: What technical parameters need to be provided during declaration?
A: Processing resolution, interface type, chip model, algorithm type, whether a camera is integrated, etc. should be provided. These parameters help customs determine the device function and avoid classification disputes.
Q: If the device has a display screen, which code should it be classified under?
A: If the device integrates a display screen and display is the main function, it may be classified under 8528 (monitors); if display is only an auxiliary function and the core remains image processing, it is still classified under 9010.90. Determination should be based on the principal function principle.
Q: How should 9010.90 and 9032.89 be distinguished?
A: 9032.89 applies to automatic regulating or controlling instruments. If the image processing equipment is part of an automatic control system and outputs control signals, it may be classified under 9032; but if it independently processes images and outputs image signals, it is classified under 9010.90.
Q: What certifications are required for importing vehicle-mounted image processing equipment?
A: Generally, it must comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and automotive electronic reliability standards, such as CE, FCC, etc. Specific certification requirements depend on the destination country's regulations; consulting a professional institution is recommended.
Q: How can the tariff rate for 9010.90 be checked?
A: You can visit the website of the General Administration of Customs of China or use a customs tariff query tool, enter HS code 901090, and check the MFN rate, general rate, etc. Tariff rates may be adjusted with policy changes; the latest published rates should be used.
Q: If the device has image recording functionality, does it affect classification?
A: If the main function of the device is to record images (such as a dashcam), it may be classified under 8521 (video recording equipment); if recording is only an auxiliary function and the core remains processing, it is classified under 9010.90. Determination should be based on the principal function.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.