Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.
What HTS 6909 Covers
Heading 6909 covers ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical, or other technical uses, along with ceramic troughs, tubs, and similar receptacles used in agriculture, and ceramic pots and jars used for conveying or packing goods. Subheadings distinguish porcelain or china from other ceramics, and include specific provisions for machinery ceramics and grinding media. Examples include crucibles, combustion boats, laboratory dishes, pump and valve components, and ceramic grinding balls.
Notes for Importers
Typical imports are alumina and zirconia crucibles, ceramic pump seals and valve parts, catalyst supports, grinding media, and lab porcelain. A frequent pitfall is confusing technical ceramics here with electrical insulators (heading 8546) or insulating fittings (8547), which are excluded from 6909, and with household or decorative ceramics in headings 6911 and 6912. Classification also depends on whether the ware has a Mohs hardness of 9 or more, which drives some subheading breakouts.
Product Category
Stone, Ceramic, and Glass Products
This chapter covers stone products, ceramic ware, glass, and articles manufactured from these materials.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 6909 |
| Description | Ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical or other technical uses; ceramic troughs, tubs and similar receptacles of a kind used in agriculture; ceramic pots, jars and similar articles of a kind used for the conveyance or packing of goods: |
| Chapter | 69 - Stone, Ceramic, and Glass Products |
| General Duty Rate | |
| Rate Type | Other |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are classified under heading 6909?
Ceramic articles for laboratory, chemical, and technical uses, such as crucibles, lab dishes, ceramic machinery parts, grinding media, plus agricultural troughs and ceramic packing jars.
Do ceramic electrical insulators fall under 6909?
No. Electrical insulators of ceramic classify under heading 8546, and insulating fittings for electrical equipment under 8547. Heading 6909 excludes them.
Does 6909 cover ceramic kitchenware or dinnerware?
No. Household tableware and kitchenware of ceramic classify under headings 6911 (porcelain or china) or 6912 (other ceramics). Heading 6909 is limited to technical, laboratory, agricultural, and packing uses.
What is the HTS code 6909 used for?
HTS code 6909 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical or other technical uses; ceramic troughs, tubs and similar receptacles of a kind used in agriculture; ceramic pots, jars and similar articles of a kind used for the conveyance or packing of goods:. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 6909?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 6909?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Stone, Ceramic, and Glass Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 6909?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 6909 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.