Find HS Code and trade information for tripod ring

Tripod Ring

A tripod ring, also known as a lens collar, is a support accessory used in photography and videography to improve balance and maneuverability when using long or heavy lenses with a tripod.

Material

Tripod rings are typically constructed from aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy, or carbon fiber. Aluminum is common due to its balance of cost and durability. Magnesium is lighter but often more expensive. Carbon fiber offers the greatest weight savings at a premium price. Some older or lower-end rings may be made of plastic, though these are less common for professional use.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a tripod ring is to shift the center of gravity of the camera-lens combination directly over the tripod head. This provides significantly improved stability, particularly when using heavier lenses, and allows for smoother panning movements. Without a ring, the weight of a long lens extending far beyond the camera body can cause instability and make precise adjustments difficult.

Function

A tripod ring clamps around the barrel of the lens. It features a dovetail or clamp that slides onto a corresponding base plate attached to the tripod head. The ring allows the lens to be rotated independently of the camera body, facilitating adjustments to framing without re-positioning the entire setup. Many rings include a locking mechanism to secure the lens in the desired orientation.

Usage Scenarios

• Wildlife Photography: Essential for supporting large telephoto lenses during extended shooting sessions.
• Sports Photography: Enables quick and smooth tracking of fast-moving subjects.
• Videography: Provides stable panning and tilting movements for professional-quality footage.
• Astrophotography: Allows for precise tracking of celestial objects.
• Long Exposure Photography: Minimizes vibrations and ensures sharp images.

Common Types

• Standard Tripod Rings: The most common type, designed for specific lens diameters. These usually feature a dovetail clamp.
• Foot-Style Tripod Rings: Integrate a foot for resting the lens on a flat surface when not mounted on a tripod, offering additional support and stability.
• Quick Release Tripod Rings: Feature a quick release mechanism for faster attachment and detachment.
• Arca-Swiss Compatible Tripod Rings: Designed to work with Arca-Swiss style tripod heads and quick release plates, offering compatibility with a wide range of professional equipment.
• Rotating Tripod Rings: Allow for 360-degree rotation, useful for panoramic photography and videography.

Based on the provided information, a tripod ring falls under the category of parts and accessories for instruments. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 9017800000: This HS code covers “Other instruments”. The tax details are: a basic tariff of 5.3%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and an additional tariff of 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 60.3%. This code is applicable if the tripod ring is considered an integral part of a larger instrument.

• 9017900160: This HS code covers “Parts and accessories Other”. The tax details are: the rate applicable to the article of which it is a part or accessory, an additional tariff of 0.0%, and an additional tariff of 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of the rate applicable to the article of which it is a part or accessory + 30.0%. This code is applicable if the tripod ring is an accessory to an instrument.

• 9033009000: This HS code covers “Parts and accessories (not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter) for machines, appliances, instruments or apparatus of chapter 90: Other”. The tax details are: a basic tariff of 4.4%, an additional tariff of 25.0%, and an additional tariff of 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 59.4%. This code is applicable if the tripod ring is a part for a machine, appliance, or instrument of chapter 90.

It is important to determine the specific article to which the tripod ring belongs to accurately calculate the applicable tariff.