Importing reading glasses from China is one of the most cost-effective ways to build a profitable eyewear business — but the process has more moving parts than most new buyers expect. Here’s what you need to know before your first container ships.
Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) Codes for Reading Glasses
Using the correct HTS code is critical — it determines your duty rate and whether your goods face regulatory scrutiny at customs.
| Product | HTS Code | US Duty Rate | EU Duty Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading glasses (non-prescription) | 9004.90.00 | 2.5% + processing fee | 3.7% |
| Reading glasses frames (without lenses) | 9003.11.00 (acetate) / 9003.19.00 (other) | 3% / 6.2% | 2.2%–5.2% |
| Sunglasses (non-prescription) | 9004.10.00 | 6.2% | 8% + anti-dumping |
| Prescription eyeglasses | 9001.40.00 / 9001.50.00 | 2.5% | Varies |
Note: HTS rates are periodically updated. Always verify current rates with a licensed customs broker before importing.
US Import Requirements
FDA Regulation
Non-prescription reading glasses are classified as “medical devices” by the FDA under 21 CFR 801.410. Key requirements:
- Registration: Foreign manufacturers must register with the FDA (establishment registration)
- Listing: Products must be listed with the FDA prior to commercial import
- Labeling: Must bear a “Non-Prescription” statement; manufacturer address must appear on the product
- No 510(k) clearance required for non-prescription reading glasses — unlike prescription lenses which require premarket review
Customs Entry
- Work with a licensed customs broker to clear your shipment
- Provide commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading
- Be prepared for a customs exam (random selection — typically 1–5% of shipments)
- Importer of Record (IOR) must have a valid CBP bond
EU Import Requirements
CE Marking
Reading glasses sold in the EU must carry CE marking under the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation (EU) 2016/425 (for sunglasses) or General Product Safety Directive (for non-prescription readers).
- The factory must issue a Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
- Technical documentation must be maintained for 10 years
- An EU-based Authorized Representative is required for non-EU manufacturers
REACH Compliance
For metal frames, ensure the factory provides REACH-compliant test reports confirming:
- Nickel release rate below 0.5 µg/cm²/week (EN 1811)
- No restricted phthalates or heavy metals above threshold
Shipping Options: Sea Freight vs. Air Freight
Sea Freight (20ft or 40ft Container)
- Best for: Orders of 3,000+ units (fills most of a 20ft container)
- Transit time: 25–40 days to US West Coast; 35–50 days to US East Coast or EU ports
- Cost: $2,000–$6,000 for a 20ft container depending on origin port and fuel surcharges
- Key document: Bill of Lading (B/L)
Air Freight
- Best for: Samples, small trial orders, time-sensitive restocks
- Transit time: 5–10 days door-to-door
- Cost: $4–$8 per kg; 500kg air shipment ≈ $2,000–$4,000
Courier Services (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
- Best for: Samples and documents only
- Limitation: Not cost-effective above 50–100kg; customs clearance is included but slower for large volumes
Incoterms: Who Pays for What
- EXW (Ex Works): Buyer pays everything from factory door — lowest factory price, highest buyer logistics burden
- FOB (Free on Board): Factory delivers goods to port of departure; buyer pays freight and insurance — most common for B2B eyewear
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Factory pays freight and insurance to destination port — buyer has less control over shipping
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Factory delivers to buyer’s door, including duties — highest factory price but least hassle for buyer
For your first several orders, FOB with a trusted freight forwarder is typically the best balance of cost and control.
Common Import Mistakes to Avoid
- Undervaluing goods: Customs will reject artificially low declared values; penalties can exceed the goods’ value
- Wrong HTS classification: Misclassification can trigger penalties and seizure
- Skipping FDA registration: FDA can refuse entry for unregistered foreign establishments
- Ignoring packaging compliance: Some countries require specific labeling on packaging, not just the product
- Not using a freight forwarder: A good forwarder handles customs, consolidates shipments, and can save more than their fee
Working with Wenzhouframe
We support B2B buyers with complete export documentation packages including Certificate of Origin (Form F or RCEP), commercial invoices, packing lists, and factory FDA registration support. We ship via FOB to major Chinese ports (Ningbo, Shanghai, Yantian) and can recommend freight forwarders if needed. Contact us to discuss your first import order.