Measuring Tape HSN Code: Classification and GST Guide

Updated Upd Jan 21, 2026

Published Pub Nov 28, 2025

12 min

By Fazeel Zaidi

Measuring tapes are essential tools in construction, interior design, tailoring, engineering and many other trades. Under GST, they are treated as measuring instruments and classified based on the material and design. Using the correct measuring tape HSN code keeps your invoices accurate and makes it easy to match purchase and sales data.

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Measuring Tape HSN Code Classification and GST Rates

Here are some commonly used HSN codes and GST rates for this category

Section
Section No	18
Section Title	Guide to HSN Section 18
Section Description	OPTICAL, PHOTOGRAPHIC, CINEMATOGRAPHIC, MEASURING, CHECKING, PRECISION, MEDICAL OR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND APPARATUS; CLOCKS AND WATCHES; MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; PARTS AND ACCESSORIES THEREOF

Chapter
Chapter No	90
Chapter Title	Optical & Medical Instruments
Chapter Description	Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof

4 Digit HSN Code Classification

HSN Code	HSN Code Title	GST Rate
9017	Mathematical calculating instruments	18%

8 Digit HSN Code Classification

HSN Code	HSN Code Title	GST Rate
90171000	Drafting tables and machines	18%
90172010	Drawing & Marking-Out Instruments	18%
90172020	Measuring Instruments for Length & Hand Use	18%
90172030	Drawing & Calculating Instruments: Pantograph	18%
90172090	Drawing & Calculating Instruments: Other Types	18%
90173010	Micrometers, calipers	18%
90173021	Mechanical Signalling, Road Rail Control	18%
90173022	Micrometers, calipers and gauges : Gauges : Ring	18%
90173023	Micrometers, calipers and gauges : Gauges : Slip	18%
90173029	Micrometers, calipers and gauges : Gauges : Other	18%
90178010	Measuring rods, tapes, scales	18%
90178090	Other Instruments \| Other	18%
90179000	Parts And Accessories	18%

* GST rates may vary based on the latest GST notifications

HSN code for retractable measuring tapes

Retractable steel tapes are widely used on construction sites, in factories and in survey work. They usually fall under the heading for instruments for measuring length. The HSN code for these tapes remains the same even if the length changes from three metres to thirty metres, as long as their basic design and use do not change.

HSN code for tailor and cloth tapes

Tailor tapes made of cloth or flexible plastic are also classified as measuring instruments. They are mostly used in garment and fashion industry. Shops can use a single measuring tape HSN code for all such tapes and simply distinguish them in the item description by length or brand.

How HSN codes affect import and sale of measuring tapes?

When you import measuring tapes, the same HSN code is used to calculate customs duty and IGST. A wrong code can change duty or draw extra queries. In domestic trade, consistent use of correct codes helps in GSTR 1 reporting and avoids mismatch with vendor invoices when you claim input tax credit.

What is the HSN code for measuring tapes?

Measuring tapes are generally classified as measuring instruments under HSN 901780 when they are standard steel or tailor tapes. Simple plastic measuring tapes can sometimes be classified under HSN 392690, and tool kits that include a tape along with other tools may fall under HSN 820600. The correct code depends on how the product is built and sold.

How is a retractable measuring tape classified under HSN?

Retractable steel measuring tapes used in construction, survey or engineering usually fall under HSN 901780, which covers instruments for measuring length. The HSN remains the same whether the tape is 3 metres or 30 metres long, as long as it is a steel or similar retractable tape whose main function is length measurement.

Are there different HSN codes for different types of measuring tapes?

Yes. Steel retractable tapes and tailor tapes are generally classified under HSN 901780. Simple plastic household tapes can be classified under HSN 392690 as plastic articles. Tool kits containing a measuring tape plus other hand tools may be classified under HSN 820600 when sold as a single set. So material, design and packing style can all change the HSN code.

How do HSN codes impact the price of measuring tools?

HSN codes decide which GST rate and customs rate apply. Measuring tapes generally attract the standard GST rate for industrial tools, often 18 percent. If a wrong HSN code is used, it can result in overpayment or underpayment of tax, affect landed cost on imports and create problems while claiming input tax credit. Correct coding helps keep pricing, margin calculation and tax reporting accurate.

Why should measuring tapes have specific HSN codes?

Using specific HSN codes for different types of measuring tapes keeps invoices clear and makes it easy to match purchase and sales data in GST returns. It also helps customs authorities apply the right duty on imported tools and reduces queries during audit. Clear HSN wise classification is a simple way to avoid disputes and support smooth compliance for both buyers and sellers.

Fazeel Zaidi

Chartered Accountant • Prayagraj • MRN No.: 469741

I’m Fazeel Zaidi, a Chartered Accountant based in Prayagraj with 8 years of experience. I specialize in GST and Audits, helping businesses stay compliant and audit-ready. With a B.Com background, I focus on practical, clear guidance that simplifies regulations and supports better decision-making.