Plastic Frames and Mountings for Spectacles and Goggles

Frames and uncut lens blanks imported together but not yet assembled into finished spectacles are generally classified separately — the frame under 900311 and the lens blanks under the appropriate lens heading. A complete spectacle (frame with fitted, finished lenses) would be classified as finished spectacles under a different heading. CBP looks to whether the lenses are fitted and ground to prescription; uncut or unfinished blanks do not transform the frame into a complete spectacle for classification purposes.

Spectacle frames (900311) are designed to hold corrective or protective lenses in front of the eyes in a conventional eyeglass configuration, while goggles typically enclose the eye area more fully and are designed for specific protective applications (sports, industrial, etc.). The distinction can affect classification between 900311 and other headings covering protective equipment. While both may be made of plastic, the design intent and construction — particularly whether the frame is open or encloses the orbital area — guides the classification determination.