The US schedule distinguishes clinical infrared thermometers — those intended for measuring human body temperature for diagnostic purposes — from industrial or general-purpose infrared thermometers. Clinical types fall under 9025198010, 9025198020, or 9025198040 depending on additional specification criteria, while non-clinical infrared thermometers fall under 9025198060 or the broader NESOI lines. The intended use and FDA device classification of the product are the controlling factors; a thermometer marketed for body temperature measurement will be treated as clinical regardless of whether it could also measure surface temperatures.

Many thermometer lines under 9025.19 have been subject to Section 301 tariffs on Chinese-origin goods. During the COVID-19 pandemic, certain clinical infrared thermometer lines received temporary exclusions, but exclusion status has changed over time. Importers should check the current USTR Section 301 list and any active exclusions at the time of entry, as the applicable rate and exclusion availability can shift.