At the SITC heading level, both prescription and sunglass frames fall within this category. At the HTS tariff line level, the distinction typically turns on whether the frame is designed to hold corrective lenses versus tinted or protective lenses, and sometimes on the frame material. Importers should review the applicable HTS subheadings carefully, as duty rates and any applicable trade-remedy exposure can differ.

No. Once lenses are fitted into a frame to create a finished pair of spectacles or goggles, the assembled article is classified as complete spectacles or goggles rather than as frames. This heading applies to frames and mountings imported without lenses, or with only non-optical placeholder lenses.