HS Code 85.27 – Reception apparatus for radio-broadcasting, whether or not combined, in the same housing, with sound recording or reproducing apparatus or a clock.

HS code 8527 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Reception apparatus for radio-broadcasting, whether or not combined, in the same housing, with sound recording or reproducing apparatus or a clock.. Heading 8527 specifically covers "Reception apparatus for radio-broadcasting, whether or not combined, in the same housing, with sound recording or reproducing apparatus or a clock." This classification is dedicated to devices whose primary function is to receive radio broadcasts. It distinctly focuses on the 'reception' aspect, differentiating it from two-way communication devices or transmission apparatus. The 'whether or not combined' clause is crucial, allowing for the inclusion of common consumer electronics that integrate a radio receiver with other functionalities like a cassette player, CD player, or a clock, all within a single housing. This includes traditional AM/FM radios, portable boomboxes, clock radios, and car radios (without video display functionality). The scope is limited to apparatus designed for broadcast reception, not for receiving data or other forms of wireless communication. For trade compliance, correctly identifying the primary function is paramount to avoid misclassification with more complex communication devices (8517) or standalone sound recording/reproducing equipment (8519, 8521). Historically, this heading reflects the evolution of consumer audio electronics, from simple transistor radios to integrated entertainment systems. As part of Chapter 85 and Section XVI, it highlights the segment of electrical machinery dedicated to audio entertainment and information reception.

AM/FM radio receivers, shortwave radio receivers, portable radio receivers, clock radios, car radios (without video screen), boomboxes with radio and CD/cassette player, internet radio receivers (primarily for broadcast streams), emergency weather radios, tabletop radios, transistor radios, digital radio receivers (DAB/DAB+ receivers), shower radios, retro-style radio receivers, kitchen radios, personal stereo systems with integrated radio, public address (PA) system receivers (if for broadcast radio reception), multi-band radio receivers, pocket radios, radio tuners (standalone, without amplifier), walkman-style radio receivers, vintage radio reproductions.

A common misclassification is confusing radio reception apparatus (8527) with two-way radio communication devices (8517), such as walkie-talkies or transceivers. 8527 is strictly for reception. Another error is classifying smart speakers or streaming devices that connect to the internet but do not primarily receive traditional radio broadcasts; these often fall under 8517 (telecommunication apparatus) or 8518 (loudspeakers). Also, standalone sound recording or reproducing apparatus (e.g., a CD player without a radio) should be classified under 8519 or 8521, not 8527. The key is the presence and primacy of the radio broadcast reception function within the same housing.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8527 in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.7B, 30% of world exports), Mexico ($1.8B) and Portugal ($808M). World exports came to about $9.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 8527 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($3.3B, 39% of world imports), Mexico ($569M) and Germany ($390M). World imports came to about $8.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 8527 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 85 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (27) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.