Product classification
HS code for Aerial survey camera: 9015.40
Surveying equipment, photogrammetrical surveying instruments and appliances.
Classification of aerial survey camera under HS 9015.40
The classification of aerial survey cameras under HS code 9015.40 is based on their specialized function as photogrammetrical surveying instruments. While heading 9006 covers general photographic cameras, heading 9015 is dedicated to surveying, hydrographic, oceanographic, hydrological, meteorological, or geophysical instruments. Subheading 9015.40 specifically covers photogrammetrical surveying instruments and appliances. These are not merely cameras that capture images from the air; they are precision instruments designed to derive accurate measurements and create detailed maps from photographic data. This classification includes the cameras themselves when they are integrated parts of a photogrammetric system, as well as the specialized apparatus used to interpret and process the resulting images for geodetic purposes. The distinction lies in the intended use for geodesy, mapping, and spatial analysis rather than simple image capture. The technical complexity and calibration requirements of these instruments place them firmly within the surveying category of Chapter 90.
- Covers
- Photogrammetric cameras
- Stereo-plotting instruments
- Aerial mapping camera systems
- Analytical plotters for aerial photography
- Digital photogrammetric workstations
- Also under 9015.40
- Leica Geosystems HxGN Imagery Program
- Trimble Inpho software
- Vexcel Imaging UltraCam
- Z/I Imaging DMC
- Topcon photogrammetry systems
Codes often confused with 9015.40
Common mistake. Aerial survey cameras are most commonly misclassified under 9006.30, which covers cameras specially designed for aerial survey. The difference is subtle: 9006.30 refers to the camera as a photographic device, while 9015.40 refers to the camera as a photogrammetrical instrument used for surveying. If the device is used to create maps or measure land, 9015.40 is more appropriate. They may also be confused with 9015.80, which covers other surveying instruments that do not use photogrammetry.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901540 (the code used for aerial survey camera), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901540 (the code used for aerial survey camera) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 28% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 901540, not only aerial survey camera.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $55M 29% of world exports
- 2 Germany $34M 18% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $17M 8.9% of world exports
World total: $191M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $55M 28% of world imports
- 2 United Kingdom $13M 6.4% of world imports
- 3 Australia $11M 5.5% of world imports
World total: $199M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for aerial survey camera
Brazil classifies aerial survey camera under NCM 9015.40.00: HS 9015.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about aerial survey camera
What is the HS code for Aerial survey camera?
The HS code for Aerial survey camera is 901540 (Surveying equipment; photogrammetrical surveying instruments and appliances). The HS code for aerial survey cameras used as photogrammetrical surveying instruments is 9015.40.
How do I classify Aerial survey camera for customs?
Aerial survey camera is classified under HS code 901540 — Surveying equipment; photogrammetrical surveying instruments and appliances. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between 9006.30 and 9015.40?
HS code 9006.30 is for the photographic camera itself, whereas 9015.40 is for the instrument when it is used specifically for photogrammetry and surveying purposes.
Which countries are the top exporters of aerial survey camera (HS 901540)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901540 (the code used for aerial survey camera) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($55M, 29% of world exports), Germany ($34M) and the Netherlands ($17M). World exports came to about $191M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of aerial survey camera (HS 901540)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901540 (the code used for aerial survey camera) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($55M, 28% of world imports), the United Kingdom ($13M) and Australia ($11M). World imports came to about $199M, 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.
Is the HS code for Aerial survey camera the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901540 for Aerial survey camera is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for aerial survey camera in Brazil?
In Brazil, aerial survey camera (HS 901540) is classified under NCM 9015.40.00.