HS Code for Commercial drones

Commercial drones are classified under HS code 8806.23, a category specifically created for unmanned aircraft designed for remote-controlled flight with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of more than 7 kg but not more than 25 kg. This classification was introduced in the 2022 HS update to provide more granularity for the rapidly growing drone market. The classification is based entirely on the weight and the fact that the aircraft is 'unmanned' (not designed to carry a pilot or passengers). Drones in this weight class are typically used for professional and commercial applications, such as agricultural spraying, industrial inspections, or high-end aerial cinematography. The 'remote-controlled' designation implies that the aircraft is operated by a pilot from the ground, though it may have autonomous flight capabilities. By placing these in 8806.23, customs authorities can better track the movement of industrial-grade drones which may be subject to different regulations than smaller consumer toys or larger military-grade unmanned aircraft.

Products Included

• Professional cinematography drones (7-25kg)
• Agricultural crop-spraying drones
• Industrial inspection UAVs
• Medium-sized delivery drones
• Search and rescue unmanned aircraft

Common Misclassification

Commercial drones are frequently misclassified under 8806.22 (drones between 250g and 7kg) or 8806.24 (drones between 25kg and 150kg). Accurate weighing of the aircraft, including its maximum payload and battery, is essential for correct classification. They are also sometimes incorrectly placed in 9503.00 as 'toys'; however, any drone with a weight exceeding 250g or possessing professional-grade sensors and flight controllers is generally excluded from the toy category and must be classified under 8806.

FAQ

What is the HS code for commercial drones?

The HS code for commercial drones with a maximum take-off weight between 7 kg and 25 kg is 8806.23.

Does the weight include the camera?

Yes, the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) includes the weight of the drone, the battery, and the maximum payload (such as a camera or sensor) it is capable of carrying.