Product classification
HS code for Compass: 9014.10
Navigational instruments and appliances, direction finding compasses.
Classification of compass under HS 9014.10
The classification of direction-finding compasses under HS code 901410 is determined by their primary function as navigational instruments. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), products are classified based on their technical characteristics and intended use. Chapter 90 encompasses optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Within this chapter, heading 9014 specifically addresses direction-finding compasses and other navigational instruments and appliances. The subheading 901410 is reserved for compasses designed to indicate the magnetic or true north, which are essential for maritime, aeronautical, and terrestrial navigation. These instruments operate by utilizing the Earth's magnetic field or gyroscopic principles to provide a stable directional reference. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the compass is a simple handheld magnetic device or a sophisticated electronic system integrated into a vessel's bridge, provided its primary purpose is direction finding. The technical complexity of the device does not move it out of this category unless it is specifically designed for aeronautical or space navigation, which would shift the classification to a different subheading within the same group.
- Covers
- Magnetic handheld compasses
- Gyro-compasses for maritime vessels
- Electronic digital compasses
- Binnacle compasses
- Liquid-filled compasses
- Prismatic compasses for surveying
- Also under 9014.10
- Ritchie Navigation compasses
- C. Plath gyrocompasses
- Suunto field compasses
- Garmin electronic compasses
- Raymarine marine compasses
Codes often confused with 9014.10
Common mistake. Compasses are frequently confused with other navigational instruments. Specifically, HS code 901420 is often used incorrectly; this code is strictly for instruments and appliances for aeronautical or space navigation. While a compass is used in planes, if it is a general direction-finding compass, 901410 is more specific. Additionally, HS code 901480 is sometimes used for sonar or other navigational aids, but these do not possess the direction-finding capabilities of a true compass.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901410 (the code used for compass), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901410 (the code used for compass) in UN Comtrade data was France, with 13% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 12% 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 901410, not only compass.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 France $38M 13% of world exports
- 2 United States $34M 11% of world exports
- 3 China $30M 9.8% of world exports
World total: $302M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $40M 12% of world imports
- 2 China $38M 11% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $36M 11% of world imports
World total: $337M 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 compass
Brazil classifies compass under NCM 9014.10.00: HS 9014.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about compass
What is the HS code for Compass?
The HS code for Compass is 901410 (Navigational instruments and appliances; direction finding compasses). The primary HS code for direction-finding compasses is 901410.
How do I classify Compass for customs?
Compass is classified under HS code 901410 — Navigational instruments and appliances; direction finding compasses. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include GPS devices?
No, GPS receivers are generally classified under HS code 852691, as they are radio-navigational aid apparatus rather than mechanical or gyroscopic direction-finding compasses.
Which countries are the top exporters of compass (HS 901410)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901410 (the code used for compass) in UN Comtrade data were France ($38M, 13% of world exports), the United States ($34M) and China ($30M). World exports came to about $302M, 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 compass (HS 901410)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901410 (the code used for compass) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($40M, 12% of world imports), China ($38M) and the United Kingdom ($36M). World imports came to about $337M, 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 Compass the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901410 for Compass 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 compass in Brazil?
In Brazil, compass (HS 901410) is classified under NCM 9014.10.00.