Product classification
HS code for Directional compass: 9014.10
Navigational instruments and appliances, direction finding compasses.
Classification of directional compass under HS 9014.10
Directional compasses are classified within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System, which covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Heading 9014 specifically addresses direction-finding compasses and other navigational instruments and appliances. The subheading 9014.10 is the most specific classification for any instrument designed to determine direction relative to the Earth's magnetic poles or geographic poles. This includes traditional magnetic compasses, gyro-compasses, and modern electronic versions used in maritime, aeronautical, or land navigation. The classification is based on the instrument's primary function of navigation and direction-finding. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, this heading includes compasses of all types, from simple pocket versions used by hikers to complex binnacle-mounted units used on large commercial vessels. The rule of specificity (GIR 3a) ensures that because 9014.10 specifically names "direction finding compasses," it takes precedence over more general headings for electrical or measuring equipment.
- Covers
- Magnetic liquid-filled compasses
- Gyro-compasses for maritime use
- Electronic digital compasses
- Binnacle compasses
- Pocket or hand-held orienteering compasses
- Position-finding 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. Directional compasses are often misclassified under 9014.20, which is reserved for instruments and appliances for aeronautical or space navigation (other than compasses). Another common error is using 8526.91 for GPS receivers; while a GPS provides direction, it is a radio-navigation tool, whereas 9014.10 is for the compass instrument itself. Furthermore, simple toy compasses might be incorrectly placed in 9503.00, but if they are functional instruments, 9014.10 is required.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901410 (the code used for directional compass), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901410 (the code used for directional 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 directional 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 directional compass
Brazil classifies directional 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 directional compass
What is the HS code for Directional compass?
The HS code for Directional compass is 901410 (Navigational instruments and appliances; direction finding compasses). The HS code for a directional compass is 9014.10.
How do I classify Directional compass for customs?
Directional compass is classified under HS code 901410 — Navigational instruments and appliances; direction finding compasses. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are digital compasses in smartphones classified here?
No, digital compasses integrated into smartphones are classified as part of the phone under 8517.13, as the compass is a secondary component of the multi-functional device.
Which countries are the top exporters of directional compass (HS 901410)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901410 (the code used for directional 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 directional compass (HS 901410)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901410 (the code used for directional 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 Directional compass the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901410 for Directional 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 directional compass in Brazil?
In Brazil, directional compass (HS 901410) is classified under NCM 9014.10.00.