Product classification
HS code for GPS receiver: 8526.91
Radio navigational aid apparatus.
Classification of GPS receiver under HS 8526.91
GPS receivers are classified under HS code 8526.91 as radio navigational aid apparatus. This classification is based on the fundamental technology of the device, which utilizes radio signals from a network of satellites to determine the receiver's precise geographic location, altitude, and time. Chapter 85 covers electrical machinery and equipment, and heading 8526 is specifically dedicated to radar apparatus, radio navigational aid apparatus, and radio remote control apparatus. Since a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver functions as a passive radio receiver that processes navigational data, it is categorized under the subheading 8526.91. This applies to stand-alone units as well as modules intended for integration into other systems, provided the primary function of the component is radio navigation. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the device is used for maritime, aeronautical, or terrestrial navigation.
- Covers
- Handheld GPS units for hiking and outdoor use
- Stand-alone vehicle navigation systems
- Marine GPS chartplotters
- Aviation GPS receivers
- GPS modules for fleet tracking
- External GPS antennas with integrated receivers
- Also under 8526.91
- Garmin GPSMAP
- Trimble R12
- u-blox ZED-F9P
- Honeywell Primus Epic
- Furuno GP-170
Codes often confused with 8526.91
Common mistake. GPS receivers are frequently misclassified under HS code 8517.13 or 8517.14 if they are part of a smartphone, as the telecommunications function usually takes precedence. They are also sometimes confused with HS code 9014, which covers direction-finding compasses and other navigational instruments. However, 9014 is generally for non-radio based instruments, whereas 8526.91 specifically targets radio-based systems. Another error is using 8528 for units with large screens, but the navigational function of a GPS unit defines its classification over its display capabilities.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852691 (the code used for GPS receiver), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852691 (the code used for GPS receiver) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 14% 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 852691, not only GPS receiver.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $1.7B 14% of world exports
- 2 Poland $1.6B 14% of world exports
- 3 United States $776M 6.6% of world exports
World total: $11.8B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.6B 14% of world imports
- 2 China $1.5B 13% of world imports
- 3 Germany $1.1B 9.3% of world imports
World total: $11.9B 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 GPS receiver
Brazil classifies GPS receiver under NCM 8526.91.00: HS 8526.91 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about GPS receiver
What is the HS code for GPS receiver?
The HS code for GPS receiver is 852691 (Radio navigational aid apparatus). The standard HS code for a dedicated GPS receiver is 8526.91.
How do I classify GPS receiver for customs?
GPS receiver is classified under HS code 852691 — Radio navigational aid apparatus. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code apply to GPS trackers?
Yes, most GPS tracking devices that receive satellite signals for navigation or location logging are classified under 8526.91, though those with cellular transmission may sometimes be scrutinized under 8517.
Which countries are the top exporters of GPS receiver (HS 852691)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852691 (the code used for GPS receiver) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.7B, 14% of world exports), Poland ($1.6B) and the United States ($776M). World exports came to about $11.8B, 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 GPS receiver (HS 852691)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852691 (the code used for GPS receiver) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.6B, 14% of world imports), China ($1.5B) and Germany ($1.1B). World imports came to about $11.9B, 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 GPS receiver the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852691 for GPS receiver 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 GPS receiver in Brazil?
In Brazil, GPS receiver (HS 852691) is classified under NCM 8526.91.00.