HS Code for Industrial drones
View full HS code detailsIndustrial drones with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) exceeding 150 kilograms are classified under HS code 8806.29. This classification was established in the 2022 updates to the Harmonized System to provide a dedicated heading (8806) for unmanned aircraft. Prior to this, drones were often classified as cameras or toys. Under the current nomenclature, drones are classified primarily by their weight and their intended use (carriage of passengers vs. remote control). Sub-heading 8806.29 covers "other" unmanned aircraft for remote-controlled flight that are not designed for carrying passengers and fall into the highest weight bracket. These are typically heavy-duty industrial machines used for large-scale agricultural spraying, heavy cargo transport in remote areas, or sophisticated geological surveying. The MTOW is the critical metric, defined as the weight of the aircraft at take-off, including fuel, batteries, and the maximum permissible payload.
Products Included
- Heavy-lift agricultural spraying drones (>150kg MTOW)
- Unmanned cargo delivery aircraft for industrial logistics
- Large-scale aerial mapping UAVs with heavy sensor suites
- Industrial inspection drones for offshore oil rigs (>150kg)
- Remote-controlled aircraft for high-altitude telecommunications relay
Common Misclassification
The most common misclassification involves drones of lower weights. Drones between 25kg and 150kg fall under 8806.24, while those between 7kg and 25kg fall under 8806.23. Another error is attempting to classify industrial drones as cameras under 8525.89; while they may carry cameras, the 2022 HS rules dictate that the aircraft itself takes precedence under 8806. Additionally, drones designed for recreational use (toys) are sometimes incorrectly placed here but should be evaluated against heading 9503 if they meet the criteria for toys.
FAQ
What is the HS code for industrial drones?
For industrial drones with a maximum take-off weight over 150kg, the HS code is 8806.29.
How is the weight calculated for this HS code?
The weight is the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW), which includes the drone, its power source, and its maximum rated payload.
Alternative HS Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Industrial drones?
The HS code for Industrial drones is 880629 (Unmanned aircraft; for remote-controlled flight only, for other than for carriage of passengers, with the maximum take-off weight of more than 150kg).
How do I classify Industrial drones for customs?
Industrial drones is classified under HS code 880629 — Unmanned aircraft; for remote-controlled flight only, for other than for carriage of passengers, with the maximum take-off weight of more than 150kg. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Industrial drones the same in all countries?
The base HS code 880629 for Industrial drones is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.