Product classification
HS code for Laser rangefinder: 9015.10
Rangefinders.
Classification of laser rangefinder under HS 9015.10
Laser rangefinders are classified under HS code 9015.10, which specifically covers rangefinders used in surveying, hydrography, and general distance measurement. This classification is determined by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1, which states that classification is governed by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Heading 9015 encompasses instruments and appliances used in surveying, meteorology, or geophysics. Since a laser rangefinder functions by emitting a laser beam to determine the distance to an object through time-of-flight or phase-shift analysis, it is considered a precision measuring instrument. Even if the device is marketed for recreational activities like golf or hunting, its technical function as a distance-measuring tool keeps it within Chapter 90. The inclusion of electronic components or digital displays does not shift the classification to Chapter 85 (electrical machinery) because the primary character of the device is an optical and metrological instrument. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System further clarify that rangefinders of all types, including those using optical or electronic means, fall under this specific subheading.
- Covers
- Handheld laser distance meters for construction
- Laser rangefinders for hunting and sports
- Surveying-grade laser rangefinders
- Binoculars with integrated laser rangefinding capabilities
- Industrial laser sensors for distance measurement
- Also under 9015.10
- Leica Disto
- Bushnell Golf
- Nikon Aculon
- Vortex Optics Ranger
- Sig Sauer Kilo
Codes often confused with 9015.10
Common mistake. Laser rangefinders are frequently misclassified under HS code 9013.10, which covers telescopic sights for fitting to arms. While some rangefinders are used in hunting, they are distinct from sights that provide magnification for aiming. Another common error is using HS code 9031.80, which is a residual category for other measuring or checking instruments. However, because 9015.10 specifically names 'rangefinders,' it takes precedence over the more general heading 9031 according to the principle of specificity in GRI 3(a).
Top exporters and importers of HS 901510 (the code used for laser rangefinder), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901510 (the code used for laser rangefinder) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 40% 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 901510, not only laser rangefinder.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $669M 29% of world exports
- 2 Vietnam* ~$366M 16% of world exports · partner records ↗
- 3 Hong Kong $346M 15% of world exports
World total: $2.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $993M 40% of world imports
- 2 United States $346M 14% of world imports
- 3 Hong Kong $275M 11% of world imports
World total: $2.5B 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 laser rangefinder
Brazil classifies laser rangefinder under NCM 9015.10.00: HS 9015.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about laser rangefinder
What is the HS code for Laser rangefinder?
The HS code for Laser rangefinder is 901510 (Rangefinders). The primary HS code for a laser rangefinder is 9015.10, which covers rangefinders used for surveying and general distance measurement.
How do I classify Laser rangefinder for customs?
Laser rangefinder is classified under HS code 901510 — Rangefinders. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does the rangefinder's accuracy affect its HS code?
No, the level of accuracy or the intended end-use (professional surveying vs. hobbyist) does not change the 9015.10 classification, provided the device's primary function is rangefinding.
Which countries are the top exporters of laser rangefinder (HS 901510)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901510 (the code used for laser rangefinder) in UN Comtrade data were China ($669M, 29% of world exports), Vietnam (about $366M) and Hong Kong ($346M). World exports came to about $2.3B, 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 laser rangefinder (HS 901510)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901510 (the code used for laser rangefinder) in UN Comtrade data were China ($993M, 40% of world imports), the United States ($346M) and Hong Kong ($275M). World imports came to about $2.5B, 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 Laser rangefinder the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901510 for Laser rangefinder 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 laser rangefinder in Brazil?
In Brazil, laser rangefinder (HS 901510) is classified under NCM 9015.10.00.