HS Code for Magnetic tape
Magnetic tape is classified under HS code 8523.29. This falls under Chapter 85 and heading 85.23, which covers various types of media for recording sound or other phenomena. While 8523.21 is reserved for magnetic stripe cards, 8523.29 is the "other" category for magnetic media, which primarily includes magnetic tapes. These tapes consist of a thin, magnetizable coating on a long, narrow strip of plastic film. This classification covers a broad spectrum of products, ranging from consumer-level audio and video cassettes (like VHS or Betamax) to professional-grade reel-to-reel tapes and high-capacity digital data backup tapes such as LTO (Linear Tape-Open) cartridges. The classification remains the same regardless of whether the tape is unrecorded or contains pre-recorded content, such as music, movies, or software. The logic of the Harmonized System groups these items together because they share the same underlying storage technology: magnetic particles on a flexible substrate. Even as optical and solid-state storage have become more prevalent, magnetic tape remains a critical medium for long-term data archiving due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. The classification is determined by the physical format (tape) and the magnetic recording method, distinguishing it from discs or solid-state non-volatile storage devices.
Products Included
- LTO (Linear Tape-Open) data cartridges
- Audio cassette tapes (recorded or blank)
- VHS and Betamax video tapes
- Reel-to-reel magnetic recording tapes
- DLT (Digital Linear Tape) cartridges
Common Misclassification
Magnetic tape is sometimes confused with magnetic stripe cards (8523.21) or optical media like DVDs and CDs (8523.41/8523.49). It is also occasionally misclassified under 3920.99 as simple plastic film if the magnetic coating is not recognized as the primary functional component for data storage.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Magnetic tape?
The HS code for magnetic tape, including both audio/video cassettes and data backup tapes, is 8523.29.
Are recorded music tapes classified differently than blank tapes?
No, under the current Harmonized System structure, both recorded and unrecorded magnetic tapes are classified under the same subheading, 8523.29.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Magnetic tape?
The HS code for Magnetic tape is 852329 (Magnetic media; other than cards incorporating a magnetic stripe, whether or not recorded, excluding products of Chapter 37).
How do I classify Magnetic tape for customs?
Magnetic tape is classified under HS code 852329 — Magnetic media; other than cards incorporating a magnetic stripe, whether or not recorded, excluding products of Chapter 37. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Magnetic tape the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852329 for Magnetic tape is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.