Product classification
HS code for Maps: 4905.90
Maps and hydrographic or similar charts, (printed other than in book form), including wall maps, topographical plans and similar.
Classification of maps under HS 4905.90
The classification of maps under HS code 490590 is determined by their physical format and primary function as cartographic representations. This specific subheading covers printed maps, hydrographic charts, and similar charts that are not presented in book form. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), products in this category must be printed and intended to provide geographical or topographical information. Unlike atlases or bound map books, these items are typically single sheets or folded sheets. The classification relies on the distinction between cartographic material and general printed matter; if the primary value is the map itself rather than accompanying text, it falls under 4905. This code specifically excludes globes and maps printed on materials other than paper or paperboard, such as textiles, which may be classified elsewhere depending on their constituent material.
- Covers
- Wall maps for educational or decorative use
- Road maps in sheet or folded format
- Hydrographic and maritime charts for navigation
- Topographical plans and surveys
- Geological maps and charts
- Aeronautical charts
- Also under 4905.90
- National Geographic Wall Maps
- Michelin Folded Maps
- Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps
- NOAA Nautical Charts
- Streetwise Maps
Codes often confused with 4905.90
Common mistake. Maps are frequently misclassified under HS code 490591, which is reserved specifically for maps, charts, and atlases in book form. Another common error is using HS code 491110 for maps used in advertising; however, if the item is primarily a map, 490590 takes precedence. Additionally, three-dimensional globes must be classified under 490510 rather than 490590.
Top exporters and importers of HS 490590 (the code used for maps), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 490590 (the code used for maps) in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 18% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the Netherlands, with 13% 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 490590, not only maps.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Italy $14M 18% of world exports
- 2 United Kingdom $10M 13% of world exports
- 3 Germany $8.2M 10% of world exports
World total: $81M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Netherlands $11M 13% of world imports
- 2 Germany $9.2M 11% of world imports
- 3 France $8.5M 10% of world imports
World total: $83M 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 maps
Brazil classifies maps under NCM 4905.90.00: HS 4905.90 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Questions about maps
What is the HS code for Maps?
The HS code for Maps is 490590 (Maps and hydrographic or similar charts; (printed other than in book form), including wall maps, topographical plans and similar). The HS code for printed maps and charts not in book form is 490590.
How do I classify Maps for customs?
Maps is classified under HS code 490590 — Maps and hydrographic or similar charts; (printed other than in book form), including wall maps, topographical plans and similar. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are digital maps classified under this code?
No, HS code 490590 applies only to printed physical maps. Digital maps provided on media or via software are classified under Chapter 85 or as services depending on the delivery method.
Which countries are the top exporters of maps (HS 490590)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 490590 (the code used for maps) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($14M, 18% of world exports), the United Kingdom ($10M) and Germany ($8.2M). World exports came to about $81M, 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 maps (HS 490590)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 490590 (the code used for maps) in UN Comtrade data were the Netherlands ($11M, 13% of world imports), Germany ($9.2M) and France ($8.5M). World imports came to about $83M, 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 Maps the same in all countries?
The base HS code 490590 for Maps 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 maps in Brazil?
In Brazil, maps (HS 490590) is classified under NCM 4905.90.00.