Product classification
HS code for Navigational radio: 8526.91
Radio navigational aid apparatus.
Classification of navigational radio under HS 8526.91
HS code 8526.91 is specifically designated for radio navigational aid apparatus. This classification is determined by the primary function of the device, which must utilize the properties of radio waves to determine a position, provide direction, or assist in the navigation of aircraft, ships, or land vehicles. Unlike standard telecommunication equipment, these devices are specifically engineered to interact with satellite constellations or ground-based beacons to provide spatial data. The General Interpretative Rules (GIR) dictate that products are classified based on their technical characteristics and intended use. For 8526.91, the apparatus must be "radio-based," excluding purely optical or acoustic navigational tools. This code covers a wide range of sophisticated electronics used in the maritime and aviation sectors. The classification logic follows the principle that the device's essential character is defined by its ability to process radio signals for the purpose of guidance. This includes both the receivers that interpret signals from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and the ground-based transmitters that provide localized navigational data. It is important to distinguish these from simple radio receivers used for entertainment or two-way communication, which fall under different headings in Chapter 85. Furthermore, the apparatus must be a finished good or a functional unit as defined by Section XVI Note 4. If the device is integrated into a larger system, such as a vehicle's dashboard, its classification may depend on whether it remains a distinct functional entity.
- Covers
- GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers
- LORAN-C (Long Range Navigation) equipment
- Radio beacons and radio buoy transmitters
- VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) receivers
- ILS (Instrument Landing Systems) components
- GLONASS and Galileo satellite 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. This code is frequently confused with 8526.10, which is reserved for radar apparatus. While both use radio waves, radar is used for detection and ranging of objects, whereas 8526.91 is for navigation. Another common error is using 8526.92, which is for radio remote control apparatus. Additionally, standard radio receivers for broadcasting are classified under 8527, and pure transmission apparatus without navigational functions falls under 8525.60.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852691 (the code used for navigational radio), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852691 (the code used for navigational radio) 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 navigational radio.
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 navigational radio
Brazil classifies navigational radio 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 navigational radio
What is the HS code for Navigational radio?
The HS code for Navigational radio is 852691 (Radio navigational aid apparatus). The primary HS code for radio navigational aid apparatus is 8526.91.
How do I classify Navigational radio for customs?
Navigational radio is classified under HS code 852691 — Radio navigational aid apparatus. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include handheld GPS units?
Yes, handheld GPS units designed for navigation are classified under 8526.91 as they function as radio navigational aid apparatus.
Which countries are the top exporters of navigational radio (HS 852691)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852691 (the code used for navigational radio) 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 navigational radio (HS 852691)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852691 (the code used for navigational radio) 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 Navigational radio the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852691 for Navigational radio 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 navigational radio in Brazil?
In Brazil, navigational radio (HS 852691) is classified under NCM 8526.91.00.