Product classification
HS code for Phonograph: 8519.30
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus, turntables (record-decks).
Classification of phonograph under HS 8519.30
The classification of phonographs under HS code 8519.30 is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System. This specific code falls within Chapter 85, which encompasses electrical machinery and equipment, and more specifically, heading 8519, which is reserved for sound recording or reproducing apparatus. Subheading 8519.30 identifies turntables, also known as record-decks. These devices are characterized by their primary function of rotating a vinyl record or similar medium to allow a stylus to track the grooves and reproduce sound. The classification applies regardless of whether the unit is a standalone deck intended for connection to an external amplifier or a more integrated unit, provided it does not incorporate features that would move it to a different subheading. The technical distinction for 8519.30 often involves the absence of a built-in sound amplification system or speakers, focusing instead on the mechanical and electronic components required for record playback. Proper classification ensures that trade statistics accurately reflect the movement of consumer electronics and professional audio equipment across international borders.
- Covers
- Manual belt-drive turntables
- Direct-drive DJ turntables
- Automatic record players without integrated speakers
- High-fidelity (Hi-Fi) record decks
- Semi-automatic phonograph units
- Also under 8519.30
- Technics SL-1200GR
- Rega Planar 3
- Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB
- Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
- Denon DP-300F
Codes often confused with 8519.30
Common mistake. Phonographs are frequently confused with HS code 8519.81, which covers other sound reproducing apparatus using magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media, such as CD players or digital audio players. Another common error is using 8518, which is for loudspeakers and microphones, if the phonograph is part of a bundled system. Additionally, antique music boxes that do not use records are classified under 9208 rather than 8519.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851930 (the code used for phonograph), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851930 (the code used for phonograph) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 36% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% 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 851930, not only phonograph.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $105M 36% of world exports
- 2 Germany $21M 7.0% of world exports
- 3 United Kingdom $19M 6.6% of world exports
World total: $294M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $79M 20% of world imports
- 2 Saudi Arabia $40M 10% of world imports
- 3 Germany $38M 9.6% of world imports
World total: $391M 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 phonograph
Brazil classifies phonograph under NCM 8519.30.00: HS 8519.30 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about phonograph
What is the HS code for Phonograph?
The HS code for Phonograph is 851930 (Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; turntables (record-decks)). The primary HS code for a phonograph or turntable record-deck is 8519.30.
How do I classify Phonograph for customs?
Phonograph is classified under HS code 851930 — Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; turntables (record-decks). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include units with built-in speakers?
Generally, units with built-in speakers may be classified under 8519.81 depending on the specific regional tariff schedule, as 8519.30 is specifically for record-decks.
Which countries are the top exporters of phonograph (HS 851930)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851930 (the code used for phonograph) in UN Comtrade data were China ($105M, 36% of world exports), Germany ($21M) and the United Kingdom ($19M). World exports came to about $294M, 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 phonograph (HS 851930)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851930 (the code used for phonograph) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($79M, 20% of world imports), Saudi Arabia ($40M) and Germany ($38M). World imports came to about $391M, 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 Phonograph the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851930 for Phonograph 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 phonograph in Brazil?
In Brazil, phonograph (HS 851930) is classified under NCM 8519.30.00.