HS Code for Recorded Blu-ray disc

Recorded Blu-ray discs fall under HS code 8523.49. Heading 8523 encompasses discs, tapes, solid-state non-volatile storage devices, "smart cards," and other media for the recording of sound or of other phenomena, whether or not recorded. The classification is split between magnetic media, optical media, and semiconductor media. Blu-ray technology uses optical lasers to read data, placing it in the optical media sub-group (8523.4x). Because the disc contains pre-recorded data—such as a film, software, or music—it is classified under 8523.49, which covers "other" optical media that is not unrecorded. This classification is determined by the physical nature of the media (optical) and its state (recorded). Under GRI 1, the terms of the headings are the primary authority. Since 8523 specifically mentions media for the recording of sound or other phenomena, and 8523.49 is the specific catch-all for recorded optical media, it is the correct designation for all Blu-ray formats containing data. This applies to high-definition movies, video games distributed on Blu-ray, and software installation discs.

Products Included

• Blu-ray movie discs
• Blu-ray audio discs
• Recorded Blu-ray software discs
• PlayStation or Xbox games on Blu-ray media
• Data backups stored on Blu-ray discs

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is HS code 8523.41, which is reserved for unrecorded (blank) optical media. Importers must distinguish between blank discs and those containing data. Another error is attempting to classify recorded movies under HS code 3706, which is for cinematographic film. However, 3706 only applies to traditional photographic film with an image, not digital optical media. Additionally, some may confuse these with magnetic media under 8523.29, but Blu-ray is strictly optical.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Recorded Blu-ray disc?

The HS code for a recorded Blu-ray disc is 8523.49.

Does the content of the Blu-ray change the HS code?

Generally, no. Whether it contains a movie, music, or software, it remains 8523.49 as long as it is a recorded optical disc. However, some countries may have specific sub-divisions for software.