HS Code for Recorded DVD
Recorded DVDs are classified under HS code 8523.49, following the same logic as other optical storage media. They are optical media used for the storage of sound, video, or data. The Harmonized System groups these items based on the physical method of data retrieval. Since DVDs are read by an optical laser, they fall under the optical media category of heading 8523. The distinction between 8523.41 (blank) and 8523.49 (recorded) is critical for customs compliance. Heading 8523 is comprehensive for all modern storage media, and the subheadings are organized by technology type. Subheading 8523.49 is the specific destination for optical discs that have been finalized with data. This includes DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, and DVD-ROM formats. The classification remains the same regardless of the disc's storage capacity (e.g., DVD-5, DVD-9) or whether it is single-sided or double-sided. The essential character of the product is a digital storage medium that has been encoded with information, which is the definition of recorded optical media under the HS nomenclature.
Products Included
- DVD-Video discs (movies)
- DVD-Audio discs
- Recorded DVD-ROMs for computers
- Educational DVDs
- Video games on DVD media
Common Misclassification
Recorded DVDs are frequently misclassified under HS code 8523.41, which is only for blank media. Another common mistake is using HS code 8521.90, which is for video recording or reproducing apparatus (the players themselves), not the media. Furthermore, magnetic tapes containing video are classified under 8523.29, and should not be confused with optical DVDs. It is also important not to use Chapter 49 (printed matter) even if the DVD is part of a book set, as the disc itself is classified by its own physical properties.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Recorded DVD?
The HS code for a recorded DVD is 8523.49.
Is the HS code different for a DVD-ROM vs a DVD-Video?
No, both are classified under 8523.49 because they are both recorded optical media, regardless of whether the data is a movie or computer software.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Recorded DVD?
The HS code for Recorded DVD is 852349 (Optical media; recorded, excluding products of Chapter 37).
How do I classify Recorded DVD for customs?
Recorded DVD is classified under HS code 852349 — Optical media; recorded, excluding products of Chapter 37. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Recorded DVD the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852349 for Recorded DVD is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.