Product classification
HS code for Satellites: 8802.60
Spacecraft, (including satellites) and suborbital and spacecraft launch vehicles.
Classification of satellites under HS 8802.60
Satellites and related space-faring equipment are classified under HS code 8802.60. This specific heading is designated for spacecraft, which includes satellites, as well as suborbital and spacecraft launch vehicles. The classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically focusing on the primary function of the product as a vehicle designed for operation beyond the Earth's atmosphere. Unlike terrestrial vehicles or aircraft that rely on aerodynamic lift, satellites are engineered for orbital mechanics. The legal notes for Section XVII and Chapter 88 clarify that this code encompasses the entire spacecraft assembly, including its integrated propulsion systems, scientific instruments, and communication arrays, provided they are imported as a complete unit. The complexity of these machines requires a classification that recognizes their unique operational environment, distinguishing them from standard aeronautical equipment found in other subheadings of 8802.
- Covers
- Communication satellites for television and internet broadcasting
- Weather and meteorological observation satellites
- Scientific research satellites and space telescopes
- Global Positioning System (GPS) and navigational satellites
- Suborbital launch vehicles and reusable spacecraft modules
- Also under 8802.60
- SpaceX Falcon 9
- Ariane 5
- International Space Station modules
- Hubble Space Telescope
- Starlink satellites
- GPS III satellites
Codes often confused with 8802.60
Common mistake. One of the most frequent misclassifications involves HS code 8517, which covers telecommunications apparatus. While the primary purpose of many satellites is communication, the physical vehicle is classified under 8802.60. Another common error is using HS code 8526, which pertains to radar and radio navigational aid apparatus. If a shipment consists only of a radar unit intended for a satellite, 8526 might be appropriate, but the satellite itself remains under 8802.60. Additionally, parts of satellites are often confused with 8803, though many parts are now classified under 8807 following recent HS updates.
Top exporters and importers of HS 880260 (the code used for satellites), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 880260 (the code used for satellites) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 31% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Luxembourg, with 48% of world imports. The United States reports $152.8B of its chapter 88 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 880260, not only satellites.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $1.1B 31% of world exports
- 2 France $1.0B 28% of world exports
- 3 Italy $443M 12% of world exports
The United States reports $152.8B of its chapter 88 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
World total: $3.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Luxembourg $386M 48% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$326M 40% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 India $24M 2.9% of world imports
World total: $811M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 satellites
Brazil classifies satellites under NCM 8802.60.00: HS 8802.60 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about satellites
What is the HS code for Satellites?
The HS code for Satellites is 880260 (Spacecraft; (including satellites) and suborbital and spacecraft launch vehicles). The primary HS code for satellites, including communication and scientific types, is 8802.60.
How do I classify Satellites for customs?
Satellites is classified under HS code 880260 — Spacecraft; (including satellites) and suborbital and spacecraft launch vehicles. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are satellite launch vehicles classified differently?
No, spacecraft launch vehicles are also classified under HS code 8802.60 as they are considered part of the spacecraft and suborbital vehicle category.
Which countries are the top exporters of satellites (HS 880260)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 880260 (the code used for satellites) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($1.1B, 31% of world exports), France ($1.0B) and Italy ($443M). World exports came to about $3.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). The United States reports $152.8B of its chapter 88 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Which countries are the top importers of satellites (HS 880260)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 880260 (the code used for satellites) in UN Comtrade data were Luxembourg ($386M, 48% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $326M) and India ($24M). World imports came to about $811M, 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 Satellites the same in all countries?
The base HS code 880260 for Satellites 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 satellites in Brazil?
In Brazil, satellites (HS 880260) is classified under NCM 8802.60.00.