Product classification
HS code for Theodolite: 9015.20
Surveying equipment, theodolites and tachymeters (tacheometers).
Classification of theodolite under HS 9015.20
Theodolites and tachymeters (also known as tacheometers) are precision surveying instruments classified under HS code 9015.20. This classification falls within Chapter 90, which encompasses optical, measuring, and checking instruments. Heading 9015 specifically covers instruments used in surveying, hydrography, oceanography, hydrology, meteorology, or geophysics. Theodolites are used to measure horizontal and vertical angles, while tachymeters are specialized theodolites designed to measure distances electronically or optically in addition to angles. The classification under 9015.20 is determined by the primary function of the device as a surveying tool. Even if the instrument incorporates advanced electronic components, digital displays, or laser pointers, it remains classified here as long as its essential character is that of a theodolite or tachymeter. This classification is vital for the global trade of construction and engineering equipment.
- Covers
- Optical theodolites
- Electronic digital theodolites
- Tachymeters (tacheometers)
- Transit theodolites
- Robotic theodolites for automated surveying
- Laser theodolites
- Also under 9015.20
- Leica Geosystems Total Stations
- Trimble S-Series
- Topcon GT Series
- Sokkia iX Series
- GeoMax Zoom Series
Codes often confused with 9015.20
Common mistake. Theodolites are often misclassified under 9015.80 (other surveying instruments) or 9015.10 (rangefinders). If a theodolite is integrated into a Total Station that includes an Electronic Distance Meter (EDM), it is still frequently classified under 9015.20, though some jurisdictions may prefer 9015.80 depending on the primary feature set.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901520 (the code used for theodolite), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901520 (the code used for theodolite) in UN Comtrade data was Switzerland, with 32% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 16% 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 901520, not only theodolite.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Switzerland $270M 32% of world exports
- 2 Singapore $159M 19% of world exports
- 3 Germany $158M 19% of world exports
World total: $838M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $115M 16% of world imports
- 2 United States $81M 11% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $62M 8.7% of world imports
World total: $714M 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 codes for theodolite
Brazil splits HS 9015.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 9015.20.10Theodolites and tachymeters, 1 arcsecond reading
- 9015.20.90Other theodolites and tachymeters
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about theodolite
What is the HS code for Theodolite?
The HS code for Theodolite is 901520 (Surveying equipment; theodolites and tachymeters (tacheometers)). The standard HS code for a theodolite is 9015.20.
How do I classify Theodolite for customs?
Theodolite is classified under HS code 901520 — Surveying equipment; theodolites and tachymeters (tacheometers). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are tripods for theodolites classified under this code?
No, tripods are generally classified as parts and accessories under HS code 9015.90, or under 9620.00 if they are multi-purpose monopods/tripods.
Which countries are the top exporters of theodolite (HS 901520)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901520 (the code used for theodolite) in UN Comtrade data were Switzerland ($270M, 32% of world exports), Singapore ($159M) and Germany ($158M). World exports came to about $838M, 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 theodolite (HS 901520)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901520 (the code used for theodolite) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($115M, 16% of world imports), the United States ($81M) and the United Kingdom ($62M). World imports came to about $714M, 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 Theodolite the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901520 for Theodolite 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 theodolite in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 901520 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for theodolite depends on the product's details: 9015.20.10 (Theodolites and tachymeters, 1 arcsecond reading), 9015.20.90 (Other theodolites and tachymeters).