Product classification
HS code for Turntable cartridge: 8522.10
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus, parts and accessories thereof, pick-up cartridges.
Classification of turntable cartridge under HS 8522.10
The turntable cartridge is classified under HS code 8522.10, which specifically identifies pick-up cartridges as parts and accessories for sound recording or reproducing apparatus. This classification is determined by General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is governed by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since the cartridge is an essential component that converts mechanical vibrations from a record groove into electrical signals, it is categorized under Chapter 85, covering electrical machinery and equipment. Specifically, heading 8522 is reserved for parts and accessories suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of headings 8519 to 8521. Because the pick-up cartridge is a distinct, specialized component for record players, it is assigned to the specific subheading 8522.10. This classification applies regardless of the internal technology used, whether moving magnet, moving coil, or ceramic, provided the device functions as a transducer for vinyl playback.
- Covers
- Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges
- Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
- Ceramic and crystal pick-up cartridges
- Integrated headshell and cartridge assemblies
- Replacement stylus assemblies when sold as part of the cartridge body
- Mono and stereo phono cartridges
- Also under 8522.10
- Ortofon 2M Red cartridge
- Shure M44-7 stylus
- Rega Planar 3 belt
- Audio-Technica AT-VM95E cartridge
- Technics SL-1200 dust cover
Codes often confused with 8522.10
Common mistake. A frequent error involves classifying cartridges under HS code 8519, which is the code for the entire turntable or record player. While the cartridge is a part of the turntable, parts must be classified under 8522. Another common mistake is using HS code 8518, which covers microphones and loudspeakers. Although these are also electro-acoustic transducers, the specific mention of "pick-up cartridges" in 8522.10 takes precedence over the general descriptions in 8518. Additionally, media such as vinyl records themselves fall under 8523, which should never be confused with the hardware used to play them.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852210 (the code used for turntable cartridge), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852210 (the code used for turntable cartridge) in UN Comtrade data was Denmark, with 34% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 17% 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 852210, not only turntable cartridge.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Denmark $19M 34% of world exports
- 2 Japan $11M 20% of world exports
- 3 China $4.5M 8.0% of world exports
World total: $57M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $8.2M 17% of world imports
- 2 United States $5.9M 12% of world imports
- 3 China $4.4M 8.8% of world imports
World total: $50M 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 turntable cartridge
Brazil classifies turntable cartridge under NCM 8522.10.00: HS 8522.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about turntable cartridge
What is the HS code for Turntable cartridge?
The HS code for Turntable cartridge is 852210 (Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; parts and accessories thereof, pick-up cartridges). The specific HS code for a turntable pick-up cartridge is 8522.10.
How do I classify Turntable cartridge for customs?
Turntable cartridge is classified under HS code 852210 — Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; parts and accessories thereof, pick-up cartridges. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the needle or stylus?
Yes, if the stylus is imported as part of the cartridge assembly, it falls under 8522.10. However, individual replacement needles may sometimes be classified under 8522.90 depending on local customs interpretations of parts.
Which countries are the top exporters of turntable cartridge (HS 852210)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852210 (the code used for turntable cartridge) in UN Comtrade data were Denmark ($19M, 34% of world exports), Japan ($11M) and China ($4.5M). World exports came to about $57M, 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 turntable cartridge (HS 852210)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852210 (the code used for turntable cartridge) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($8.2M, 17% of world imports), the United States ($5.9M) and China ($4.4M). World imports came to about $50M, 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 Turntable cartridge the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852210 for Turntable cartridge 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 turntable cartridge in Brazil?
In Brazil, turntable cartridge (HS 852210) is classified under NCM 8522.10.00.