Product classification
HS code for VCR: 8521.10
Video recording or reproducing apparatus, magnetic tape-type.
Classification of VCR under HS 8521.10
HS code 8521.10 applies to video recording or reproducing apparatus that utilizes magnetic tape as the storage medium. Although VCR technology is largely legacy, the Harmonized System maintains specific codes for magnetic tape-type devices. Classification is driven by the primary function of the device: the ability to record video signals onto a tape or play back recorded video from a tape. This distinguishes it from purely audio recording equipment (Heading 8519) and from video apparatus that uses solid-state media, optical discs, or hard drives (Heading 8521.90). The classification follows GRI 1, as the heading text specifically names video recording or reproducing apparatus. Even if the device is a \"combo\" unit (e.g., a VCR/DVD player), it may still fall under this heading or 8521.90 depending on the principal function or the specific rules for composite machines under Section XVI, Note 3. For customs purposes, the presence of a magnetic tape transport mechanism is the deciding factor for 8521.10. This code covers both consumer-grade equipment and professional broadcasting decks that use tape formats.
- Covers
- VHS (Video Home System) players and recorders
- Betamax video cassette recorders
- Professional U-matic or Betacam tape decks
- MiniDV camcorder decks (when used as standalone players)
- S-VHS recording equipment
- Also under 8521.10
- Panasonic AG-DVX100B (MiniDV camcorder)
- Sony Betacam SP VTR
- JVC HR-S9911U S-VHS VCR
- Canon XL2 (MiniDV camcorder)
- Sony SLV-N700 VHS VCR
Codes often confused with 8521.10
Common mistake. The most common misclassification is 8521.90, which covers video recording apparatus using media other than magnetic tape, such as DVD, Blu-ray, or internal hard drives. Another error is 8519, which is strictly for sound recording or reproducing apparatus. If the device is a television with a built-in VCR, it should be classified under 8528.72 as a television receiver, following the rule that the television function usually provides the essential character.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852110 (the code used for VCR), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852110 (the code used for VCR) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 49% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the Netherlands, 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 852110, not only VCR.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $19M 49% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $5.9M 16% of world exports
- 3 United Kingdom $2.3M 6.1% of world exports
World total: $38M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Netherlands $6.4M 17% of world imports
- 2 Saudi Arabia $5.2M 14% of world imports
- 3 India $3.3M 8.7% of world imports
World total: $37M 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 VCR
Brazil splits HS 8521.10 into 4 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8521.10.10Video tape recorder-players without tuner
- 8521.10.81Video cassette apparatus, 12.65 mm (1/2 in) tape
- 8521.10.89Other video tape apparatus, tape under 19.05 mm
- 8521.10.90Video tape apparatus, tape 19.05 mm or wider
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about VCR
What is the HS code for VCR?
The HS code for VCR is 852110 (Video recording or reproducing apparatus; magnetic tape-type). The HS code for a video cassette recorder (VCR) using magnetic tape is 8521.10.
How do I classify VCR for customs?
VCR is classified under HS code 852110 — Video recording or reproducing apparatus; magnetic tape-type. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are DVD players classified under this code?
No, DVD players do not use magnetic tape and are therefore classified under HS code 8521.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of VCR (HS 852110)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852110 (the code used for VCR) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($19M, 49% of world exports), the Netherlands ($5.9M) and the United Kingdom ($2.3M). World exports came to about $38M, 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 VCR (HS 852110)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852110 (the code used for VCR) in UN Comtrade data were the Netherlands ($6.4M, 17% of world imports), Saudi Arabia ($5.2M) and India ($3.3M). World imports came to about $37M, 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 VCR the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852110 for VCR 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 VCR in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 852110 into 4 NCM codes, so the right one for VCR depends on the product's details: 8521.10.10 (Video tape recorder-players without tuner), 8521.10.81 (Video cassette apparatus, 12.65 mm (1/2 in) tape), 8521.10.89 (Other video tape apparatus, tape under 19.05 mm), 8521.10.90 (Video tape apparatus, tape 19.05 mm or wider).