Product classification
HS code for VHS player: 8521.10
Video recording or reproducing apparatus, magnetic tape-type.
Classification of VHS player under HS 8521.10
A VHS player is classified under HS code 8521.10, which covers video recording or reproducing apparatus that utilizes magnetic tape. Despite the shift toward digital media, the Harmonized System maintains this specific category for legacy analog technology. The classification is based on the mechanism of the device, which uses a magnetic head to read or write signals onto a plastic tape coated with iron oxide. Heading 8521 is distinct from heading 8528 (monitors and projectors) and heading 8519 (sound recording apparatus). Even if the device is a "player only" (reproducing) or a "recorder" (VCR), it remains within 8521.10 as long as the medium is magnetic tape. This code is essential for customs to differentiate between older analog equipment and modern digital optical or solid-state devices.
- Covers
- VHS Video Cassette Recorders (VCRs)
- VHS-only players (reproduction only)
- Betamax video players and recorders
- S-VHS (Super VHS) recording equipment
- Professional U-matic tape players
- 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. VHS players are often confused with HS code 8521.90, which is the residual category for video apparatus using other media, such as DVDs, Blu-ray discs, or hard drives. Another common error is 8528.71, which covers satellite tuners or set-top boxes; while some VCRs contain tuners, their primary function as a tape recorder/player keeps them in 8521.10.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852110 (the code used for VHS player), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852110 (the code used for VHS player) 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 VHS player.
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 VHS player
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 VHS player
What is the HS code for VHS player?
The HS code for VHS player is 852110 (Video recording or reproducing apparatus; magnetic tape-type). The HS code for a VHS player or any magnetic tape-type video apparatus is 8521.10.
How do I classify VHS player for customs?
VHS player is classified under HS code 852110 — Video recording or reproducing apparatus; magnetic tape-type. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What if the device is a DVD/VHS combo unit?
Combo units are typically classified under 8521.90 because the digital (DVD) component is often considered the more modern or essential character of the device under GRI 3(b), though some jurisdictions may still apply 8521.10.
Which countries are the top exporters of VHS player (HS 852110)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852110 (the code used for VHS player) 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 VHS player (HS 852110)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852110 (the code used for VHS player) 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 VHS player the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852110 for VHS player 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 VHS player in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 852110 into 4 NCM codes, so the right one for VHS player 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).