HS code for action camera
The U.S. HS code for an action camera is usually 8525.89.50.30 (waterproof), with no general duty and an estimated total of 12.5% from China and 12.5% from Vietnam once additional duties are added.
Estimates use tariff data as of October 22, 2026. The China and Vietnam estimates include Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%). From China, Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply, up to 37.5% in total. Classifications and duty estimates are guidance based on the published HTSUS. The importer of record is responsible for the final classification.
Codes by variant
| Variant | HTS code | General duty | Est. from China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | 8525.89.50.30 | Free | 12.5% |
- 8525.89.50.30: Television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders / Camcorders
What decides the code
A waterproof action camera is a digital video camera recorder classified under 8525.89.50.30, within heading 8525 for television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders.
- The camera records video digitally, which places it in heading 8525 as a digital camera or video camera recorder.
- It is a video camera recorder rather than a still digital camera, which leads to subheading 8525.89.
- Waterproof construction does not create a separate heading, so the camera stays in 8525.89.50.30.
Common mistakes
- Classifying the action camera under 8525.89.30 as a still digital camera is wrong because the product records video.
- Putting the camera in heading 9006 for photographic cameras is wrong because heading 8525 covers digital cameras and video camera recorders.
- Treating the waterproof housing as a separate case under heading 4202 is wrong because the camera itself is the classified article.
Estimated U.S. duty by origin
- China
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor actionMay also apply: Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%). Up to 37.5%.
- Vietnam
- 12.5% = Free general + 12.5% Section 301: Forced labor action
For HTS 8525.89.50.30, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Waterproof
- CN 8525 89 00, Free
EU Combined Nomenclature 2026, third-country (erga omnes) duty. Preferential rates and EU trade remedy duties are not included.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HS code for an action camera?
The U.S. HTS code for an action camera is usually 8525.89.50.30 (waterproof). The first six digits, 8525.89, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on an action camera from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 8525.89.50.30 is Free. With the additional duties that apply to goods of China (Section 301: Forced labor action (12.5%)), the estimated total is 12.5% of customs value. Section 301: China list duty (7.5% or 25%) may also apply depending on the exact product. From Vietnam the estimate is 12.5%. Tariff data as of October 22, 2026.
Tariff schedule pages
- 8525.89.50.30Television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders / Camcorders
- Heading 8525Transmission apparatus for radio-broadcasting or television, whether or not incorporating reception apparatus or sound recording or reproducing apparatus; television cameras, digital cameras and video camera recorders
Related products
Codes checked against the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule retrieved October 22, 2026. Additional duties reviewed October 22, 2026. This is an estimate: the importer of record is responsible for classification.