HS code for compass
The U.S. HS code for a compass is usually 9014.10.90.00 (hiking), 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiking | 9014.10.90.00 | Free | 12.5% |
- 9014.10.90.00: Direction finding compasses / Other
What decides the code
A compass is a direction finding instrument classified under heading 9014, and the hiking variant falls to 9014.10.90.00 as an other direction finding compass.
- A compass is a direction finding instrument, so it falls under heading 9014 rather than under measuring or optical headings.
- Within heading 9014, direction finding compasses take subheading 9014.10, which covers the compass itself and not parts.
- The hiking compass is not a gyroscopic or marine steering compass, so it lands in the residual 9014.10.90.00 line.
Common mistakes
- Classifying a compass under 9025 as a hydrometer, thermometer or similar measuring instrument is wrong because 9025 does not cover direction finding.
- Putting a compass in 9031 as another measuring or checking appliance is wrong because heading 9014 specifically names direction finding compasses.
- Classifying a compass under 9105 as a clock or timepiece is wrong because it does not measure time.
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 9014.10.90.00, as a share of customs value, before fees. Check every measure for your entry with the tariff checker.
EU code and duty
- Hiking
- CN 9014 10 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 a compass?
The U.S. HTS code for a compass is usually 9014.10.90.00 (hiking). The first six digits, 9014.10, are the international HS code.
What is the U.S. import duty on a compass from China?
The U.S. general duty on HTS 9014.10.90.00 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
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.