Look up in the sky! its a … helicopter of an unladen weight not exceeding 998 kg
What is a classification?
HS classification is the process of determining a products place in the universal index of international trade. Proper classification is essential to compliance, but finding the true classification of a certain product can be challenging and sometimes absurd.
Drones pose an interesting challenge for classification since their end use can vary significantly — most rulings to date have focused on their end use (as either surveying equipment or videography) leading to a variety of different headings and duty rates. The admissibility in Canada as Transport Canada has yet to regulate such products at time of import. Perhaps even more interesting from a Customs perspective, is how cargo drones will be regulated when it comes to cross-border traffic!?
| Description | HS Code | Current Duty Rate | PGA Requirements* | Detail |
| Drone (UAV) | 8802.11.00.14 | 0% | n/a | Drones for carrying cargo are classified as mini-helicopters. We would place other drones — including hobby and racing drones — under this heading as well. |
| Video Drone | 8525.80.00.50 | 0% | n/a | Drones outfitted with video cameras — for which the principal purpose is taking video — will be classified as cameras. |
| Drone for Surveying | 9006.30.90.00 | 5% | n/a | Some specialized drones, such as those for aerial surveying, have been classified by the CBSA as surveying cameras. |
| Drone Propellers and other parts | 8803.10.00.00 | 0% | n/a | Parts for drones — excluding cameras — will be classified as parts of helicopters. |
*Note that the PGA requirements can vary depending on the country of origin, end use and state (dried, chilled, fresh) of the items you are importing. For more information, please contact us.
**Classifications are provided by Border Bee Customs Brokers as a reference guide for importers and should not be relied upon solely for commercial classification.