HS-code queries are high-intent and citation-sparse — buyers ask "what HS code is a cobot" and get scattered forum guesses. Here is a structured, track-by-track map, every heading carrying the official lookup tool so you can verify it. Remember: only your destination customs authority issues a binding ruling, often via a Binding Tariff Information (BTI/EU) or ruling request (US CBP).
HS codes by robot track
| Track | Likely HS heading | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| 6-axis industrial arm | 8479.50 | Industrial robots, not elsewhere specified or included |
| Collaborative robot (cobot) | 8479.50 | Same heading as industrial arms by function |
| SCARA | 8479.50 | Articulated industrial robot family |
| Warehouse AMR (self-propelled) | 8427.xx / 8428.70 | Works trucks / mechanical handling, by drive + function |
| Full-size humanoid | 8479.50 (often) | Frequently NESOI machine; can vary by configuration |
| Embodied AI platform | Case-by-case | Depends on dominant function; seek a ruling |
The split that catches importers is arm vs mobile base. A fixed articulated arm reads as an industrial robot (8479.50); a self-propelled mobile platform that moves goods reads as a works truck / mechanical-handling unit (8427/8428). An AMR with a mounted arm can be argued either way — exactly the case where a binding ruling pays for itself. Per the China Robot Price Index, Q3 2026, the cobot and 6-axis tracks (the two largest public catalog groups) overwhelmingly land in 8479.50, while the AMR track is the one most likely to be reclassified at the border.
Where to verify, by region
| Region | Tool | Binding ruling route |
|---|---|---|
| EU | TARIC | Binding Tariff Information (BTI) |
| UK | UK Trade Tariff | Advance Tariff Ruling |
| US | USITC HTS | CBP ruling (eRulings) |
| Global reference | WCO Harmonized System | National authority governs |
FAQ
What HS code is a collaborative robot?
Cobots most commonly classify near HS 8479.50 ("industrial robots, not elsewhere specified"), the same heading as 6-axis industrial arms, because the HS distinguishes by function rather than by the "collaborative" marketing label. Confirm via TARIC / UK Trade Tariff / USITC HTS; only your customs authority rules bindingly.
What HS code is a warehouse AMR?
Self-propelled autonomous mobile robots that move goods typically fall under HS 8427 (works trucks) or 8428.70 (mechanical handling), not 8479.50, because they are mobile materials-handling equipment. An AMR with a mounted manipulator is genuinely ambiguous — request a binding ruling.
Can I rely on the seller's stated HS code?
No. The seller's code is a convenience, not a determination, and the importer of record carries the liability for a misclassification. Get the classification confirmed against your own authority's schedule, ideally with a binding ruling for high-value or ambiguous units.
Headings are indicative and drawn from the WCO Harmonized System as implemented in EU TARIC, the UK Trade Tariff and the USITC HTS, cross-referenced with the China Robot Price Index, Q3 2026 track taxonomy. Not legal or customs advice.