Product classification
HS code for Air filter: 8421.31
Machinery, intake air filters for internal combustion engines.
Classification of air filter under HS 8421.31
Air filters specifically designed as intake air filters for internal combustion engines are classified under HS code 842131. This classification is precise, focusing on filters that are integral components of an engine's air intake system, responsible for removing particulate matter from the air before it enters the engine's combustion chambers. The primary function is to protect the engine from abrasive contaminants, thereby extending its lifespan and maintaining optimal performance. The "internal combustion engines" aspect is critical, differentiating these filters from general-purpose air filters or filters used in other machinery. This specific subheading within Chapter 84, which covers centrifuges, filtering or purifying machinery, ensures that these essential engine components are accurately categorized based on their specialized application and design.
- Covers
- Automotive engine air filters
- Motorcycle engine air filters
- Heavy-duty truck engine air filters
- Marine engine air filters
- Generator engine air filters
- Agricultural machinery engine air filters
- Construction equipment engine air filters
- Also under 8421.31
- K&N performance air filters
- Donaldson heavy-duty air filters
- Mahle air filters
- Purolator air filters
Codes often confused with 8421.31
Common mistake. Intake air filters for internal combustion engines (842131) are often confused with other types of filters. For example, air filters for air conditioning systems or ventilation units would typically be classified under HS code 842139 (Other filtering or purifying machinery and apparatus for gases, n.e.c.). Similarly, oil filters (842123) or fuel filters (842129) for internal combustion engines, while also engine components, fall under different subheadings because they filter liquids, not air. The key distinction for 842131 is its specific application as an "intake air filter" and its dedicated use "for internal combustion engines." Filters for industrial air purification or dust collection systems would also be classified elsewhere, usually under 842139.
Top exporters and importers of HS 842131 (the code used for air filter), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 842131 (the code used for air filter) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 15% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 13% 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 842131, not only air filter.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $720M 15% of world exports
- 2 United States $680M 14% of world exports
- 3 China $678M 14% of world exports
World total: $4.8B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $636M 13% of world imports
- 2 Germany $365M 7.2% of world imports
- 3 Canada $273M 5.4% of world imports
World total: $5.1B 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 code for air filter
Brazil classifies air filter under NCM 8421.31.00: HS 8421.31 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about air filter
What is the HS code for Air filter?
The HS code for Air filter is 842131 (Machinery; intake air filters for internal combustion engines). The HS code for intake air filters specifically designed for internal combustion engines is 842131.
How do I classify Air filter for customs?
Air filter is classified under HS code 842131 — Machinery; intake air filters for internal combustion engines. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are all air filters classified under 842131?
No, not all air filters are classified under 842131. This code is specifically for intake air filters used in internal combustion engines. Air filters for other applications, such as those in air conditioning systems, ventilation units, or industrial air purification, would typically be classified under other HS codes, such as 842139.
Which countries are the top exporters of air filter (HS 842131)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 842131 (the code used for air filter) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($720M, 15% of world exports), the United States ($680M) and China ($678M). World exports came to about $4.8B, 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 air filter (HS 842131)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 842131 (the code used for air filter) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($636M, 13% of world imports), Germany ($365M) and Canada ($273M). World imports came to about $5.1B, 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 Air filter the same in all countries?
The base HS code 842131 for Air filter 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 air filter in Brazil?
In Brazil, air filter (HS 842131) is classified under NCM 8421.31.00.