Product classification
HS code for Bench vises: 8205.70
Tools, hand, vices, clamps and the like.
Classification of bench vises under HS 8205.70
Bench vises are classified under HS code 8205.70, which covers vices, clamps, and the like. This classification is found within Chapter 82, which is dedicated to tools, implements, cutlery, spoons, and forks of base metal. Heading 8205 specifically addresses hand tools that are not specified or included elsewhere. The classification of a bench vise under 8205.70 is based on its identity as a manually operated tool used to hold an object firmly in place while work is performed on it. According to the General Rules of Interpretation, the material composition (usually cast iron or steel) and the manual method of operation are the defining characteristics. This code applies to tools used by carpenters, mechanics, and hobbyists that are designed to be fixed to a workbench or used as portable clamping devices.
- Covers
- Parallel jaw bench vises
- Woodworking vises for bench mounting
- Pipe vises for manual operation
- G-clamps and C-clamps
- Quick-release bench vises
- Swivel-base bench vises
- Also under 8205.70
- Wilton Bench Vise
- Bessey K Body Revo Clamp
- Jorgensen Cabinet Master Clamp
- Irwin Quick-Grip Clamp
Codes often confused with 8205.70
Common mistake. A common misclassification for bench vises is HS code 8466.20, which covers work holders for machine tools. The distinction lies in the application: if the vise is designed to be mounted on a machine tool (like a milling machine or drill press) to hold a workpiece during a machining process, it belongs in 8466.20. If it is a general-purpose tool for a workbench, it stays in 8205.70. Another error is using 8205.59, which is a residual category for other hand tools; however, since vices and clamps have a specific subheading (8205.70), that specific code must be used. Additionally, if the vise is part of a complete machine (like a specialized saw with an integrated vise), it may be classified with the machine in Chapter 84.
Top exporters and importers of HS 820570 (the code used for bench vises), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 820570 (the code used for bench vises) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 27% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 21% 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 820570, not only bench vises.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $207M 27% of world exports
- 2 Germany $109M 14% of world exports
- 3 United States $88M 11% of world exports
World total: $771M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $188M 21% of world imports
- 2 Germany $83M 9.1% of world imports
- 3 Canada $65M 7.1% of world imports
World total: $913M 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 bench vises
Brazil classifies bench vises under NCM 8205.70.00: HS 8205.70 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about bench vises
What is the HS code for Bench vises?
The HS code for Bench vises is 820570 (Tools, hand; vices, clamps and the like). The standard HS code for manually operated bench vises and clamps is 8205.70.
How do I classify Bench vises for customs?
Bench vises is classified under HS code 820570 — Tools, hand; vices, clamps and the like. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are machine vises classified under the same code?
No, machine vises intended for use with machine tools are classified under HS code 8466.20, as they are considered accessories to the machinery rather than standalone hand tools.
Which countries are the top exporters of bench vises (HS 820570)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 820570 (the code used for bench vises) in UN Comtrade data were China ($207M, 27% of world exports), Germany ($109M) and the United States ($88M). World exports came to about $771M, 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 bench vises (HS 820570)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 820570 (the code used for bench vises) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($188M, 21% of world imports), Germany ($83M) and Canada ($65M). World imports came to about $913M, 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 Bench vises the same in all countries?
The base HS code 820570 for Bench vises 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 bench vises in Brazil?
In Brazil, bench vises (HS 820570) is classified under NCM 8205.70.00.