HS Code for Cargo planes

Cargo planes, or heavy transport aircraft, are classified under HS code 8802.40. This code applies to powered aircraft, such as airplanes, that are designed for the transport of goods or passengers and have an unladen weight exceeding 15,000 kg. The unladen weight refers to the weight of the aircraft in normal flying order, excluding the weight of the crew, fuel, and equipment other than fixed equipment. For large-scale logistics and international freight, these aircraft are the primary vehicles. Classification is based on the aircraft being "manned" (distinguishing it from the 8806 series for drones) and meeting the specific weight criteria of the 8802.40 subheading. This category includes most wide-body and long-haul freighter aircraft used by global logistics companies. The classification follows GIR 1, as the heading 8802 specifically describes aircraft, and the subheading is determined by the weight threshold.

Products Included

• Wide-body cargo jet aircraft
• Heavy-lift military transport planes (civilian use)
• Freighter aircraft with unladen weight > 15,000kg
• Converted passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft
• Multi-engine cargo transport airplanes

Common Misclassification

Cargo planes are often confused with HS code 8802.30, which covers aircraft with an unladen weight between 2,000 kg and 15,000 kg. It is vital to distinguish between "unladen weight" and "maximum take-off weight" (MTOW), as the HS code for manned aircraft relies on the former. Another misclassification involves unmanned cargo aircraft (drones), which must be classified under heading 8806 regardless of weight. Finally, ground-effect machines or hovercraft are excluded from this heading and are classified under 8903 or 8705 depending on their design.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Cargo planes?

The HS code for cargo planes (manned aircraft) with an unladen weight exceeding 15,000 kg is 8802.40.

What does 'unladen weight' mean in aircraft classification?

Unladen weight is the weight of the aircraft in normal flying order, including all fixed equipment (such as navigation aids and interior fittings) but excluding the weight of the crew, fuel, and any removable payload or cargo.