Product classification
HS code for Cargo trailers: 8716.39
Trailers and semi-trailers, (other than tanker type).
Classification of cargo trailers under HS 8716.39
Cargo trailers are classified under HS code 8716.39, which pertains to trailers and semi-trailers for the transport of goods, specifically those that are not of the tanker type. Heading 8716 is the primary category for all trailers, semi-trailers, and other vehicles that are not self-propelled. The classification process for these items depends heavily on their intended use and their structural design. Since cargo trailers are designed to be towed by a motor vehicle to transport various types of freight, they fall squarely within this heading. Subheading 8716.39 acts as a residual category for goods-transport trailers that do not feature a permanent tank for liquids or gases. This includes a wide variety of enclosed and open-top designs used in logistics, construction, and personal transport. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the trailer is used for commercial or private purposes, provided it is designed for hauling goods. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and 6, the product is identified by the terms of the heading and subheadings. Because these trailers lack a motor, they cannot be classified under 8704, and because they are not designed for passengers, they avoid 8716.10. The 8716.39 code is essential for customs authorities to track the movement of non-motorized freight equipment across borders. The materials used in construction, such as steel or aluminum, do not change the primary classification under this code.
- Covers
- Enclosed box trailers for general freight
- Open-top utility trailers
- Flatbed semi-trailers for heavy machinery
- Livestock trailers (non-tanker variety)
- Refrigerated trailers (not self-propelled)
- Also under 8716.39
- Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company (dry vans)
- Great Dane Trailers (refrigerated trailers)
- Wabash National (flatbeds)
- Schmitz Cargobull (curtainsiders)
- Felling Trailers (utility trailers)
Codes often confused with 8716.39
Common mistake. Cargo trailers are frequently confused with tanker trailers, which fall under 8716.31. The distinction lies in the presence of a permanent tank for liquids or gases. Another common error is classifying them under 8704.90, which is reserved for motorized cargo vehicles. Additionally, trailers designed for camping or housing are classified under 8716.10, even if they have storage space for goods.
Top exporters and importers of HS 871639 (the code used for cargo trailers), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 871639 (the code used for cargo trailers) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 26% 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 871639, not only cargo trailers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $3.3B 26% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $2.0B 16% of world exports
- 3 China $1.5B 12% of world exports
World total: $12.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $2.5B 21% of world imports
- 2 Canada $698M 6.0% of world imports
- 3 Germany $682M 5.9% of world imports
World total: $11.6B 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 cargo trailers
Brazil classifies cargo trailers under NCM 8716.39.00: HS 8716.39 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about cargo trailers
What is the HS code for Cargo trailers?
The HS code for Cargo trailers is 871639 (Trailers and semi-trailers; (other than tanker type)). The standard HS code for non-tanker cargo trailers and semi-trailers is 8716.39.
How do I classify Cargo trailers for customs?
Cargo trailers is classified under HS code 871639 — Trailers and semi-trailers; (other than tanker type). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
How are refrigerated trailers classified?
If the trailer is a non-motorized unit designed for goods transport, it remains under 8716.39, even if equipped with a cooling unit.
Which countries are the top exporters of cargo trailers (HS 871639)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 871639 (the code used for cargo trailers) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($3.3B, 26% of world exports), Mexico ($2.0B) and China ($1.5B). World exports came to about $12.6B, 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 cargo trailers (HS 871639)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 871639 (the code used for cargo trailers) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.5B, 21% of world imports), Canada ($698M) and Germany ($682M). World imports came to about $11.6B, 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 Cargo trailers the same in all countries?
The base HS code 871639 for Cargo trailers 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 cargo trailers in Brazil?
In Brazil, cargo trailers (HS 871639) is classified under NCM 8716.39.00.