Product classification
HS code for Earth moving machine: 8430.50
Machinery, for handling earth, minerals or ores, self-propelled, n.e.c. in heading no. 8430.
Classification of earth moving machine under HS 8430.50
The classification of earth moving machines under HS code 8430.50 is determined by the machine's self-propelled nature and its specific function in moving earth, minerals, or ores. This code serves as a residual category for self-propelled machinery that is not specifically named in heading 84.29, which covers common equipment like bulldozers, graders, and excavators. To qualify for 8430.50, the equipment must be designed for heavy-duty extraction or leveling tasks in mining or construction environments. The classification hinges on the distinction between general-purpose earthmoving equipment and specialized machinery that performs unique functions like continuous mining or specific types of trenching. These machines are typically characterized by their massive scale and specialized attachments that are integrated into the chassis. Unlike standard tractors, these units are purpose-built for the extraction and displacement of materials in a way that standard agricultural or construction equipment cannot replicate. The technical specifications must show that the machine is self-propelled and intended for the handling of minerals or earth as its primary function.
- Covers
- Self-propelled coal cutters
- Rock cutters and tunneling machinery
- Self-propelled scrapers not elsewhere specified
- Continuous miners for underground operations
- Self-propelled ditchers and trenchers
- Specialized earth-boring machinery
- Also under 8430.50
- Caterpillar 980M Wheel Loader
- Komatsu WA470 Wheel Loader
- Volvo A45G Articulated Hauler
- John Deere 872GP Motor Grader
Codes often confused with 8430.50
Common mistake. This code is frequently confused with HS code 8429.52, which covers self-propelled mechanical shovels, excavators, and shovel loaders. The primary difference lies in the specific mechanical action; if the machine is a standard excavator, it must be under 8429. Additionally, non-self-propelled versions of these machines are classified under 8430.61 or 8430.69. Importers often mistakenly use 8430.50 for agricultural machinery, which belongs in heading 8432.
Top exporters and importers of HS 843050 (the code used for earth moving machine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 843050 (the code used for earth moving machine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 51% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% 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 843050, not only earth moving machine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $793M 51% of world exports
- 2 Germany $193M 12% of world exports
- 3 Italy $86M 5.5% of world exports
World total: $1.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $217M 16% of world imports
- 2 Russia* ~$122M 8.9% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 France $87M 6.3% of world imports
World total: $1.4B 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 earth moving machine
Brazil classifies earth moving machine under NCM 8430.50.00: HS 8430.50 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about earth moving machine
What is the HS code for Earth moving machine?
The HS code for Earth moving machine is 843050 (Machinery; for handling earth, minerals or ores, self-propelled, n.e.c. in heading no. 8430). The primary HS code for self-propelled earth moving machines not specified elsewhere is 8430.50. However, it is essential to verify if the machine fits into more specific categories like 84.29 for bulldozers or 84.30.10 for pile-drivers before using this general code.
How do I classify Earth moving machine for customs?
Earth moving machine is classified under HS code 843050 — Machinery; for handling earth, minerals or ores, self-propelled, n.e.c. in heading no. 8430. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can this code be used for non-self-propelled machines?
No, HS code 8430.50 is strictly for self-propelled machinery. Non-self-propelled earth moving equipment is generally classified under subheadings 8430.61 or 8430.69, depending on whether they are tamping/compacting machines or other types of earth-handling equipment.
Which countries are the top exporters of earth moving machine (HS 843050)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 843050 (the code used for earth moving machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($793M, 51% of world exports), Germany ($193M) and Italy ($86M). World exports came to about $1.6B, 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 earth moving machine (HS 843050)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 843050 (the code used for earth moving machine) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($217M, 16% of world imports), Russia (about $122M) and France ($87M). World imports came to about $1.4B, 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 Earth moving machine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 843050 for Earth moving machine 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 earth moving machine in Brazil?
In Brazil, earth moving machine (HS 843050) is classified under NCM 8430.50.00.