Product classification
HS code for Envelope making machine: 8441.20
Machines, for making bags, sacks or envelopes of paper pulp, paper or paperboard.
Classification of envelope making machine under HS 8441.20
The classification of envelope making machines under HS code 8441.20 is based on the machine's primary function of converting paper or paperboard into finished containers. Chapter 84 covers mechanical appliances, and heading 8441 specifically addresses machinery for making up paper pulp, paper, or paperboard. Subheading 8441.20 is dedicated to machines designed for the production of bags, sacks, or envelopes. These machines typically perform a sequence of operations including cutting, folding, and gluing. The classification remains consistent whether the machine produces standard mailing envelopes, padded shipping bags, or large industrial sacks. It is important to distinguish these from machines that merely print on pre-made envelopes or machines that package items into envelopes (which would fall under 8422). The technical capability to form the envelope structure from a flat sheet or roll of paper is the defining characteristic for 8441.20. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, heading 8441 includes machines that work on paper or paperboard that has already been produced in the form of sheets or rolls. This distinguishes them from paper-making machines in heading 8439. The machines in 8441.20 are often complex, multi-station units that may include integrated printing or window-cutting attachments. However, as long as the "essential character" of the machine is the formation of the envelope or bag, it remains classified here. If a machine is multi-functional, General Interpretative Rule 3(b) or 3(c) may be applied to determine the principal function, which in this case is the conversion of paper into a container.
- Covers
- Automatic envelope folding and gluing machines
- Paper bag making machines
- Industrial sack making machinery
- Machines for making padded shipping envelopes
- Window-patching machines for envelopes
- Multi-wall paper sack production lines
- Also under 8441.20
- W&H VAREX II Blown Film Line (for paper bags)
- Newlong DS-9C Bag Closing Machine
- BHS Corrugated Bag Making Machine
- F.L. Smithe Webmaster Envelope Machine
- Ruian Gaoguang Paper Bag Machine
Codes often confused with 8441.20
Common mistake. Envelope making machines are frequently misclassified under HS code 8441.10, which is reserved for cutting machines (guillotines) that do not perform folding or gluing. They are also confused with HS code 8441.30, which covers machines for making cartons, boxes, cases, tubes, or drums. While both involve paper conversion, the distinction between a flat envelope/bag and a rigid box is critical. Additionally, envelope stuffing or sealing machines used in offices are classified under HS code 8422.40 as packaging machinery.
Top exporters and importers of HS 844120 (the code used for envelope making machine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 844120 (the code used for envelope making machine) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 42% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 17% 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 844120, not only envelope making machine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $195M 42% of world exports
- 2 China $164M 36% of world exports
- 3 France $22M 4.8% of world exports
World total: $458M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $74M 17% of world imports
- 2 France $22M 4.9% of world imports
- 3 Türkiye $20M 4.5% of world imports
World total: $441M 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 envelope making machine
Brazil classifies envelope making machine under NCM 8441.20.00: HS 8441.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about envelope making machine
What is the HS code for Envelope making machine?
The HS code for Envelope making machine is 844120 (Machines; for making bags, sacks or envelopes of paper pulp, paper or paperboard). The HS code for machines used for making bags, sacks, or envelopes from paper or paperboard is 8441.20.
How do I classify Envelope making machine for customs?
Envelope making machine is classified under HS code 844120 — Machines; for making bags, sacks or envelopes of paper pulp, paper or paperboard. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include machines that make plastic envelopes?
No, machines that manufacture envelopes or bags from plastic film are generally classified under HS code 8477.80, as they are considered machinery for working rubber or plastics.
Which countries are the top exporters of envelope making machine (HS 844120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 844120 (the code used for envelope making machine) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($195M, 42% of world exports), China ($164M) and France ($22M). World exports came to about $458M, 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 envelope making machine (HS 844120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 844120 (the code used for envelope making machine) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($74M, 17% of world imports), France ($22M) and Türkiye ($20M). World imports came to about $441M, 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 Envelope making machine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 844120 for Envelope making 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 envelope making machine in Brazil?
In Brazil, envelope making machine (HS 844120) is classified under NCM 8441.20.00.