Product classification
HS code for Escalator: 8428.40
Escalators and moving walkways.
Classification of escalator under HS 8428.40
Escalators are classified under HS code 8428.40, which falls under the broader heading 8428 for "Other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery." This classification is based on the mechanical function of the product, which is to move persons or goods continuously between different levels. Heading 8428 is a residual heading for machinery that performs lifting or handling functions but is not specifically covered by headings 8425 (pulley tackle), 8426 (cranes), or 8427 (fork-lift trucks). Subheading 8428.40 is the specific international designation for escalators and moving walkways. The classification includes the entire mechanical assembly, including the metal truss, the drive system, the motor, the steps (or pallets for walkways), and the handrail mechanism. Even if imported in a disassembled or "knocked-down" state for ease of transport, the item is classified as a complete escalator under GRI 2(a), provided it has the essential character of the finished machine.
- Covers
- Standard building escalators
- Outdoor weather-resistant escalators
- Moving walkways (horizontal or inclined)
- Power-driven stairs for passenger transport
- Spiral escalators
- Escalator systems with integrated safety sensors
- Also under 8428.40
- KONE escalators
- Otis escalators
- Schindler escalators
- ThyssenKrupp moving walks
Codes often confused with 8428.40
Common mistake. Escalators are often confused with elevators (lifts), which are classified under HS code 8428.10. The distinction lies in the method of transport: elevators move vertically in a shaft, while escalators provide continuous movement via a circulating chain of steps. Another common error is attempting to classify individual parts, such as steps or handrails, under 8428.40. Parts should be classified under HS code 8431.39, which is the specific code for parts of machinery belonging to heading 8428. Furthermore, simple non-mechanical stairs or ladders are classified based on their constituent material (e.g., steel in 7326 or wood in 4421), not as machinery.
Top exporters and importers of HS 842840 (the code used for escalator), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 842840 (the code used for escalator) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 78% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was France, with 6.8% 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 842840, not only escalator.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $431M 78% of world exports
- 2 Spain $24M 4.4% of world exports
- 3 Austria $22M 4.0% of world exports
World total: $550M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 France $47M 6.8% of world imports
- 2 United States $44M 6.3% of world imports
- 3 Saudi Arabia $41M 6.0% of world imports
World total: $687M 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 escalator
Brazil classifies escalator under NCM 8428.40.00: HS 8428.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about escalator
What is the HS code for Escalator?
The HS code for Escalator is 842840 (Escalators and moving walkways). The international HS code for escalators and moving walkways is 8428.40.
How do I classify Escalator for customs?
Escalator is classified under HS code 842840 — Escalators and moving walkways. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are spare parts for escalators classified under the same code?
No, spare parts such as individual steps, rollers, or handrails are generally classified under HS code 8431.39, which covers parts for lifting and handling machinery.
Which countries are the top exporters of escalator (HS 842840)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 842840 (the code used for escalator) in UN Comtrade data were China ($431M, 78% of world exports), Spain ($24M) and Austria ($22M). World exports came to about $550M, 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 escalator (HS 842840)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 842840 (the code used for escalator) in UN Comtrade data were France ($47M, 6.8% of world imports), the United States ($44M) and Saudi Arabia ($41M). World imports came to about $687M, 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 Escalator the same in all countries?
The base HS code 842840 for Escalator 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 escalator in Brazil?
In Brazil, escalator (HS 842840) is classified under NCM 8428.40.00.