Product classification
HS code for Excavator: 8429.59
Mechanical shovels, excavators and shovel loaders, n.e.c. in item no. 8429.50.
Classification of excavator under HS 8429.59
Excavators are classified under HS code 8429.59 because they fall within the category of self-propelled mechanical shovels and shovel loaders. Heading 8429 specifically covers heavy machinery used for earth-moving, such as bulldozers, graders, and levelers. Subheading 8429.59 is a residual category for mechanical shovels and excavators that are not front-end shovel loaders (which are 8429.51). The classification is determined by the machine's primary function of digging and moving earth using a boom, stick, and bucket assembly, and its ability to move independently on tracks or wheels. This code is used globally to ensure uniform tariff application for heavy construction equipment that features a 360-degree rotating superstructure.
- Covers
- Crawler excavators
- Wheeled excavators
- Mini-excavators
- Compact excavators
- Long-reach excavators
- Hydraulic excavators
- Also under 8429.59
- JCB 3CX
- Case 580 Super N
- Bobcat S770 (skid-steer)
- Caterpillar 420F2
- Terex TLB840
Codes often confused with 8429.59
Common mistake. Excavators are frequently confused with front-end shovel loaders, which are classified under HS code 8429.51. The distinction lies in the mechanical action; 8429.51 is for machines that load from the front, whereas 8429.59 is for machines with a digging arm. Additionally, non-self-propelled excavating machinery is classified under heading 8430, specifically 8430.69, which covers towed or stationary equipment. Parts for these machines should not be classified here but under 8431.41 or 8431.49.
Top exporters and importers of HS 842959 (the code used for excavator), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 842959 (the code used for excavator) in UN Comtrade data was the United Kingdom, with 23% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 6.7% 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 842959, not only excavator.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United Kingdom $915M 23% of world exports
- 2 India $538M 14% of world exports
- 3 China $514M 13% of world exports
World total: $3.9B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $345M 6.7% of world imports
- 2 Russia* ~$270M 5.3% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Chile $262M 5.1% of world imports
World total: $5.1B 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 excavator
Brazil classifies excavator under NCM 8429.59.00: HS 8429.59 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about excavator
What is the HS code for Excavator?
The HS code for Excavator is 842959 (Mechanical shovels, excavators and shovel loaders; n.e.c. in item no. 8429.50). The primary HS code for self-propelled excavators (other than front-end loaders) is 8429.59.
How do I classify Excavator for customs?
Excavator is classified under HS code 842959 — Mechanical shovels, excavators and shovel loaders; n.e.c. in item no. 8429.50. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include backhoe loaders?
No, backhoe loaders are typically classified under HS code 8429.51 if the front-loading function is primary, though some jurisdictions may apply specific subheadings depending on the machine's configuration.
Which countries are the top exporters of excavator (HS 842959)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 842959 (the code used for excavator) in UN Comtrade data were the United Kingdom ($915M, 23% of world exports), India ($538M) and China ($514M). World exports came to about $3.9B, 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 excavator (HS 842959)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 842959 (the code used for excavator) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($345M, 6.7% of world imports), Russia (about $270M) and Chile ($262M). World imports came to about $5.1B, 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 Excavator the same in all countries?
The base HS code 842959 for Excavator 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 excavator in Brazil?
In Brazil, excavator (HS 842959) is classified under NCM 8429.59.00.