Product classification
HS code for Files: 8203.10
Tools, hand, files, rasps and similar tools.
Classification of files under HS 8203.10
Files and rasps are classified under HS code 8203.10. This code is situated within Chapter 82, which covers tools, implements, cutlery, spoons, and forks of base metal. Heading 8203 specifically includes files, rasps, pliers, pincers, tweezers, metal-cutting shears, and similar hand tools. The subheading 8203.10 is dedicated to files, rasps, and similar tools. These tools are characterized by a surface featuring sharp, hardened teeth or ridges designed for the manual removal of material from a workpiece through abrasion. The classification is strictly for hand tools; the tool must be designed to be used by hand without an external power source. The material must be base metal (typically high-carbon steel). This code covers a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from large industrial rasps to small needle files used in precision work.
- Covers
- Flat, round, and half-round metal files
- Wood rasps and cabinet rasps
- Needle files for jewelry and precision engineering
- Riffler files for die sinking
- Cross-cut and single-cut engineering files
- Also under 8203.10
- Nicholson Files
- Bahco Ergo Files
- Grobet Swiss Pattern Files
- Stanley Wood Rasps
Codes often confused with 8203.10
Common mistake. Files are often misclassified under 8207, which covers interchangeable tools for hand tools or machine tools (such as file bits for a rotary tool). Another common error involves manicure files; if they are made of base metal, they are often classified under 8214.20 as manicure instruments. If they are emery boards made of paper and abrasives, they fall under 6805.20. Finally, files that are part of a set of two or more tools may need to be classified under 8206.00.
Top exporters and importers of HS 820310 (the code used for files), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 820310 (the code used for files) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 22% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 11% 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 820310, not only files.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $72M 22% of world exports
- 2 Germany $52M 16% of world exports
- 3 India $38M 12% of world exports
World total: $328M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $35M 11% of world imports
- 2 Germany $29M 9.1% of world imports
- 3 Netherlands $15M 4.8% of world imports
World total: $315M 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 codes for files
Brazil splits HS 8203.10 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8203.10.10Files and rasps
- 8203.10.90Tools similar to files and rasps
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about files
What is the HS code for Files?
The HS code for Files is 820310 (Tools, hand; files, rasps and similar tools). The HS code for hand-operated files and rasps made of base metal is 8203.10.
How do I classify Files for customs?
Files is classified under HS code 820310 — Tools, hand; files, rasps and similar tools. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include nail files?
Generally, no. Metal nail files are typically classified under 8214.20 as manicure instruments, while disposable emery boards are classified under 6805.20.
Which countries are the top exporters of files (HS 820310)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 820310 (the code used for files) in UN Comtrade data were China ($72M, 22% of world exports), Germany ($52M) and India ($38M). World exports came to about $328M, 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 files (HS 820310)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 820310 (the code used for files) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($35M, 11% of world imports), Germany ($29M) and the Netherlands ($15M). World imports came to about $315M, 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 Files the same in all countries?
The base HS code 820310 for Files 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 files in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 820310 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for files depends on the product's details: 8203.10.10 (Files and rasps), 8203.10.90 (Tools similar to files and rasps).