Product classification
HS code for Flatbed trailers: 8716.39
Trailers and semi-trailers, (other than tanker type).
Classification of flatbed trailers under HS 8716.39
Flatbed trailers and semi-trailers used for the transport of goods are classified under HS code 8716.39. This code falls under Chapter 87, which covers vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling-stock. Heading 8716 is specifically for trailers and semi-trailers, which are defined as vehicles designed to be towed by another vehicle. The sub-heading 8716.39 is a catch-all for trailers intended for goods transport that are not tanker-style. Flatbed trailers are characterized by their open, flat platform without sides or a roof, making them ideal for transporting heavy machinery, construction materials, or containers. The classification remains consistent regardless of the number of axles or the specific hitching mechanism, provided the vehicle is not self-propelled. According to GRI 1, the classification is determined by the terms of the heading and the intended use of the vehicle for transporting goods. This code is essential for distinguishing general-purpose freight trailers from specialized equipment like mobile workshops.
- Covers
- Flatbed semi-trailers
- Drop-deck flatbed trailers
- Skeletal trailers for containers
- Extendable flatbed trailers
- Heavy-duty low-boy trailers
- Also under 8716.39
- Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company (dry vans)
- Great Dane Trailers (refrigerated trailers)
- Wabash National (flatbeds)
- Schmitz Cargobull (curtainsiders)
- Felling Trailers (utility trailers)
Codes often confused with 8716.39
Common mistake. Common misclassifications include 8716.31 for tanker trailers and 8716.40 for other trailers not intended for goods transport. 8716.31 is specifically for liquid or gas transport. 8716.40 is for trailers like mobile libraries or exhibition trailers. Another error is 8704.23, which refers to the motor vehicle (truck) itself; the trailer must be classified separately from the tractor unit in most jurisdictions, as the trailer lacks its own propulsion system.
Top exporters and importers of HS 871639 (the code used for flatbed trailers), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 871639 (the code used for flatbed trailers) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 26% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 21% 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 871639, not only flatbed trailers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $3.3B 26% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $2.0B 16% of world exports
- 3 China $1.5B 12% of world exports
World total: $12.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $2.5B 21% of world imports
- 2 Canada $698M 6.0% of world imports
- 3 Germany $682M 5.9% of world imports
World total: $11.6B 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 flatbed trailers
Brazil classifies flatbed trailers under NCM 8716.39.00: HS 8716.39 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about flatbed trailers
What is the HS code for Flatbed trailers?
The HS code for Flatbed trailers is 871639 (Trailers and semi-trailers; (other than tanker type)). The HS code for flatbed trailers and semi-trailers for goods transport is 8716.39.
How do I classify Flatbed trailers for customs?
Flatbed trailers is classified under HS code 871639 — Trailers and semi-trailers; (other than tanker type). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the truck that pulls it?
No, the tractor unit or truck is classified separately under heading 8701 or 8704; 8716.39 only covers the trailer itself.
Which countries are the top exporters of flatbed trailers (HS 871639)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 871639 (the code used for flatbed trailers) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($3.3B, 26% of world exports), Mexico ($2.0B) and China ($1.5B). World exports came to about $12.6B, 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 flatbed trailers (HS 871639)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 871639 (the code used for flatbed trailers) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.5B, 21% of world imports), Canada ($698M) and Germany ($682M). World imports came to about $11.6B, 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.
Is the HS code for Flatbed trailers the same in all countries?
The base HS code 871639 for Flatbed trailers 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 flatbed trailers in Brazil?
In Brazil, flatbed trailers (HS 871639) is classified under NCM 8716.39.00.