Product classification
HS code for Forklift parts: 8431.20
Machinery, parts of the machinery of heading no. 8427.
Classification of forklift parts under HS 8431.20
The classification of forklift parts under HS code 8431.20 is governed by Note 2 to Section XVI of the Harmonized System. This note dictates that parts which are suitable for use solely or principally with a particular kind of machine are to be classified with those machines. Since forklifts and other work trucks fitted with lifting or handling equipment are classified under heading 8427, their dedicated parts fall under 8431.20. This includes structural components that are unique to the forklift's operation, such as the mast assembly, the fork arms, and the carriage. However, this code does not cover "parts of general use" as defined in Note 2 to Section XV (such as screws, bolts, and springs of base metal) or items specifically excluded by other notes, such as internal combustion engines (heading 8407 or 8408) or electrical equipment (Chapter 85), which retain their own specific headings even when intended for use in a forklift. Furthermore, tires for forklifts are classified under heading 4011 based on their material composition. To correctly use 8431.20, the importer must demonstrate that the part has no other significant application other than for the machinery of heading 8427. This is often established through part numbers, technical drawings, or manufacturer specifications. Misclassification often occurs when general-purpose hydraulic components are placed here instead of under heading 8412 or 8413.
- Covers
- Forklift masts and lift cylinders
- Forklift fork arms (tines)
- Lifting carriages and load backrests
- Steering axles for forklift trucks
- Side-shifters and other forklift attachments
- Also under 8431.20
- Toyota forklift parts
- Hyster lift truck components
- Crown pallet jack wheels
- Linde material handling spares
Codes often confused with 8431.20
Common mistake. Forklift parts are frequently misclassified under 8708, which is for parts of motor vehicles. However, forklifts are classified in 8427 (machinery), not 8703 (cars). Another error is using 8431.39, which is for parts of other lifting/handling machinery like conveyors, rather than the specific 8431.20 for forklifts.
Top exporters and importers of HS 843120 (the code used for forklift parts), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 843120 (the code used for forklift parts) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 18% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 24% 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 843120, not only forklift parts.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $1.1B 18% of world exports
- 2 Germany $867M 14% of world exports
- 3 Italy $533M 8.5% of world exports
World total: $6.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.9B 24% of world imports
- 2 Germany $836M 11% of world imports
- 3 France $749M 9.7% of world imports
World total: $7.7B 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 forklift parts
Brazil splits HS 8431.20 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8431.20.11Parts of self-propelled fork-lift trucks
- 8431.20.19Parts of other fork-lift trucks
- 8431.20.90Other parts of works trucks
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about forklift parts
What is the HS code for Forklift parts?
The HS code for Forklift parts is 843120 (Machinery; parts of the machinery of heading no. 8427). The HS code for parts suitable for use solely or principally with forklifts and other trucks of heading 8427 is 8431.20.
How do I classify Forklift parts for customs?
Forklift parts is classified under HS code 843120 — Machinery; parts of the machinery of heading no. 8427. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are forklift batteries classified under 8431.20?
No, electric accumulators (batteries) are classified under heading 8507, even if they are designed specifically for use in an electric forklift.
Which countries are the top exporters of forklift parts (HS 843120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 843120 (the code used for forklift parts) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.1B, 18% of world exports), Germany ($867M) and Italy ($533M). World exports came to about $6.3B, 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 forklift parts (HS 843120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 843120 (the code used for forklift parts) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.9B, 24% of world imports), Germany ($836M) and France ($749M). World imports came to about $7.7B, 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 Forklift parts the same in all countries?
The base HS code 843120 for Forklift parts 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 forklift parts in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 843120 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for forklift parts depends on the product's details: 8431.20.11 (Parts of self-propelled fork-lift trucks), 8431.20.19 (Parts of other fork-lift trucks), 8431.20.90 (Other parts of works trucks).