Product classification
HS code for Ignition magneto: 8511.20
Ignition or starting equipment, ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels, of a kind used for spark or compression-ignition internal combustion engines.
Classification of ignition magneto under HS 8511.20
The classification of ignition magnetos under HS code 851120 is determined by their specific function as electrical ignition or starting equipment for spark-ignition or compression-ignition internal combustion engines. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), products are classified based on their technical characteristics and intended use. Ignition magnetos are self-contained generators that provide high-voltage pulses to the spark plugs, operating independently of a battery. This specific mechanical-electrical function distinguishes them from other engine components. The Harmonized System identifies these under Heading 8511, which encompasses electrical ignition equipment, and specifically sub-heading 851120 for magnetos and magneto-dynamos. These devices are essential for the operation of small engines, aviation engines, and certain industrial machinery where a reliable, independent spark source is required. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the magneto is imported as a standalone unit or as part of a kit, provided it retains its essential character as a magneto. The technical requirement for this code involves the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy specifically for the purpose of engine ignition.
- Covers
- Dual magnetos for aircraft engines
- Magnetic flywheels for small engines
- Magneto-dynamos for motorcycles
- High-tension magnetos for industrial engines
- Low-tension magnetos for stationary engines
- Also under 8511.20
- Briggs & Stratton Magneto Armature
- Kohler Engine Ignition Coil
- Stihl Chainsaw Flywheel
- Yamaha Outboard Magneto Assembly
- Lucas Magneto for vintage motorcycles.
Codes often confused with 8511.20
Common mistake. Ignition magnetos are frequently confused with ignition coils classified under HS code 851130. While both generate high voltage, a coil requires an external power source (like a battery), whereas a magneto generates its own power. Another common error is classifying them under HS code 8501 as general-purpose electric motors or generators; however, because they are specialized for engine ignition, Heading 8511 takes precedence as the more specific description.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851120 (the code used for ignition magneto), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851120 (the code used for ignition magneto) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Thailand, 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 851120, not only ignition magneto.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $38M 20% of world exports
- 2 India $28M 15% of world exports
- 3 United States $27M 14% of world exports
World total: $191M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Thailand $20M 11% of world imports
- 2 United States $16M 8.8% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$11M 6.2% of world imports · partner records ↗
World total: $182M 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 codes for ignition magneto
Brazil splits HS 8511.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8511.20.10Ignition magnetos
- 8511.20.90Magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about ignition magneto
What is the HS code for Ignition magneto?
The HS code for Ignition magneto is 851120 (Ignition or starting equipment; ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels, of a kind used for spark or compression-ignition internal combustion engines). The HS code for an ignition magneto is 851120, which covers ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos, and magnetic flywheels.
How do I classify Ignition magneto for customs?
Ignition magneto is classified under HS code 851120 — Ignition or starting equipment; ignition magnetos, magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels, of a kind used for spark or compression-ignition internal combustion engines. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the spark plugs?
No, spark plugs are classified separately under HS code 851110, even if they are used in conjunction with a magneto system.
Which countries are the top exporters of ignition magneto (HS 851120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851120 (the code used for ignition magneto) in UN Comtrade data were China ($38M, 20% of world exports), India ($28M) and the United States ($27M). World exports came to about $191M, 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 ignition magneto (HS 851120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851120 (the code used for ignition magneto) in UN Comtrade data were Thailand ($20M, 11% of world imports), the United States ($16M) and Vietnam (about $11M). World imports came to about $182M, 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 Ignition magneto the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851120 for Ignition magneto 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 ignition magneto in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 851120 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for ignition magneto depends on the product's details: 8511.20.10 (Ignition magnetos), 8511.20.90 (Magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels).