Product classification
HS code for Keys: 8301.70
Keys, presented separately, of base metal.
Classification of keys under HS 8301.70
Keys that are presented separately from their corresponding locks are classified under HS code 8301.70. This code is part of Chapter 83, which covers miscellaneous articles of base metal. The classification is based on the material composition and the specific function of the item. Heading 8301 includes padlocks and locks of base metal, and subheading 8301.70 is specifically dedicated to 'keys presented separately.' This includes finished keys ready for use as well as key blanks that have been shaped but not yet cut to a specific lock pattern, provided they are clearly identifiable as key blanks of base metal. The classification is governed by GRI 1, which prioritizes the specific terms of the headings. It is important to note that this code only applies to keys made of base metals such as steel, brass, or aluminum. If a key is presented together with the lock it operates, the entire set is classified under the code for the lock (e.g., 8301.10 for padlocks or 8301.40 for other locks).
- Covers
- House and door keys
- Car keys (metal blades)
- Key blanks of base metal
- Master keys
- Padlock keys
- Also under 8301.70
- Kwikset Key Blanks
- Schlage Key Blanks
- Yale Key Blanks
- Ilco Key Blanks
- JMA Key Blanks
Codes often confused with 8301.70
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs with modern electronic car keys or 'fobs,' which are often incorrectly placed in 8301.70. If the key contains a transponder or remote-entry electronics, it is more appropriately classified under 8526.92 (radio remote control apparatus) or 8537.10 (boards/consoles for electric control). Another error is 7326.90 (other articles of iron or steel), which is a basket category that should not be used when a specific heading like 8301.70 exists.
Top exporters and importers of HS 830170 (the code used for keys), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 830170 (the code used for keys) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 17% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 12% 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 830170, not only keys.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $85M 17% of world exports
- 2 Italy $74M 14% of world exports
- 3 Germany $74M 14% of world exports
World total: $511M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $63M 12% of world imports
- 2 Germany $45M 8.8% of world imports
- 3 Mexico $29M 5.7% of world imports
World total: $514M 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 keys
Brazil classifies keys under NCM 8301.70.00: HS 8301.70 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about keys
What is the HS code for Keys?
The HS code for Keys is 830170 (Keys; presented separately, of base metal). The HS code for keys of base metal presented separately is 8301.70.
How do I classify Keys for customs?
Keys is classified under HS code 830170 — Keys; presented separately, of base metal. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
How are key blanks classified?
Key blanks made of base metal are also classified under 8301.70, as they are recognizable as unfinished parts of the specific article mentioned in the heading.
Which countries are the top exporters of keys (HS 830170)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 830170 (the code used for keys) in UN Comtrade data were China ($85M, 17% of world exports), Italy ($74M) and Germany ($74M). World exports came to about $511M, 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 keys (HS 830170)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 830170 (the code used for keys) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($63M, 12% of world imports), Germany ($45M) and Mexico ($29M). World imports came to about $514M, 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 Keys the same in all countries?
The base HS code 830170 for Keys 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 keys in Brazil?
In Brazil, keys (HS 830170) is classified under NCM 8301.70.00.