Product classification
HS code for Lift: 8428.10
Lifts and skip hoists.
Classification of lift under HS 8428.10
Lifts and skip hoists are classified under HS code 8428.10. This classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI). Specifically, Heading 8428 encompasses machinery for lifting, handling, loading, or unloading. Within this heading, subheading 8428.10 is dedicated to lifts and skip hoists. These are defined as mechanical devices designed to move people or goods between levels, usually along fixed vertical or inclined guides. The classification applies to the complete mechanical assembly, including the motor, the car or platform, and the guiding structure. It is important to note that the classification remains in 8428.10 regardless of the drive mechanism, whether it be traction, hydraulic, or screw-driven. The essential character of the product is its function as a stationary lifting installation. For customs purposes, the lift is viewed as a single functional unit even if shipped in multiple containers for assembly on-site, provided it meets the criteria of an incomplete or unfinished article having the essential character of the finished product under GRI 2(a). The classification is determined by the primary function of vertical transport rather than the specific industry it serves, such as construction or residential use.
- Covers
- Passenger lifts for residential and commercial buildings
- Freight lifts for industrial warehouses
- Service lifts (dumbwaiters) for restaurants
- Skip hoists used in construction for moving bulk materials
- Hospital bed lifts
- Inclined lifts for steep terrain
- Also under 8428.10
- Otis Gen2 series
- Schindler 3300 series
- Kone MonoSpace
- Alimak Hek construction hoists
Codes often confused with 8428.10
Common mistake. Lifts are frequently misclassified under HS code 8427, which covers fork-lift trucks and other work trucks fitted with lifting equipment. The distinction lies in mobility; 8428.10 is for stationary installations, while 8427 is for mobile vehicles. Another common error is using 8431.31, which is reserved for parts of lifts rather than the complete system. Additionally, escalators and moving walkways are classified under 8428.40, not 8428.10.
Top exporters and importers of HS 842810 (the code used for lift), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 842810 (the code used for lift) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 33% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United Kingdom, with 6.0% 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 842810, not only lift.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $2.5B 33% of world exports
- 2 Spain $680M 9.1% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $588M 7.9% of world exports
World total: $7.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United Kingdom $426M 6.0% of world imports
- 2 Germany $321M 4.5% of world imports
- 3 Canada $302M 4.3% of world imports
World total: $7.1B 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 lift
Brazil classifies lift under NCM 8428.10.00: HS 8428.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about lift
What is the HS code for Lift?
The HS code for Lift is 842810 (Lifts and skip hoists). The primary HS code for a complete lift system is 8428.10.
How do I classify Lift for customs?
Lift is classified under HS code 842810 — Lifts and skip hoists. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the elevator motor?
If the motor is imported as part of a complete lift system, it is included in 8428.10. However, if the motor is imported separately, it is classified under heading 8501.
Which countries are the top exporters of lift (HS 842810)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 842810 (the code used for lift) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.5B, 33% of world exports), Spain ($680M) and the Netherlands ($588M). World exports came to about $7.4B, 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 lift (HS 842810)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 842810 (the code used for lift) in UN Comtrade data were the United Kingdom ($426M, 6.0% of world imports), Germany ($321M) and Canada ($302M). World imports came to about $7.1B, 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 Lift the same in all countries?
The base HS code 842810 for Lift 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 lift in Brazil?
In Brazil, lift (HS 842810) is classified under NCM 8428.10.00.