Product classification

HS code for Loading machine: 8428.90

Lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery, n.e.c. in heading no. 8425, 8426, 8427 or 8428.

Classification of loading machine under HS 8428.90

A loading machine that does not fit into more specific categories of lifting or handling equipment is classified under HS code 8428.90. Chapter 84 of the Harmonized System covers mechanical appliances and machinery. Within this chapter, headings 8425 through 8428 cover various types of lifting, handling, loading, or unloading machinery. Heading 8428 is a broad category for \"other\" machinery not specified in the previous headings (which cover jacks, hoists, cranes, and fork-lifts). Subheading 8428.90 serves as the residual category for complex or specialized loading machinery. This includes a wide array of industrial equipment such as specialized palletizers, automated loaders for production lines, and robotic arms specifically designed for loading tasks. The classification depends on the machine being a stationary or mobile unit that performs the function of moving goods but does not meet the definitions of earth-moving equipment or standard industrial trucks.

Covers
  • Industrial robotic loaders
  • Automated palletizers and depalletizers
  • Mechanical loaders for specialized cargo
  • Conveyor-based loading systems (non-continuous)
  • Pipe-laying layers and specialized handling frames
Also under 8428.90
  • Dematic AS/RS
  • JLG scissor lifts (non-self-propelled versions)
  • Schmalz vacuum lifting devices
  • KUKA palletizing systems (excluding the robot itself)

Codes often confused with 8428.90

Common mistake. Loading machines are often misclassified under HS code 8429.51, which is for self-propelled front-end shovel loaders. However, 8429 is strictly for earth-moving, mining, or construction machinery. If the loader is intended for industrial warehouse or factory use, 8428.90 is more appropriate. Another common error is using 8427.20 for fork-lift trucks; 8428.90 should only be used if the machine does not function as a standard mobile work truck equipped with lifting gear.

8429.51Front-end shovel loaders84.29Bulldozers, graders, levellers, scrapers, angledozers, mechanical shovels, excavators, shovel loaders, tamping machines and road rollers, self-propelled8427.20Fork-lift and other works trucks; fitted with lifting or handling equipment, self-propelled by other than electric motor

Top exporters and importers of HS 842890 (the code used for loading machine), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 842890 (the code used for loading machine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 25% 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 842890, not only loading machine.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $2.9B
  2. 2 Germany $2.8B
  3. 3 Italy $905M

World total: $14.9B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 United States $4.0B
  2. 2 Germany $976M
  3. 3 China $683M

World total: $16.0B 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 loading machine

Brazil splits HS 8428.90 into 4 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about loading machine

What is the HS code for Loading machine?

The HS code for Loading machine is 842890 (Lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery; n.e.c. in heading no. 8425, 8426, 8427 or 8428).

How do I classify Loading machine for customs?

Loading machine is classified under HS code 842890 — Lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery; n.e.c. in heading no. 8425, 8426, 8427 or 8428. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

What is the HS code for a general loading machine?

The HS code for other lifting, handling, loading, or unloading machinery is 8428.90.

Does this code include agricultural loaders?

If the loader is a specialized attachment for a tractor, it might fall under Chapter 87 or 8432; however, a standalone mechanical loading machine for agricultural products often falls under 8428.90.

Which countries are the top exporters of loading machine (HS 842890)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 842890 (the code used for loading machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.9B, 19% of world exports), Germany ($2.8B) and Italy ($905M). World exports came to about $14.9B, 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 loading machine (HS 842890)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 842890 (the code used for loading machine) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($4.0B, 25% of world imports), Germany ($976M) and China ($683M). World imports came to about $16.0B, 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 Loading machine the same in all countries?

The base HS code 842890 for Loading machine 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 loading machine in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 842890 into 4 NCM codes, so the right one for loading machine depends on the product's details: 8428.90.10 (Lifeboat launching appliances), 8428.90.20 (Automatic guided stacker cranes), 8428.90.30 (Newspaper stackers, 80,000 copies an hour or more), 8428.90.90 (Other lifting, handling or loading machinery).