Product classification

HS code for Magneto-dynamo: 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 magneto-dynamo under HS 8511.20

The magneto-dynamo is classified under HS code 8511.20, a subheading that specifically identifies ignition magnetos and magneto-dynamos. These devices are essential for the operation of certain internal combustion engines, particularly in aviation, marine, and vintage automotive applications. A magneto-dynamo functions by generating high-voltage pulses synchronized with the engine's cycle to initiate combustion. The classification logic follows Chapter 85's focus on electrical machinery and equipment. Specifically, heading 8511 is dedicated to electrical ignition or starting equipment. Even though a magneto-dynamo is technically a type of generator, it is excluded from the general generator heading (8501) because its function is specialized for engine ignition. The Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) for heading 8511 clarify that this category includes magnetos consisting of an armature winding and a rotating magnet, or a stationary magnet and a rotating armature, often combined with a distributor. By placing these items in 8511.20, the HS system ensures that all primary ignition-generating components are grouped together, facilitating uniform tariff application and trade statistics. This classification applies regardless of whether the device is used for spark-ignition or compression-ignition engines, provided it serves the ignition or starting function.

Covers
  • Magneto-dynamos for vintage automobiles
  • Ignition magnetos for aircraft engines
  • Combined ignition and lighting units for small engines
  • High-tension magnetos
  • Low-tension magnetos
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. Magneto-dynamos are frequently misclassified under heading 8501, which covers general-purpose electric motors and generators. While a magneto-dynamo does generate electricity, its specific design for engine ignition makes heading 8511 the correct choice. Another common error is using 8511.50, which covers "other generators" (such as alternators). However, 8511.20 is more specific for magnetos and magneto-dynamos. Importers should also avoid heading 8409, which is for general engine parts, as the electrical nature of the magneto requires classification in Chapter 85.

85.01Electric motors and generators (excluding generating sets)85.11Ignition or starting equipment; used for spark-ignition or compression-ignition internal combustion engines; generators and cut outs used in conjunction with such engines8511.50Ignition or starting equipment; generators n.e.c. in heading no. 8511, of a kind used for spark or compression-ignition internal combustion engines84.09Parts suitable for use solely or principally with the engines of heading no. 8407 or 8408

Top exporters and importers of HS 851120 (the code used for magneto-dynamo), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851120 (the code used for magneto-dynamo) 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 magneto-dynamo.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $38M
  2. 2 India $28M
  3. 3 United States $27M

World total: $191M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Thailand $20M
  2. 2 United States $16M
  3. 3 Vietnam* ~$11M

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 magneto-dynamo

Brazil splits HS 8511.20 into 2 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 magneto-dynamo

What is the HS code for Magneto-dynamo?

The HS code for Magneto-dynamo 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 a magneto-dynamo is 8511.20, which is the specific subheading for ignition magnetos and magneto-dynamos.

How do I classify Magneto-dynamo for customs?

Magneto-dynamo 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.

Is a magneto-dynamo the same as an alternator?

No, while both generate electricity, a magneto-dynamo is specifically designed to provide high-voltage pulses for engine ignition, whereas an alternator (usually 8511.50) provides a steady current to charge a battery and power vehicle electronics.

Which countries are the top exporters of magneto-dynamo (HS 851120)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851120 (the code used for magneto-dynamo) 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 magneto-dynamo (HS 851120)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 851120 (the code used for magneto-dynamo) 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 Magneto-dynamo the same in all countries?

The base HS code 851120 for Magneto-dynamo 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 magneto-dynamo in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 851120 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for magneto-dynamo depends on the product's details: 8511.20.10 (Ignition magnetos), 8511.20.90 (Magneto-dynamos and magnetic flywheels).