Product classification
HS code for Pincers: 8203.20
Tools, hand, pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools.
Classification of pincers under HS 8203.20
Pincers are classified under HS code 8203.20, a category that includes pliers, pincers, tweezers, and similar hand tools. This classification is determined by the material composition and the mechanical function of the tool. Chapter 82 of the Harmonized System covers tools, implements, cutlery, spoons, and forks of base metal. Heading 8203 specifically addresses files, rasps, pliers, and similar hand tools. Pincers are defined as gripping tools with two handles and two jaws that pivot to provide high leverage for pulling, pinching, or cutting objects, such as nails from wood. The classification 8203.20 is applied because pincers share the same mechanical design and utility as pliers and tweezers. To fall under this code, the tool must be made of base metal (usually steel or alloy steel) and be hand-operated. The presence of insulated handles for electrical work does not change this classification, as the primary function remains the mechanical gripping or cutting action of the jaws. This code is essential for international trade to distinguish these specific gripping tools from other hand tools like wrenches or hammers.
- Covers
- Carpenter's pincers
- Tower pincers (concreter's nippers)
- End-cutting pincers
- Heavy-duty nail pullers
- Farrier's pincers for horseshoeing
- Also under 8203.20
- Knipex Pliers
- Channellock Pliers
- Vise-Grip Locking Pliers
- Klein Tools Lineman's Pliers
Codes often confused with 8203.20
Common mistake. Pincers are frequently misclassified under 8205.59, which is a general category for other hand tools. However, because pincers are specifically mentioned in the explanatory notes for 8203, they must be classified there. They are also sometimes confused with 8203.10, which is reserved for files and rasps, or 8203.30, which covers metal-cutting shears.
Top exporters and importers of HS 820320 (the code used for pincers), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 820320 (the code used for pincers) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 41% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% 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 820320, not only pincers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $952M 41% of world exports
- 2 Germany $422M 18% of world exports
- 3 Taiwan* ~$177M 7.7% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $2.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $334M 16% of world imports
- 2 Germany $170M 8.4% of world imports
- 3 France $93M 4.6% of world imports
World total: $2.0B 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 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. UN Comtrade records Taiwan as "Other Asia, not elsewhere specified". Saudi Arabia's exports under that code are left out: they are far too large to be trade with Taiwan, so mostly undisclosed partners. 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 pincers
Brazil splits HS 8203.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8203.20.10Pliers, including cutting pliers
- 8203.20.90Pincers, tweezers and similar tools
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about pincers
What is the HS code for Pincers?
The HS code for Pincers is 820320 (Tools, hand; pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools). The HS code for hand-operated pincers made of base metal is 8203.20.
How do I classify Pincers for customs?
Pincers is classified under HS code 820320 — Tools, hand; pliers (including cutting pliers), pincers, tweezers and similar tools. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are pincers and pliers under the same HS code?
Yes, both pincers and pliers (including cutting pliers) are classified under the same subheading, 8203.20.
Which countries are the top exporters of pincers (HS 820320)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 820320 (the code used for pincers) in UN Comtrade data were China ($952M, 41% of world exports), Germany ($422M) and Taiwan (about $177M). World exports came to about $2.3B, 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 pincers (HS 820320)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 820320 (the code used for pincers) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($334M, 16% of world imports), Germany ($170M) and France ($93M). World imports came to about $2.0B, 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 Pincers the same in all countries?
The base HS code 820320 for Pincers 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 pincers in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 820320 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for pincers depends on the product's details: 8203.20.10 (Pliers, including cutting pliers), 8203.20.90 (Pincers, tweezers and similar tools).