Product classification
HS code for Pocket knives: 8211.93
Knives, with cutting blades, (having other than fixed blades), serrated or not, excluding knives and blades of heading no. 8208.
Classification of pocket knives under HS 8211.93
Pocket knives are classified under HS code 8211.93, which falls under the broader heading 8211 for knives with cutting blades, whether or not serrated. The classification logic for this specific code relies on the mechanical design of the knife; specifically, it covers knives with blades that are not fixed. This includes folding mechanisms where the blade retracts into the handle. Chapter 82 of the Harmonized System covers tools, implements, and cutlery of base metal. Heading 8211 is structured to distinguish between knives with fixed blades (such as kitchen or hunting knives) and those with folding blades. Subheading 8211.93 is the specific designation for these portable, folding cutting instruments. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the knife is a simple single-blade penknife or a more complex multi-tool, provided the primary function is that of a knife and the blades are not fixed in a permanent position. The distinction is crucial for customs purposes because fixed-blade knives often carry different duty rates and regulatory requirements compared to folding pocket knives.
- Covers
- Folding pocket knives
- Multi-tool knives with retractable blades
- Penknives
- Switchblades and spring-assisted folding knives
- Lock-back folding knives
- Also under 8211.93
- Swiss Army Knife
- Leatherman multi-tool
- Stanley utility knife
- Benchmade Bugout folding knife
- Spyderco Paramilitary 2
Codes often confused with 8211.93
Common mistake. Pocket knives are often confused with fixed-blade knives classified under HS code 8211.92. The primary difference is the folding mechanism; 8211.92 is strictly for knives with stationary blades. Another common error is classifying multi-tools under 8214.10, which covers paper knives and letter openers. If the multi-tool's primary component is a cutting blade, 8211.93 is the correct classification. Furthermore, decorative knives without a sharpened edge might be misclassified as ornaments under Chapter 83, but functional knives always belong in Chapter 82.
Top exporters and importers of HS 821193 (the code used for pocket knives), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 821193 (the code used for pocket knives) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 31% 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 821193, not only pocket knives.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $259M 29% of world exports
- 2 Germany $109M 12% of world exports
- 3 Switzerland $95M 11% of world exports
World total: $880M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $255M 31% of world imports
- 2 Germany $110M 13% of world imports
- 3 Canada $43M 5.1% of world imports
World total: $827M 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 pocket knives
Brazil splits HS 8211.93 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8211.93.10Pruning knives and their parts
- 8211.93.20Penknives with one or more blades
- 8211.93.90Other knives with non-fixed blades
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about pocket knives
What is the HS code for Pocket knives?
The HS code for Pocket knives is 821193 (Knives; with cutting blades, (having other than fixed blades), serrated or not, excluding knives and blades of heading no. 8208). The HS code for pocket knives with folding or non-fixed blades is 8211.93.
How do I classify Pocket knives for customs?
Pocket knives is classified under HS code 821193 — Knives; with cutting blades, (having other than fixed blades), serrated or not, excluding knives and blades of heading no. 8208. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include Swiss Army knives?
Yes, Swiss Army knives and similar multi-tools are classified under 8211.93 because the knife blade is considered the essential character of the tool.
Which countries are the top exporters of pocket knives (HS 821193)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 821193 (the code used for pocket knives) in UN Comtrade data were China ($259M, 29% of world exports), Germany ($109M) and Switzerland ($95M). World exports came to about $880M, 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 pocket knives (HS 821193)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 821193 (the code used for pocket knives) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($255M, 31% of world imports), Germany ($110M) and Canada ($43M). World imports came to about $827M, 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 Pocket knives the same in all countries?
The base HS code 821193 for Pocket knives 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 pocket knives in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 821193 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for pocket knives depends on the product's details: 8211.93.10 (Pruning knives and their parts), 8211.93.20 (Penknives with one or more blades), 8211.93.90 (Other knives with non-fixed blades).