Product classification
HS code for Roadheader: 8430.31
Coal or rock cutters and tunnelling machinery, self-propelled.
Classification of roadheader under HS 8430.31
A roadheader is classified under HS code 8430.31, which specifically covers self-propelled coal or rock cutters and tunneling machinery. This classification is based on the machine's primary mechanical function as an excavating and boring tool used in underground mining and civil engineering. Roadheaders are heavy-duty machines equipped with a rotating cutting head mounted on a boom, which is used to excavate rock or coal. The Harmonized System distinguishes between general-purpose excavators (heading 8429) and specialized cutting or tunneling machinery (heading 8430). Because a roadheader is designed specifically for the continuous cutting of hard materials in a tunneling or mining context, it falls under heading 8430. The sub-heading 8430.31 is designated for units that are self-propelled, typically moving on crawler tracks to navigate the work face. This classification follows GRI 1, as the product is specifically named in the sub-heading description for tunneling machinery.
- Covers
- Boom-type roadheaders
- Axial head roadheaders
- Transverse head roadheaders
- Self-propelled tunneling boring machine (TBM) components
- Crawler-mounted rock cutters
- Also under 8430.31
- Herrenknecht TBMs
- Sandvik MT720
- Epiroc Boltec S
- Joy Global 12CM30
- Robbins Main Beam TBM
Codes often confused with 8430.31
Common mistake. Roadheaders are often confused with HS code 8429.52, which covers mechanical shovels and excavators with a 360-degree revolving superstructure. While both machines excavate, the roadheader's specialized cutting head and tunneling application distinguish it from general excavators. Additionally, they may be misclassified under 8430.39, which is the code for rock cutters that are not self-propelled. Importers must verify the propulsion system to ensure the correct sub-heading is applied.
Top exporters and importers of HS 843031 (the code used for roadheader), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 843031 (the code used for roadheader) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 45% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Italy, 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 843031, not only roadheader.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $793M 45% of world exports
- 2 Finland $352M 20% of world exports
- 3 Sweden $151M 8.6% of world exports
World total: $1.8B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Italy $152M 11% of world imports
- 2 Canada $131M 9.6% of world imports
- 3 India $103M 7.6% of world imports
World total: $1.4B 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 roadheader
Brazil splits HS 8430.31 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8430.31.10Self-propelled coal or rock cutters
- 8430.31.90Self-propelled tunnelling machinery
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about roadheader
What is the HS code for Roadheader?
The HS code for Roadheader is 843031 (Coal or rock cutters and tunnelling machinery; self-propelled). The HS code for a self-propelled roadheader used in mining or tunneling is 8430.31.
How do I classify Roadheader for customs?
Roadheader is classified under HS code 843031 — Coal or rock cutters and tunnelling machinery; self-propelled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include manual rock drills?
No, manual or hand-held rock drills are typically classified under heading 8467 if they are pneumatic or have a self-contained non-electric motor.
Which countries are the top exporters of roadheader (HS 843031)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 843031 (the code used for roadheader) in UN Comtrade data were China ($793M, 45% of world exports), Finland ($352M) and Sweden ($151M). World exports came to about $1.8B, 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 roadheader (HS 843031)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 843031 (the code used for roadheader) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($152M, 11% of world imports), Canada ($131M) and India ($103M). World imports came to about $1.4B, 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.
Is the HS code for Roadheader the same in all countries?
The base HS code 843031 for Roadheader 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 roadheader in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 843031 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for roadheader depends on the product's details: 8430.31.10 (Self-propelled coal or rock cutters), 8430.31.90 (Self-propelled tunnelling machinery).