Product classification
HS code for Signal lights: 7014.00
Glassware, signalling, (not optically worked).
Classification of signal lights under HS 7014.00
HS code 7014.00 is designated for glass signaling glassware and optical elements of glass that have not been optically worked. This classification is part of Chapter 70, which covers glass and glassware. The classification logic depends on the material composition (glass) and the specific function (signaling). It is important to note that this code applies to the glass components themselves, such as lenses or reflectors used in signaling apparatus, rather than the entire electrical assembly. If the glass has been \"optically worked\" (e.g., ground or polished to specific optical tolerances), it might move to Chapter 90. However, standard molded or pressed glass used for traffic lights, railway signals, or maritime buoys remains under 7014.00. The Harmonized System distinguishes between the finished electrical signaling device and the specialized glass components that facilitate the transmission or reflection of light for signaling purposes. This code is essential for manufacturers of glass lenses who export components to assembly plants. The distinction between \"optically worked\" and \"not optically worked\" is a critical technical boundary in the HS system. Glassware in 7014.00 is typically produced by molding, pressing, or casting and does not undergo the precision surfacing required for high-end optical instruments. This classification ensures that basic safety and signaling glass is taxed and regulated differently than precision laboratory optics.
- Covers
- Traffic light lenses (glass)
- Railway signal glass discs
- Beacon lenses for maritime use
- Glass reflectors for signaling equipment
- Unworked optical glass for road signs
- Lenses for airfield signaling lamps
- Also under 7014.00
- GE Current traffic signal lenses
- Siemens railway signal glass
- Philips street light globes
- Federal Signal warning light domes
- Dialight industrial signal glass
Codes often confused with 7014.00
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs with HS code 8512.20, which covers electrical lighting or signaling equipment for motor vehicles. If you are importing the entire lamp assembly, 8512.20 is correct, but the glass lens alone falls under 7014.00. Another frequent error is using 9405.40 for other electric lamps and lighting fittings. While 9405 covers the fixture, 7014.00 is specific to the glass signaling element. Furthermore, if the glass has been polished to high optical precision, it must be classified under 9001.90 as an optical element, rather than 7014.00.
Top exporters and importers of HS 701400 (the code used for signal lights), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 701400 (the code used for signal lights) in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 26% 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 701400, not only signal lights.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Japan $122M 19% of world exports
- 2 United States $111M 18% of world exports
- 3 China $102M 16% of world exports
World total: $630M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $136M 26% of world imports
- 2 Japan $86M 16% of world imports
- 3 China $82M 15% of world imports
World total: $532M 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 code for signal lights
Brazil classifies signal lights under NCM 7014.00.00: HS 7014.00 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about signal lights
What is the HS code for Signal lights?
The HS code for Signal lights is 701400 (Glassware; signalling, (not optically worked)). The HS code for the glass components of signal lights is 7014.00, which covers signaling glassware and optical elements of glass not optically worked.
How do I classify Signal lights for customs?
Signal lights is classified under HS code 701400 — Glassware; signalling, (not optically worked). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the light bulb or the housing?
No, HS code 7014.00 only covers the glass signaling elements. The bulbs are classified under 8539 and the housings or complete assemblies are typically under 8530 or 9405.
Which countries are the top exporters of signal lights (HS 701400)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 701400 (the code used for signal lights) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($122M, 19% of world exports), the United States ($111M) and China ($102M). World exports came to about $630M, 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 signal lights (HS 701400)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 701400 (the code used for signal lights) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($136M, 26% of world imports), Japan ($86M) and China ($82M). World imports came to about $532M, 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 Signal lights the same in all countries?
The base HS code 701400 for Signal lights 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 signal lights in Brazil?
In Brazil, signal lights (HS 701400) is classified under NCM 7014.00.00.