Product classification
HS code for Steam generators: 8402.19
Boilers, vapour generating boilers, including hybrid boilers n.e.c. in heading no. 8402.
Classification of steam generators under HS 8402.19
Steam generators are classified under HS code 8402.19, which falls within Chapter 84 of the Harmonized System. This chapter encompasses nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances. Heading 8402 specifically covers steam or other vapour generating boilers. The classification logic for 8402.19 is based on the exclusion of watertube boilers (which are covered under 8402.11 and 8402.12). These generators are industrial components designed to produce steam under pressure for use in power generation, heating, or chemical processing. The classification is determined by the boiler's design, specifically its heat exchange mechanism and its capacity. Hybrid boilers, which may utilize multiple heat sources or combined technologies, are also included here if they do not fit the specific definitions of watertube or firetube boilers mentioned in other subheadings. Importers must provide detailed technical drawings and pressure ratings to ensure the equipment is not confused with auxiliary plants or central heating units.
- Covers
- Vapour generating boilers n.e.c.
- Hybrid steam generators
- Industrial steam boilers (non-watertube)
- High-pressure steam generators for industrial cleaning
- Steam boilers for power plant integration
- Also under 8402.19
- Viessmann boilers (various types)
- Buderus boilers
- Cochran boilers
- Clayton Steam Generators
Codes often confused with 8402.19
Common mistake. Steam generators are often confused with auxiliary plants for boilers under HS code 8404.10, such as economizers or air preheaters. Another common error is classifying them under 8403.10, which is strictly for central heating boilers that do not generate steam. Furthermore, if the generator is part of a specific machine (like a steam cleaner), it might be classified with the machine itself rather than as a standalone boiler under 8402.19.
Top exporters and importers of HS 840219 (the code used for steam generators), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 840219 (the code used for steam generators) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 27% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Saudi Arabia, with 8.9% 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 840219, not only steam generators.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $230M 27% of world exports
- 2 Germany $129M 15% of world exports
- 3 Italy $92M 11% of world exports
World total: $840M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Saudi Arabia $84M 8.9% of world imports
- 2 Indonesia $50M 5.2% of world imports
- 3 South Africa $46M 4.8% of world imports
World total: $951M 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 steam generators
Brazil classifies steam generators under NCM 8402.19.00: HS 8402.19 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about steam generators
What is the HS code for Steam generators?
The HS code for Steam generators is 840219 (Boilers; vapour generating boilers, including hybrid boilers n.e.c. in heading no. 8402). The HS code for steam or vapour generating boilers (other than watertube boilers) is 8402.19.
How do I classify Steam generators for customs?
Steam generators is classified under HS code 840219 — Boilers; vapour generating boilers, including hybrid boilers n.e.c. in heading no. 8402. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are electric steam generators included here?
Yes, provided they are industrial-scale vapour generating boilers. However, small domestic electro-thermic appliances are classified under 8516.
Which countries are the top exporters of steam generators (HS 840219)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 840219 (the code used for steam generators) in UN Comtrade data were China ($230M, 27% of world exports), Germany ($129M) and Italy ($92M). World exports came to about $840M, 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 steam generators (HS 840219)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 840219 (the code used for steam generators) in UN Comtrade data were Saudi Arabia ($84M, 8.9% of world imports), Indonesia ($50M) and South Africa ($46M). World imports came to about $951M, 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 Steam generators the same in all countries?
The base HS code 840219 for Steam generators 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 steam generators in Brazil?
In Brazil, steam generators (HS 840219) is classified under NCM 8402.19.00.