Product classification
HS code for Vehicle locks: 8301.20
Locks, of a kind used for motor vehicles (key, combination or electrically operated), of base metal.
Classification of vehicle locks under HS 8301.20
Vehicle locks are classified under HS code 8301.20. This classification is governed by Chapter 83, which encompasses miscellaneous articles of base metal. Heading 8301 covers padlocks, locks (key, combination, or electrically operated), clasps, and frames with clasps, incorporating locks, of base metal. Subheading 8301.20 is specifically designated for locks of a kind used for motor vehicles. This classification is a prime example of the "parts of general use" rule in the Harmonized System. According to Section XV Note 2, articles of heading 8301 are considered parts of general use and are therefore excluded from the chapters covering vehicles (Chapter 87), even if they are clearly designed for use in a car. The lock must be made of base metal (such as steel, brass, or zinc alloy) to fall under this code. If the lock is part of a complex electronic keyless entry system, the mechanical lock cylinder itself remains here, while the electronic transmitter may be classified elsewhere.
- Covers
- Mechanical car door locks
- Ignition locks and cylinders
- Trunk or boot lock assemblies
- Glove compartment locks
- Fuel filler cap locks of base metal
- Electrically operated central locking actuators
- Also under 8301.20
- Bosch ignition lock
- Hella car door lock
- Valeo trunk lock
- U-Haul trailer hitch lock
- Ford OEM door lock actuator
Codes often confused with 8301.20
Common mistake. The most frequent error is attempting to classify vehicle locks under HS code 8708, which covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles. However, because locks are defined as "parts of general use" under Section XV, they must stay in 8301. Another misclassification involves 8512.30, which covers electrical signaling equipment; while central locking systems involve electrical signals, the physical locking mechanism is classified in 8301.20. Additionally, locks made entirely of plastic would be classified in Chapter 39.
Top exporters and importers of HS 830120 (the code used for vehicle locks), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 830120 (the code used for vehicle locks) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 24% 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 830120, not only vehicle locks.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $506M 14% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $468M 13% of world exports
- 3 Germany $427M 12% of world exports
World total: $3.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $863M 24% of world imports
- 2 Germany $459M 13% of world imports
- 3 Japan $193M 5.5% of world imports
World total: $3.5B 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 vehicle locks
Brazil classifies vehicle locks under NCM 8301.20.00: HS 8301.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about vehicle locks
What is the HS code for Vehicle locks?
The HS code for Vehicle locks is 830120 (Locks; of a kind used for motor vehicles (key, combination or electrically operated), of base metal). The HS code for locks used in motor vehicles, made of base metal, is 8301.20.
How do I classify Vehicle locks for customs?
Vehicle locks is classified under HS code 830120 — Locks; of a kind used for motor vehicles (key, combination or electrically operated), of base metal. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this include electronic key fobs?
No, electronic key fobs or remote transmitters are typically classified under HS code 8526.92 as radio remote control apparatus.
Which countries are the top exporters of vehicle locks (HS 830120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 830120 (the code used for vehicle locks) in UN Comtrade data were China ($506M, 14% of world exports), Mexico ($468M) and Germany ($427M). World exports came to about $3.6B, 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 vehicle locks (HS 830120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 830120 (the code used for vehicle locks) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($863M, 24% of world imports), Germany ($459M) and Japan ($193M). World imports came to about $3.5B, 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 Vehicle locks the same in all countries?
The base HS code 830120 for Vehicle locks 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 vehicle locks in Brazil?
In Brazil, vehicle locks (HS 830120) is classified under NCM 8301.20.00.