HS Code for Diesel and LPG Forklifts
The HS Code for diesel and lpg forklifts is 842720. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is Free.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 842720 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | Free |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 0% |
| Chapter | 84 |
| Heading | 8427 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Other self-propelled trucks (diesel/LPG forklifts)
Self-propelled diesel or LPG forklifts are duty-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical additional costs, beyond the invoice price, when importing HTS 842720 diesel/LPG forklifts into the United States?
Major cost additions include a 0% to 2.5% Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) import duty on the customs value, as well as a 25% Section 301 tariff on goods of Chinese origin. You must also budget for a 0.3464% Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) and potential harbor maintenance fees if arriving by sea, which collectively add approximately 0.5-1% to the landed cost.
What specific regulatory compliance is required for importing diesel and LPG forklifts under HTS 8427.20?
Importers must ensure forklifts meet EPA emission standards for diesel engines and OSHA/ANSI safety standards for design and operation. For LPG models, compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for the fuel system is also mandatory. You must provide a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin and may need an EPA Declaration of Conformity at entry.
What specific packaging and securing methods are required for shipping diesel and LPG forklifts in a shipping container?
Forklifts must be fully drained of fuel and the LPG tank must be purged and valve-sealed. The machine must be securely chocked and lashed to the container floor using heavy-duty ratchet straps, and the mast should be lowered to its minimum height to prevent shifting during transit.
Seasonal Import Trends for Forklifts
Imports of forklifts under HTS 842720 typically show a strong seasonal pattern, with peak volumes arriving in Q2 and Q3 (April-September) to meet demand for the peak summer construction, warehousing, and retail seasons. U.S. import data from recent years shows a consistent 20-35% increase in monthly shipment values during these quarters compared to the winter months. This cyclicality is driven by infrastructure projects and inventory building ahead of the holiday shipping season. Importers should plan for potential congestion and longer lead times at ports during these high-volume periods.
Compliance Notes for Forklift Imports
Forklifts under 8427.20 are subject to U.S. EPA Clean Air Act regulations for new nonroad compression-ignition engines. Importers must ensure engines are certified to the applicable emission standards (e.g., 40 CFR Part 1039) and properly labeled. Additionally, if equipped with a spark-ignition LPG engine, they may fall under 8427.20 but must also comply with separate evaporative and exhaust emission controls (40 CFR Part 1054). Always verify the exact engine type and obtain the manufacturer's Engine Family Name and Emission Control Information label for customs clearance.
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