1. HS Code Structure Breakdown
The hierarchical classification of this HS code under the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System is as follows:
| Level | Code | Description |
| Section | XVI | Machinery and Mechanical Appliances; Electrical Equipment |
| Chapter | 84 | Nuclear Reactors, Boilers, Machinery and Mechanical Appliances; Parts thereof |
| Heading | 8467 | Tools for working in the hand, pneumatic, hydraulic or with self-contained electric or non-electric motor, and parts thereof |
| Subheading | 8467.81 | Chain saws (with self-contained motor) |
| Full Code | 8467.81.00 | Chain saws — hand-held power tools with self-contained electric or non-electric motor |
2. Overview
HS code 8467.81.00 specifically classifies chain saws — hand-held motorised cutting tools using a rotating chain fitted with cutting teeth. Chain saws may be petrol/gasoline-powered, electric (corded), or battery-powered (cordless). They are used in forestry, tree surgery, construction, and domestic wood cutting.
3. Examples of Goods Classified Under 8467.81.00
The following examples illustrate the types of goods classified under this HS code:
| Product / Item | Description |
| Petrol/Gasoline Chainsaw | 2-stroke engine chainsaw for professional forestry use |
| Electric Corded Chainsaw | Mains-powered electric chainsaw for domestic use |
| Battery-Powered Cordless Chainsaw | 18V/40V Li-ion chainsaw for light domestic/garden use |
| Professional Felling Chainsaw | High-displacement petrol chainsaw for timber felling |
| Top-Handle Arborist Chainsaw | Compact chainsaw for tree surgery in elevated positions |
| Pole-Mounted Chainsaw | Chainsaw head on extension pole for branch pruning |
| Mini/Compact Chainsaw | Small handheld chainsaw for pruning and light cutting |
4. Related HS Codes
The following HS codes are related and may be relevant depending on specific product characteristics:
| HS Code | Description |
| 8467.89.00 | Other hand tools with motor (trimmers, hedge cutters) |
| 8467.91.00 | Parts for pneumatic hand tools |
| 8467.99.00 | Other parts for power hand tools |
| 8433.59.00 | Other harvesting machinery (industrial wood cutting) |
| 8202.99.00 | Hand saws (non-powered) |
5. Key Classification Decision Table
Use this table to determine whether goods should be classified under 8467.81.00 or an alternative code:
| Feature | 8467.81.00 Applies | Other Codes Apply |
| Cutting mechanism | Revolving chain with cutting teeth | Circular saw → 8467.22; Reciprocating saw → 8467.89 |
| Power source | Electric motor or combustion engine (hand-held) | Industrial fixed-position chainsaw → 8465.xx |
| Hand-held | Yes — portable hand-held tool | Mounted/fixed chainsaw machine → 8465.xx |
| Non-motorised | Must have self-contained motor | Manual hand saw → 8202.xx |
6. Duty & Trade Considerations
General trade and tariff considerations for HS code 8467.81.00:
| Aspect | Detail |
| Chapter | Chapter 84 — Machinery & Mechanical Appliances |
| WCO Section | Section XVI |
| EAC/Uganda CET | 0–10% CET |
| VAT (Uganda) | 18% VAT |
| Safety Requirements | Chain brake, kickback protection; operator training recommended |
| Common Importers | Hardware stores, forestry contractors, timber merchants |
Document prepared for customs and trade classification reference purposes only.