Electric chain hoists are generally classified as hoists within the lifting-equipment headings rather than as general electrical machinery, because their primary function — lifting — governs over their means of power. However, the specific HTS subheading depends on capacity, speed, and design details. Importers should provide full technical specifications to their customs broker to confirm the correct 10-digit classification.

Both are manually operated mechanical hoists, but a come-along (also called a cable puller) typically uses a wire rope and is designed primarily for horizontal pulling as well as lifting, while a lever hoist uses a chain and is optimized for vertical lifting and load securing. In practice, both tend to fall within the non-hydraulic hoist heading, but the wire-rope vs. chain distinction and the pulling vs. lifting primary function can matter at the 10-digit HTS level. Specification sheets should clearly state the mechanism and primary use.