Chapter 85 covers electric motors, electrical equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories thereof. This chapter is one of the most technology-intensive chapters in the HS classification, covering a wide range of fields including power generation, power transformation, energy storage, power consumption, communications, and consumer electronics. Goods of this chapter generally operate on electrical or electronic principles, but exclude goods more specifically named in other chapters (such as mechanical power equipment of Chapter 84, optical instruments of Chapter 90, etc.). Heading 8502 covers generating sets and rotary converters, including generators driven by prime movers (such as diesel engines, gasoline engines, gas turbines, wind turbines, water turbines, etc.), as well as rotary converters that convert one form of electrical energy into another (such as rotary converters and rotary phase converters). This heading includes both standalone generating sets and sets integrated with internal combustion engines, but excludes electric motors (8501) and static converters (8504). The first 2 digits "85" represent Chapter 85, namely electric motors, electrical equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories thereof. The 3rd-4th digits "02" represent heading 8502, specifically generating sets and rotary converters. The 5th-6th digits "39" represent subheading 8502.39, namely "other generating sets", referring to generating sets of types other than wind-driven, compression-ignition internal combustion engine (diesel or semi-diesel), or spark-ignition internal combustion engine, such as generating sets driven by gas turbines, water turbines, steam turbines, solar power (via steam cycle), etc., as well as sets driven by other prime movers not specifically named. This commodity is classified under 8502.39 because it is a generating set, but the prime mover type does not fall under 8502.31 (wind-driven), 8502.32 (compression-ignition internal combustion engine driven), or 8502.33 (spark-ignition internal combustion engine driven). At the same time, it is not an electric motor (8501), a static converter (8504), or a prime mover itself (such as steam turbines of 8406, water turbines of 8410, etc.). Therefore, only generating sets that cannot be classified under more specific subheadings fall into this "other" subheading.
Chapter
Chapter 85 covers electric motors, electrical equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories thereof. This chapter is one of the most technology-intensive chapters in the HS classification, covering a wide range of fields including power generation, power transformation, energy storage, power consumption, communications, and consumer electronics. Goods of this chapter generally operate on electrical or electronic principles, but exclude goods more specifically named in other chapters (such as mechanical power equipment of Chapter 84, optical instruments of Chapter 90, etc.).
Heading
Heading 8502 covers generating sets and rotary converters, including generators driven by prime movers (such as diesel engines, gasoline engines, gas turbines, wind turbines, water turbines, etc.), as well as rotary converters that convert one form of electrical energy into another (such as rotary converters and rotary phase converters). This heading includes both standalone generating sets and sets integrated with internal combustion engines, but excludes electric motors (8501) and static converters (8504).
Digit Breakdown
The first 2 digits "85" represent Chapter 85, namely electric motors, electrical equipment and parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories thereof. The 3rd-4th digits "02" represent heading 8502, specifically generating sets and rotary converters. The 5th-6th digits "39" represent subheading 8502.39, namely "other generating sets", referring to generating sets of types other than wind-driven, compression-ignition internal combustion engine (diesel or semi-diesel), or spark-ignition internal combustion engine, such as generating sets driven by gas turbines, water turbines, steam turbines, solar power (via steam cycle), etc., as well as sets driven by other prime movers not specifically named.
Classification Basis
This commodity is classified under 8502.39 because it is a generating set, but the prime mover type does not fall under 8502.31 (wind-driven), 8502.32 (compression-ignition internal combustion engine driven), or 8502.33 (spark-ignition internal combustion engine driven). At the same time, it is not an electric motor (8501), a static converter (8504), or a prime mover itself (such as steam turbines of 8406, water turbines of 8410, etc.). Therefore, only generating sets that cannot be classified under more specific subheadings fall into this "other" subheading.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The standard name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the type of generating set, such as "gas turbine generating set", "hydro-generating set", etc. Use: Describe the application scenario of the generating set, such as "for backup power supply of data center", "for main power supply of ship", etc. Prime Mover Type: Clearly identify the type of prime mover driving the generator, such as gas turbine, water turbine, steam turbine, solar steam generator, etc. Rated Power: The rated output power of the generating set, usually expressed in kilowatts (kW) or megawatts (MW). Brand (Chinese and Foreign): The manufacturer or brand name; if there is no brand, declare "no brand". Model: The product model assigned by the manufacturer for uniquely identifying specifications. Output Voltage: The rated output voltage of the generating set, such as 400V, 6.6kV, etc. Composition Structure: Indicate whether the generating set is integrated or split-type, and whether it includes control cabinets, radiators, and other accessories. Product Name: Gas turbine generating set; Use: For backup power supply of natural gas pipeline booster station; Prime Mover Type: Gas turbine; Rated Power: 30MW; Brand: GE; Model: LM2500; Output Voltage: 10.5kV; Composition Structure: Integrated, including gas turbine, generator, control cabinet, and auxiliary systems. Failing to distinguish the prime mover type, misreporting a gas turbine generating set as a diesel generating set (8502.32). Incorrectly declaring goods containing only a generator (which should be classified under 8501) as a generating set. Omitting rated power or output voltage, making it impossible to determine whether it falls under 8502.39. Incorrectly classifying static converters (such as photovoltaic inverters) under 8502.39.
Product Name
The standard name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the type of generating set, such as "gas turbine generating set", "hydro-generating set", etc.
⚠️ Declaring it generically as "generating set" without reflecting the prime mover type.
Use
Describe the application scenario of the generating set, such as "for backup power supply of data center", "for main power supply of ship", etc.
⚠️ Filling in "power generation" is too broad and cannot assist in classification.
Prime Mover Type
Clearly identify the type of prime mover driving the generator, such as gas turbine, water turbine, steam turbine, solar steam generator, etc.
⚠️ Mistakenly filling in diesel engine or gasoline engine, resulting in classification errors.
Rated Power
The rated output power of the generating set, usually expressed in kilowatts (kW) or megawatts (MW).
⚠️ Omitting the power unit or filling in apparent power (kVA) without specifying.
Brand (Chinese and Foreign)
The manufacturer or brand name; if there is no brand, declare "no brand".
⚠️ Filling in only the foreign brand without providing the Chinese translation.
Model
The product model assigned by the manufacturer for uniquely identifying specifications.
⚠️ Filling in a series number or order number instead of the specific model.
Output Voltage
The rated output voltage of the generating set, such as 400V, 6.6kV, etc.
⚠️ Filling in a range value without specifying the rated value.
Composition Structure
Indicate whether the generating set is integrated or split-type, and whether it includes control cabinets, radiators, and other accessories.
⚠️ Failing to indicate whether the prime mover is included, resulting in misclassification as a generator (8501).
Example： Product Name: Gas turbine generating set; Use: For backup power supply of natural gas pipeline booster station; Prime Mover Type: Gas turbine; Rated Power: 30MW; Brand: GE; Model: LM2500; Output Voltage: 10.5kV; Composition Structure: Integrated, including gas turbine, generator, control cabinet, and auxiliary systems.
Common Mistakes：
Failing to distinguish the prime mover type, misreporting a gas turbine generating set as a diesel generating set (8502.32).
Incorrectly declaring goods containing only a generator (which should be classified under 8501) as a generating set.
Omitting rated power or output voltage, making it impossible to determine whether it falls under 8502.39.
Incorrectly classifying static converters (such as photovoltaic inverters) under 8502.39.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core criterion for classification is whether the generating set is driven by a prime mover specifically named in 8502.31, 8502.32, or 8502.33. If the prime mover is a wind turbine, compression-ignition internal combustion engine, or spark-ignition internal combustion engine, it is classified under the corresponding subheading; if it is another prime mover (such as gas turbine, water turbine, steam turbine, etc.), it is classified under 8502.39. At the same time, it is necessary to confirm whether the goods constitute a complete generating set, rather than a separate generator (8501) or prime mover (such as 8406, 8410, etc.). 8502.31 Wind-driven generating sets: The prime mover is a wind turbine, while the prime mover of 8502.39 is another type such as a gas turbine or water turbine. 8502.32 Generating sets driven by compression-ignition internal combustion engines: The prime mover is a compression-ignition internal combustion engine such as a diesel engine, which is excluded from 8502.39. 8501.61 AC/DC motors and generators: 8501 covers motors and generators themselves, while 8502.39 covers generating sets (including prime movers). 8504.40 Static converters: 8504.40 covers static electrical energy conversion devices without rotating prime movers, while 8502.39 covers rotary generating sets. 8411.82 Turbojet engines, etc.: 8411 covers prime movers themselves; if integrated with a generator, they are classified under 8502.39. Is the prime mover a wind turbine, compression-ignition, or spark-ignition internal combustion engine? Does the goods include both the generator and the prime mover as a whole? Is it merely a part of a generator or prime mover? Is it a static converter? Are the rated power and output voltage clearly specified?
Basis
The core criterion for classification is whether the generating set is driven by a prime mover specifically named in 8502.31, 8502.32, or 8502.33. If the prime mover is a wind turbine, compression-ignition internal combustion engine, or spark-ignition internal combustion engine, it is classified under the corresponding subheading; if it is another prime mover (such as gas turbine, water turbine, steam turbine, etc.), it is classified under 8502.39. At the same time, it is necessary to confirm whether the goods constitute a complete generating set, rather than a separate generator (8501) or prime mover (such as 8406, 8410, etc.).
Confused Codes：
8502.31 - Wind-driven generating sets
The prime mover is a wind turbine, while the prime mover of 8502.39 is another type such as a gas turbine or water turbine.
8502.32 - Generating sets driven by compression-ignition internal combustion engines
The prime mover is a compression-ignition internal combustion engine such as a diesel engine, which is excluded from 8502.39.
8501.61 - AC/DC motors and generators
8501 covers motors and generators themselves, while 8502.39 covers generating sets (including prime movers).
8504.40 - Static converters
8504.40 covers static electrical energy conversion devices without rotating prime movers, while 8502.39 covers rotary generating sets.
8411.82 - Turbojet engines, etc.
8411 covers prime movers themselves; if integrated with a generator, they are classified under 8502.39.
Self-Check：
✓ Is the prime mover a wind turbine, compression-ignition, or spark-ignition internal combustion engine?
✓ Does the goods include both the generator and the prime mover as a whole?
✓ Is it merely a part of a generator or prime mover?
✓ Is it a static converter?
✓ Are the rated power and output voltage clearly specified?
❓ FAQ
How to check the import tariff rate for 8502.39? You can use the official website of the General Administration of Customs of China, the International Trade Single Window, or third-party query platforms, enter HS code 8502.39 and the country of origin, to obtain the MFN rate, general rate, or agreement rate. Note that tariff rates may be adjusted according to policy, and it is recommended to rely on the customs system feedback at the time of declaration. Which HS code should a gas turbine generating set be classified under? If the gas turbine is the prime mover and is integrated with the generator, it should be classified under 8502.39. However, if the gas turbine is imported separately, it is classified under 8411; if the generator is imported separately, it is classified under 8501. Can solar generating sets be classified under 8502.39? Solar power generation is usually through photovoltaic cells (8541) or solar steam cycle systems. If it is a generating set driven by a solar steam turbine, it can be classified under 8502.39; if it is a photovoltaic inverter, it is classified under 8504.40. What is the main difference between 8502.39 and 8502.32? The difference lies in the prime mover type: 8502.32 is driven by a compression-ignition internal combustion engine (diesel engine), while 8502.39 is driven by other prime movers (such as gas turbines, water turbines). Proof of prime mover type is required at the time of declaration. What are the customs declaration elements for generating sets? Usually include product name, use, prime mover type, rated power, brand, model, output voltage, composition structure, etc. Specific requirements are subject to customs requirements; it is recommended to refer to the "Catalogue of Specifications for Customs Declaration of Import and Export Commodities of the People's Republic of China". What regulatory documents are required for importing generating sets? It may involve import licenses for mechanical and electrical products, energy efficiency labels, CCC certification, etc., depending on the type and use of the generating set. It is recommended to consult customs or a professional customs broker in advance. What is the export tax rebate rate for 8502.39? The export tax rebate rate is periodically adjusted by the State Administration of Taxation. It can be obtained by querying the latest export tax rebate rate database or consulting the tax authorities. Generally, the export tax rebate rate for generating sets is relatively high, but the actual policy shall prevail. What are the consequences of mistakenly declaring 8502.39 as 8502.32? It may lead to classification errors, affecting the applicable tariff rate and regulatory document requirements, and may even result in customs administrative penalties. If an error is discovered, an application for amendment of the declaration form or voluntary disclosure should be made to customs in a timely manner to mitigate penalties.
Q: How to check the import tariff rate for 8502.39?
A: You can use the official website of the General Administration of Customs of China, the International Trade Single Window, or third-party query platforms, enter HS code 8502.39 and the country of origin, to obtain the MFN rate, general rate, or agreement rate. Note that tariff rates may be adjusted according to policy, and it is recommended to rely on the customs system feedback at the time of declaration.
Q: Which HS code should a gas turbine generating set be classified under?
A: If the gas turbine is the prime mover and is integrated with the generator, it should be classified under 8502.39. However, if the gas turbine is imported separately, it is classified under 8411; if the generator is imported separately, it is classified under 8501.
Q: Can solar generating sets be classified under 8502.39?
A: Solar power generation is usually through photovoltaic cells (8541) or solar steam cycle systems. If it is a generating set driven by a solar steam turbine, it can be classified under 8502.39; if it is a photovoltaic inverter, it is classified under 8504.40.
Q: What is the main difference between 8502.39 and 8502.32?
A: The difference lies in the prime mover type: 8502.32 is driven by a compression-ignition internal combustion engine (diesel engine), while 8502.39 is driven by other prime movers (such as gas turbines, water turbines). Proof of prime mover type is required at the time of declaration.
Q: What are the customs declaration elements for generating sets?
A: Usually include product name, use, prime mover type, rated power, brand, model, output voltage, composition structure, etc. Specific requirements are subject to customs requirements; it is recommended to refer to the "Catalogue of Specifications for Customs Declaration of Import and Export Commodities of the People's Republic of China".
Q: What regulatory documents are required for importing generating sets?
A: It may involve import licenses for mechanical and electrical products, energy efficiency labels, CCC certification, etc., depending on the type and use of the generating set. It is recommended to consult customs or a professional customs broker in advance.
Q: What is the export tax rebate rate for 8502.39?
A: The export tax rebate rate is periodically adjusted by the State Administration of Taxation. It can be obtained by querying the latest export tax rebate rate database or consulting the tax authorities. Generally, the export tax rebate rate for generating sets is relatively high, but the actual policy shall prevail.
Q: What are the consequences of mistakenly declaring 8502.39 as 8502.32?
A: It may lead to classification errors, affecting the applicable tariff rate and regulatory document requirements, and may even result in customs administrative penalties. If an error is discovered, an application for amendment of the declaration form or voluntary disclosure should be made to customs in a timely manner to mitigate penalties.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.