Chapter 87 covers motor vehicles for the transport of persons or goods (other than railway or tramway rolling-stock), tractors, motorcycles, bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles, as well as their parts and accessories. This chapter includes complete vehicles (such as passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles) and special purpose vehicles (such as fire-fighting vehicles, crane trucks), but excludes railway vehicles (Chapter 86) and aircraft (Chapter 88). Drive axle parts, as key components of motor vehicles, must be classified by comprehensively considering both the vehicle type and the function of the part. Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705, including braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, wheels, suspension systems, etc. Note, however, that this heading does not cover tires (Chapter 40), batteries (Chapter 85) and other goods already classified in other chapters. Drive axle parts that are dedicated for use in vehicles of headings 8701-8705 and are not more specifically named in other headings should be classified under this heading. Code 870858 is a 6-digit subheading: the first 2 digits '87' represent Chapter 87 (Vehicles and their parts and accessories); digits 3-4 '08' represent heading 8708 (Parts and accessories of motor vehicles); digits 5-6 '58' represent subheading 8708.58, i.e., 'Other parts of drive axles'. In the HS classification, digits 5-6 are internationally harmonized subheadings, while digits 7-8 (if any) are national subdivisions. 8708.58 specifically refers to parts of drive axles other than complete drive axle assemblies (8708.50), such as axle shafts, differential housings, axle housings, etc. The goods are parts of a drive axle, not a complete drive axle assembly. According to HS classification rules, if a part is dedicated to or mainly used in a drive axle and is not more specifically named in other subheadings, it should be classified under 8708.58. If it is a complete drive axle assembly, it should be classified under 8708.50; if it is a part of other vehicle systems (such as gearbox parts), it should be classified under 8708.40 or 8708.99. Therefore, correctly distinguishing between parts and assemblies, as well as identifying the system to which the part belongs, is key.
Chapter
Chapter 87 covers motor vehicles for the transport of persons or goods (other than railway or tramway rolling-stock), tractors, motorcycles, bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles, as well as their parts and accessories. This chapter includes complete vehicles (such as passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles) and special purpose vehicles (such as fire-fighting vehicles, crane trucks), but excludes railway vehicles (Chapter 86) and aircraft (Chapter 88). Drive axle parts, as key components of motor vehicles, must be classified by comprehensively considering both the vehicle type and the function of the part.
Heading
Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705, including braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, wheels, suspension systems, etc. Note, however, that this heading does not cover tires (Chapter 40), batteries (Chapter 85) and other goods already classified in other chapters. Drive axle parts that are dedicated for use in vehicles of headings 8701-8705 and are not more specifically named in other headings should be classified under this heading.
Digit Breakdown
Code 870858 is a 6-digit subheading: the first 2 digits '87' represent Chapter 87 (Vehicles and their parts and accessories); digits 3-4 '08' represent heading 8708 (Parts and accessories of motor vehicles); digits 5-6 '58' represent subheading 8708.58, i.e., 'Other parts of drive axles'. In the HS classification, digits 5-6 are internationally harmonized subheadings, while digits 7-8 (if any) are national subdivisions. 8708.58 specifically refers to parts of drive axles other than complete drive axle assemblies (8708.50), such as axle shafts, differential housings, axle housings, etc.
Classification Basis
The goods are parts of a drive axle, not a complete drive axle assembly. According to HS classification rules, if a part is dedicated to or mainly used in a drive axle and is not more specifically named in other subheadings, it should be classified under 8708.58. If it is a complete drive axle assembly, it should be classified under 8708.50; if it is a part of other vehicle systems (such as gearbox parts), it should be classified under 8708.40 or 8708.99. Therefore, correctly distinguishing between parts and assemblies, as well as identifying the system to which the part belongs, is key.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The specific name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the function of the part, such as 'drive axle half shaft', 'differential housing', etc. Material: The main material of the declared part, such as alloy steel, cast iron, etc., which affects classification and duty rate. Brand: The brand or trademark of the declared part; if there is no brand, indicate 'no brand'. Model: The model or part number of the declared part, used to identify specific specifications. Applicable Vehicle Type: The vehicle type for which the declared part is applicable, such as 'heavy-duty truck', 'off-road vehicle', etc., which must correspond to headings 8701-8705. Part Number: The unique part number provided by the manufacturer, facilitating customs verification. Function: A brief description of the role of the part in the drive axle, such as 'transmitting torque', 'supporting gears', etc. Is It an Assembly: Clearly declare whether the part is a complete drive axle assembly, to distinguish between 8708.50 and 8708.58. Customs declaration example:
Product Name: Drive axle half shaft
Material: Alloy steel
Brand: No brand
Model: AX-100
Applicable Vehicle Type: Heavy-duty truck
Part Number: 2024-001
Function: Transmit torque to wheels
Is It an Assembly: No
This declaration clearly states that the half shaft is a drive axle part, not an assembly, and is classified under 8708.58. Mistakenly classifying a complete drive axle assembly under 8708.58, when it should actually be classified under 8708.50. Ignoring the applicable vehicle type of the part, which may lead to classification under other headings (such as 8709). Material declared not specifically, affecting customs judgment on classification.
Product Name
The specific name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the function of the part, such as 'drive axle half shaft', 'differential housing', etc.
⚠️ Declaring generically as 'auto parts' or 'drive axle', leading to classification disputes.
Material
The main material of the declared part, such as alloy steel, cast iron, etc., which affects classification and duty rate.
⚠️ Writing only 'metal' without specifying the steel grade or composition.
Brand
The brand or trademark of the declared part; if there is no brand, indicate 'no brand'.
⚠️ Omitting brand information, or mistakenly filling in the manufacturer's name.
Model
The model or part number of the declared part, used to identify specific specifications.
⚠️ Incomplete model number or mismatch with the actual product.
Applicable Vehicle Type
The vehicle type for which the declared part is applicable, such as 'heavy-duty truck', 'off-road vehicle', etc., which must correspond to headings 8701-8705.
⚠️ Failing to indicate the applicable vehicle type, or incorrectly applying to non-motor vehicles.
Part Number
The unique part number provided by the manufacturer, facilitating customs verification.
⚠️ Using internal codes instead of standard part numbers, making identification impossible.
Function
A brief description of the role of the part in the drive axle, such as 'transmitting torque', 'supporting gears', etc.
⚠️ Function description too vague, such as 'used for automobiles'.
Is It an Assembly
Clearly declare whether the part is a complete drive axle assembly, to distinguish between 8708.50 and 8708.58.
⚠️ Mistakenly declaring an assembly as a part, or vice versa.
Example： Customs declaration example:
Product Name: Drive axle half shaft
Material: Alloy steel
Brand: No brand
Model: AX-100
Applicable Vehicle Type: Heavy-duty truck
Part Number: 2024-001
Function: Transmit torque to wheels
Is It an Assembly: No
This declaration clearly states that the half shaft is a drive axle part, not an assembly, and is classified under 8708.58.
Common Mistakes：
Mistakenly classifying a complete drive axle assembly under 8708.58, when it should actually be classified under 8708.50.
Ignoring the applicable vehicle type of the part, which may lead to classification under other headings (such as 8709).
Material declared not specifically, affecting customs judgment on classification.
🎯 Classification Logic
Core criteria for classification: First, confirm whether the commodity is a part of a motor vehicle (Chapter 87); second, determine whether it is dedicated to a drive axle. According to HS notes, 8708.58 includes parts of drive axles, such as axle shafts, differential housings, axle housings, etc., but excludes complete drive axle assemblies (8708.50). If a part can be used generally in other systems, it may be classified under 8708.99. At the same time, consideration must be given to whether it is already named in other headings, such as bearings (8482), gears (8483), etc. 870850 Drive axle assemblies: 870850 is a complete drive axle assembly, including axle housing, half shafts, differential, etc.; 870858 covers only its parts, and it is necessary to distinguish whether they have been assembled into a complete assembly. 870840 Gearbox parts: 870840 is dedicated to gearbox parts, while 870858 is dedicated to drive axles; the two belong to different functional systems. 870899 Other vehicle parts: 870899 covers other parts not elsewhere specified or included; if drive axle parts are not named under 870858, they might be classified here, but since 870858 specifically names them, it should take priority. 848340 Gears and gearing: If a drive axle part is a separate gear, it might be classified under 848340, but gears dedicated to drive axles should still be classified under 870858. 870870 Wheels and parts thereof: 870870 covers wheels and parts such as wheel hubs, while a drive axle half shaft, although connected to the wheel, is a drive axle part and should be classified under 870858. Is the part dedicated to a drive axle? Has it been assembled into a complete drive axle assembly? Is the part more specifically named in other headings? Is the applicable vehicle type within the range of 8701-8705? Are the material and function clearly declared?
Basis
Core criteria for classification: First, confirm whether the commodity is a part of a motor vehicle (Chapter 87); second, determine whether it is dedicated to a drive axle. According to HS notes, 8708.58 includes parts of drive axles, such as axle shafts, differential housings, axle housings, etc., but excludes complete drive axle assemblies (8708.50). If a part can be used generally in other systems, it may be classified under 8708.99. At the same time, consideration must be given to whether it is already named in other headings, such as bearings (8482), gears (8483), etc.
Confused Codes：
870850 - Drive axle assemblies
870850 is a complete drive axle assembly, including axle housing, half shafts, differential, etc.; 870858 covers only its parts, and it is necessary to distinguish whether they have been assembled into a complete assembly.
870840 - Gearbox parts
870840 is dedicated to gearbox parts, while 870858 is dedicated to drive axles; the two belong to different functional systems.
870899 - Other vehicle parts
870899 covers other parts not elsewhere specified or included; if drive axle parts are not named under 870858, they might be classified here, but since 870858 specifically names them, it should take priority.
848340 - Gears and gearing
If a drive axle part is a separate gear, it might be classified under 848340, but gears dedicated to drive axles should still be classified under 870858.
870870 - Wheels and parts thereof
870870 covers wheels and parts such as wheel hubs, while a drive axle half shaft, although connected to the wheel, is a drive axle part and should be classified under 870858.
Self-Check：
✓ Is the part dedicated to a drive axle?
✓ Has it been assembled into a complete drive axle assembly?
✓ Is the part more specifically named in other headings?
✓ Is the applicable vehicle type within the range of 8701-8705?
✓ Are the material and function clearly declared?
❓ FAQ
How do I find the HS code for drive axle parts? First confirm that the part is dedicated to a drive axle and is not a complete assembly. Then, according to HS coding rules, look under Chapter 87, heading 8708, subheading 8708.58. You can use customs HS query tools or consult a customs broker to ensure accurate classification. Are drive axle half shafts and complete drive axle assemblies classified under the same code? No, complete drive axle assemblies are classified under 8708.50, while half shafts as parts are classified under 8708.58. The key distinction is whether they have been assembled into a complete assembly; if the half shaft is imported separately, it is classified under 8708.58. If the drive axle part is made of aluminum alloy, will it affect classification? Material does not affect the first 6 digits of the HS code, but it may affect declaration elements and duty rates. 8708.58 covers drive axle parts of various materials, but the material must be clearly declared for customs verification. If a drive axle part is used in a motorcycle, which code should it be classified under? Motorcycle parts are classified under 8714, not 8708. 8708 applies only to motor vehicles of headings 8701-8705. Therefore, the vehicle type must first be confirmed before selecting the correct heading. If a drive axle gear is imported separately, should it be classified under 8708.58 or 8483? If the gear is dedicated to a drive axle and is not more specifically named under 8483, it should be classified under 8708.58. However, if the gear is a general transmission device, it may be classified under 8483. Judgment should be based on use and specificity. Is it mandatory to provide a part number when declaring drive axle parts? Yes, a part number helps customs identify and verify the goods, and it is recommended to provide the manufacturer's standard number. If there is no number, the specifications and use must be described in detail to avoid classification disputes. How do I check the import duty rate for drive axle parts? Duty rates vary by country, trade agreement, and country of origin. It is recommended to check the importing country's customs website or use official tariff databases, such as China Customs' 'Import and Export Tariff', or consult a professional customs broker. How do I distinguish drive axle parts from suspension system parts? Drive axle parts are used to transmit power, such as half shafts and differentials; suspension system parts are used for shock absorption and support, such as shock absorbers and springs. The two have different functions, and classification should be based on their primary use, respectively under 8708.58 and 8708.80, etc.
Q: How do I find the HS code for drive axle parts?
A: First confirm that the part is dedicated to a drive axle and is not a complete assembly. Then, according to HS coding rules, look under Chapter 87, heading 8708, subheading 8708.58. You can use customs HS query tools or consult a customs broker to ensure accurate classification.
Q: Are drive axle half shafts and complete drive axle assemblies classified under the same code?
A: No, complete drive axle assemblies are classified under 8708.50, while half shafts as parts are classified under 8708.58. The key distinction is whether they have been assembled into a complete assembly; if the half shaft is imported separately, it is classified under 8708.58.
Q: If the drive axle part is made of aluminum alloy, will it affect classification?
A: Material does not affect the first 6 digits of the HS code, but it may affect declaration elements and duty rates. 8708.58 covers drive axle parts of various materials, but the material must be clearly declared for customs verification.
Q: If a drive axle part is used in a motorcycle, which code should it be classified under?
A: Motorcycle parts are classified under 8714, not 8708. 8708 applies only to motor vehicles of headings 8701-8705. Therefore, the vehicle type must first be confirmed before selecting the correct heading.
Q: If a drive axle gear is imported separately, should it be classified under 8708.58 or 8483?
A: If the gear is dedicated to a drive axle and is not more specifically named under 8483, it should be classified under 8708.58. However, if the gear is a general transmission device, it may be classified under 8483. Judgment should be based on use and specificity.
Q: Is it mandatory to provide a part number when declaring drive axle parts?
A: Yes, a part number helps customs identify and verify the goods, and it is recommended to provide the manufacturer's standard number. If there is no number, the specifications and use must be described in detail to avoid classification disputes.
Q: How do I check the import duty rate for drive axle parts?
A: Duty rates vary by country, trade agreement, and country of origin. It is recommended to check the importing country's customs website or use official tariff databases, such as China Customs' 'Import and Export Tariff', or consult a professional customs broker.
Q: How do I distinguish drive axle parts from suspension system parts?
A: Drive axle parts are used to transmit power, such as half shafts and differentials; suspension system parts are used for shock absorption and support, such as shock absorbers and springs. The two have different functions, and classification should be based on their primary use, respectively under 8708.58 and 8708.80, etc.
⚠️ 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.