Chapter 87 covers all motor vehicles, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles and other land vehicles and their parts and accessories, other than railway or tramway rolling-stock. It includes automobiles, buses, trucks, special purpose vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, wheelchairs, etc., as well as parts and accessories specially designed or principally designed for these vehicles. Note, however, that certain parts, if they are goods named in other chapters (such as rubber tires, glass, electrical equipment, etc.), are classified in those other chapters. Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), including braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, wheels, suspension systems, steering systems, body parts, etc. However, this heading does not include: tires (Chapter 40), glass (Chapter 70), electrical equipment (Chapter 85), engine parts (headings 8407-8409), etc. Suspension crossmembers, as key structural components of the suspension system, are generally classified under this heading. The first 2 digits 87: indicates Chapter 87, i.e., vehicles and their parts and accessories. Digits 3-4, 08: indicates heading 8708, i.e., parts and accessories of motor vehicles. Digits 5-6, 87: indicates subheading 8708.87, which specifically covers suspension systems and their parts (including suspension crossmembers). In the HS classification, subheadings under 8708 are divided by part function, such as 8708.10 bumpers, 8708.30 brakes, 8708.40 gearboxes, 8708.50 drive axles, 8708.80 suspension systems, etc. Subheading 8708.87 is the dedicated subheading for suspension systems and their parts, and suspension crossmembers, as structural components of the suspension system, should be classified under this subheading. A suspension crossmember is a component of the suspension system, used to connect the wheels to the vehicle body, transmit loads and maintain wheel alignment. It is a part of a motor vehicle and is not more specifically named in other headings, so it is classified under 8708.87. It should not be classified under 8708.99 (other parts), because 8708.87 explicitly covers suspension systems and their parts; nor should it be classified under 8708.50 (drive axles), because a drive axle is a power-transmitting component, whereas a suspension crossmember mainly serves a supporting and guiding function.
Chapter
Chapter 87 covers all motor vehicles, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles and other land vehicles and their parts and accessories, other than railway or tramway rolling-stock. It includes automobiles, buses, trucks, special purpose vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, wheelchairs, etc., as well as parts and accessories specially designed or principally designed for these vehicles. Note, however, that certain parts, if they are goods named in other chapters (such as rubber tires, glass, electrical equipment, etc.), are classified in those other chapters.
Heading
Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), including braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, wheels, suspension systems, steering systems, body parts, etc. However, this heading does not include: tires (Chapter 40), glass (Chapter 70), electrical equipment (Chapter 85), engine parts (headings 8407-8409), etc. Suspension crossmembers, as key structural components of the suspension system, are generally classified under this heading.
Digit Breakdown
The first 2 digits 87: indicates Chapter 87, i.e., vehicles and their parts and accessories. Digits 3-4, 08: indicates heading 8708, i.e., parts and accessories of motor vehicles. Digits 5-6, 87: indicates subheading 8708.87, which specifically covers suspension systems and their parts (including suspension crossmembers). In the HS classification, subheadings under 8708 are divided by part function, such as 8708.10 bumpers, 8708.30 brakes, 8708.40 gearboxes, 8708.50 drive axles, 8708.80 suspension systems, etc. Subheading 8708.87 is the dedicated subheading for suspension systems and their parts, and suspension crossmembers, as structural components of the suspension system, should be classified under this subheading.
Classification Basis
A suspension crossmember is a component of the suspension system, used to connect the wheels to the vehicle body, transmit loads and maintain wheel alignment. It is a part of a motor vehicle and is not more specifically named in other headings, so it is classified under 8708.87. It should not be classified under 8708.99 (other parts), because 8708.87 explicitly covers suspension systems and their parts; nor should it be classified under 8708.50 (drive axles), because a drive axle is a power-transmitting component, whereas a suspension crossmember mainly serves a supporting and guiding function.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The standard name of the declared commodity, and a standard Chinese or English name should be used, such as "Suspension beam". Brand: Fill in the brand of the commodity; if there is no brand, fill in "no brand". The brand affects price and classification and must be declared truthfully. Model: Fill in the commodity model or part number to identify the specific specification. Applicable Vehicle Model: Fill in the vehicle type or specific model to which the part applies, such as "small passenger car" or "heavy truck". Material: Fill in the main material, such as "steel" or "aluminum alloy". Dimensions: Fill in the main dimensional parameters, such as length, width, thickness, etc. Whether Assembly: State whether it is a single part or an assembly, such as "single crossmember" or "suspension assembly". Use: Briefly describe the use, such as "used to connect the wheels to the vehicle body and provide support". Customs declaration example:
Product Name: Suspension beam
Brand: No brand
Model: SB-2023-01
Applicable Vehicle Model: Small passenger car
Material: Steel
Dimensions: Length 120 cm, width 15 cm, height 10 cm
Whether Assembly: Single part
Use: Used in automobile suspension systems to connect the wheels to the vehicle body and transmit loads.
HS Code: 8708.87.00 Mistakenly classifying the suspension crossmember under 8708.99 (other parts), ignoring the explicit naming in 8708.87. False declaration of material, such as declaring aluminum alloy as steel, affecting classification. Failure to distinguish between parts and assemblies; if it is a suspension assembly, it may be classified under a different subheading.
Product Name
The standard name of the declared commodity, and a standard Chinese or English name should be used, such as "Suspension beam".
⚠️ Using colloquial names such as "crossbeam" or "frame rail", resulting in unclear classification.
Brand
Fill in the brand of the commodity; if there is no brand, fill in "no brand". The brand affects price and classification and must be declared truthfully.
⚠️ The brand does not match the actual product, or the brand is omitted.
Model
Fill in the commodity model or part number to identify the specific specification.
⚠️ The model is incomplete or incorrect.
Applicable Vehicle Model
Fill in the vehicle type or specific model to which the part applies, such as "small passenger car" or "heavy truck".
⚠️ Filling in "automobile" in general terms without specifying the specific type.
Material
Fill in the main material, such as "steel" or "aluminum alloy".
⚠️ The material is inaccurate, such as "metal" being too general.
Dimensions
Fill in the main dimensional parameters, such as length, width, thickness, etc.
⚠️ The units of dimensions are inconsistent or omitted.
Whether Assembly
State whether it is a single part or an assembly, such as "single crossmember" or "suspension assembly".
⚠️ Confusing parts with assemblies, leading to classification errors.
Use
Briefly describe the use, such as "used to connect the wheels to the vehicle body and provide support".
⚠️ The use description is too simple, such as "for automobile use".
Example: Customs declaration example:
Product Name: Suspension beam
Brand: No brand
Model: SB-2023-01
Applicable Vehicle Model: Small passenger car
Material: Steel
Dimensions: Length 120 cm, width 15 cm, height 10 cm
Whether Assembly: Single part
Use: Used in automobile suspension systems to connect the wheels to the vehicle body and transmit loads.
HS Code: 8708.87.00
Common Mistakes:
Mistakenly classifying the suspension crossmember under 8708.99 (other parts), ignoring the explicit naming in 8708.87.
False declaration of material, such as declaring aluminum alloy as steel, affecting classification.
Failure to distinguish between parts and assemblies; if it is a suspension assembly, it may be classified under a different subheading.
🎯 Classification Logic
Core basis for classification: According to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System and its notes, heading 8708 covers motor vehicle parts, and subheading 8708.87 specifically refers to suspension systems and their parts. As a structural component of the suspension system, a suspension crossmember functions to support the vehicle body, transmit loads and maintain wheel alignment, which conforms to the description of 8708.87. When classifying, it is necessary to confirm: 1) whether it is a part of a motor vehicle; 2) whether it is specially designed or principally designed for the suspension system; 3) whether it is more specifically named in other headings (such as iron or steel articles, general-purpose parts, etc.). If it is a general-purpose iron or steel article, it may be classified under Chapter 73. 8708.80 Suspension systems and their parts (old code): Before HS2017, suspension systems were classified under 8708.80, but after the 2017 version, 8708.87 was subdivided. At present, 8708.80 is no longer used, and attention should be paid to version differences. 8708.99 Other parts: 8708.99 is a residual subheading, used only when parts are not named in 8708.10-8708.94. Suspension crossmembers are explicitly covered in 8708.87, so they should not be classified under 8708.99. 8708.50 Drive axles and their parts: A drive axle is a power-transmitting component, including the final drive, differential, etc.; a suspension crossmember mainly serves a supporting and guiding function and does not transmit power. 8708.94 Steering systems and their parts: Steering system parts such as steering columns and steering gears have different functions from suspension crossmembers. A suspension crossmember belongs to the suspension system, so it is classified under 8708.87. 7326.90 Other articles of iron or steel: If the suspension crossmember is a general-purpose iron or steel article not specially designed for motor vehicles, it may be classified under 7326.90. However, because it is specially designed for the suspension system, it is classified under 8708.87. Confirm whether the commodity is specially designed or principally designed for motor vehicle suspension systems. Confirm whether it is specifically named in 8708.87 rather than in other subheadings. Confirm whether the material affects classification (for example, whether it is a general-purpose iron or steel article). Confirm whether it contains other functional components (such as whether it has bushings, ball joints, etc.). Confirm whether the HS version is 2017 or later, so as to correctly use 8708.87.
Basis
Core basis for classification: According to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System and its notes, heading 8708 covers motor vehicle parts, and subheading 8708.87 specifically refers to suspension systems and their parts. As a structural component of the suspension system, a suspension crossmember functions to support the vehicle body, transmit loads and maintain wheel alignment, which conforms to the description of 8708.87. When classifying, it is necessary to confirm: 1) whether it is a part of a motor vehicle; 2) whether it is specially designed or principally designed for the suspension system; 3) whether it is more specifically named in other headings (such as iron or steel articles, general-purpose parts, etc.). If it is a general-purpose iron or steel article, it may be classified under Chapter 73.
Confused Codes:
8708.80 - Suspension systems and their parts (old code)
Before HS2017, suspension systems were classified under 8708.80, but after the 2017 version, 8708.87 was subdivided. At present, 8708.80 is no longer used, and attention should be paid to version differences.
8708.99 - Other parts
8708.99 is a residual subheading, used only when parts are not named in 8708.10-8708.94. Suspension crossmembers are explicitly covered in 8708.87, so they should not be classified under 8708.99.
8708.50 - Drive axles and their parts
A drive axle is a power-transmitting component, including the final drive, differential, etc.; a suspension crossmember mainly serves a supporting and guiding function and does not transmit power.
8708.94 - Steering systems and their parts
Steering system parts such as steering columns and steering gears have different functions from suspension crossmembers. A suspension crossmember belongs to the suspension system, so it is classified under 8708.87.
7326.90 - Other articles of iron or steel
If the suspension crossmember is a general-purpose iron or steel article not specially designed for motor vehicles, it may be classified under 7326.90. However, because it is specially designed for the suspension system, it is classified under 8708.87.
Self-Check:
✓ Confirm whether the commodity is specially designed or principally designed for motor vehicle suspension systems.
✓ Confirm whether it is specifically named in 8708.87 rather than in other subheadings.
✓ Confirm whether the material affects classification (for example, whether it is a general-purpose iron or steel article).
✓ Confirm whether it contains other functional components (such as whether it has bushings, ball joints, etc.).
✓ Confirm whether the HS version is 2017 or later, so as to correctly use 8708.87.
❓ FAQ
What is the HS code for a suspension crossmember? The HS code for a suspension crossmember is 8708.87, with the full code being 8708.87.00 (specific countries may add two more digits). This code belongs to Chapter 87, parts of motor vehicles, and subheading 8708.87 specifically refers to suspension systems and their parts. How can I look up the HS code for a suspension crossmember? You can use the Customs Administration's "Import and Export Tariff" or an online HS code query system, enter the keyword "suspension crossmember" or "Suspension beam", and filter by Chapter 87. You can also follow the classification rules by first determining the chapter (87), then the heading (8708), and finally the subheading (8708.87). What is the difference between the HS codes for a suspension crossmember and a drive axle? A suspension crossmember is classified under 8708.87 (suspension systems), while a drive axle is classified under 8708.50 (drive axles). A drive axle is a power-transmitting component, including the final drive and differential; a suspension crossmember is a supporting and guiding component and does not transmit power. What are the declaration elements for a suspension crossmember? The main declaration elements include: product name, brand, model, applicable vehicle model, material, dimensions, whether it is an assembly, and use. They must be filled in truthfully to avoid classification errors or customs clearance delays caused by false declaration. If a suspension crossmember is classified under 8708.87, what is the tax rate? Tax rates vary by country, trade agreement and year. It is recommended to consult the latest "Import and Export Tariff" or consult a customs broker. Generally, the import tariff on motor vehicle parts is around 10%, but the specific rate is subject to customs determination. If the suspension crossmember is made of aluminum alloy, will the HS code change? No. HS code 8708.87 is divided according to function and use, and material does not affect classification, unless the product is not specially designed for motor vehicles and may be classified under Chapter 76, articles of aluminum. However, an aluminum alloy crossmember specially designed for a suspension system is still classified under 8708.87. Are the HS codes for a suspension crossmember and a suspension assembly the same? If the suspension assembly is a complete suspension system containing multiple components, it is generally also classified under 8708.87. However, if the assembly contains parts of other systems (such as braking components), it must be classified according to the principal function. It is recommended to provide a detailed structural description. For cross-border e-commerce sales of suspension crossmembers, how should the HS code be filled in? Cross-border e-commerce sellers need to select the correct HS code based on the actual use and material of the commodity. Suspension crossmembers should be filled in as 8708.87.00. At the same time, attention should be paid to the customs requirements of the destination country, and detailed declaration information such as brand and model may need to be provided.
Q: What is the HS code for a suspension crossmember?
A: The HS code for a suspension crossmember is 8708.87, with the full code being 8708.87.00 (specific countries may add two more digits). This code belongs to Chapter 87, parts of motor vehicles, and subheading 8708.87 specifically refers to suspension systems and their parts.
Q: How can I look up the HS code for a suspension crossmember?
A: You can use the Customs Administration's "Import and Export Tariff" or an online HS code query system, enter the keyword "suspension crossmember" or "Suspension beam", and filter by Chapter 87. You can also follow the classification rules by first determining the chapter (87), then the heading (8708), and finally the subheading (8708.87).
Q: What is the difference between the HS codes for a suspension crossmember and a drive axle?
A: A suspension crossmember is classified under 8708.87 (suspension systems), while a drive axle is classified under 8708.50 (drive axles). A drive axle is a power-transmitting component, including the final drive and differential; a suspension crossmember is a supporting and guiding component and does not transmit power.
Q: What are the declaration elements for a suspension crossmember?
A: The main declaration elements include: product name, brand, model, applicable vehicle model, material, dimensions, whether it is an assembly, and use. They must be filled in truthfully to avoid classification errors or customs clearance delays caused by false declaration.
Q: If a suspension crossmember is classified under 8708.87, what is the tax rate?
A: Tax rates vary by country, trade agreement and year. It is recommended to consult the latest "Import and Export Tariff" or consult a customs broker. Generally, the import tariff on motor vehicle parts is around 10%, but the specific rate is subject to customs determination.
Q: If the suspension crossmember is made of aluminum alloy, will the HS code change?
A: No. HS code 8708.87 is divided according to function and use, and material does not affect classification, unless the product is not specially designed for motor vehicles and may be classified under Chapter 76, articles of aluminum. However, an aluminum alloy crossmember specially designed for a suspension system is still classified under 8708.87.
Q: Are the HS codes for a suspension crossmember and a suspension assembly the same?
A: If the suspension assembly is a complete suspension system containing multiple components, it is generally also classified under 8708.87. However, if the assembly contains parts of other systems (such as braking components), it must be classified according to the principal function. It is recommended to provide a detailed structural description.
Q: For cross-border e-commerce sales of suspension crossmembers, how should the HS code be filled in?
A: Cross-border e-commerce sellers need to select the correct HS code based on the actual use and material of the commodity. Suspension crossmembers should be filled in as 8708.87.00. At the same time, attention should be paid to the customs requirements of the destination country, and detailed declaration information such as brand and model may need to be provided.
⚠️ 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.