Chapter 87 covers railway and tramway locomotives, rolling stock and parts thereof; railway and tramway track fixtures and fittings; various mechanical (including electromechanical) traffic signaling equipment; and road motor vehicles, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, etc., and parts thereof. The core of this chapter is transport vehicles and their dedicated parts, but it does not include general mechanical parts (such as engines, pumps of Chapter 84) or electrical parts (such as motors, batteries of Chapter 85). Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), including body parts, braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, suspension systems, steering systems, wheels, radiators, silencers, etc. However, note that this heading only includes parts specially or principally for motor vehicles; general-purpose parts must be classified under other headings according to material or function. Code 870888 is a 6-digit subheading: the first 2 digits '87' represent Chapter 87 (vehicles and parts thereof); digits 3-4 '08' represent heading 8708 (parts and accessories of motor vehicles); digits 5-6 '88' represent subheading 8708.88, specifically suspension systems and parts thereof (including suspension struts, shock absorbers, suspension springs, etc.). According to HS classification, 8708.80 is suspension systems and parts, but some countries subdivide beyond 6 digits; 870888 may be an 8-digit code of certain countries or regions for more precise classification of suspension struts. Suspension struts are core components of motor vehicle suspension systems, dedicated to vehicles, and therefore classified under 8708. They do not fall under other subheadings of 8708.80 (suspension systems and parts), such as 8708.80.10 (suspension shock absorbers) or 8708.80.90 (other suspension system parts), but specifically refer to strut-type suspension assemblies, typically comprising an integrated structure of shock absorber and spring, and thus are separately listed in some countries' codes.
Chapter
Chapter 87 covers railway and tramway locomotives, rolling stock and parts thereof; railway and tramway track fixtures and fittings; various mechanical (including electromechanical) traffic signaling equipment; and road motor vehicles, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, etc., and parts thereof. The core of this chapter is transport vehicles and their dedicated parts, but it does not include general mechanical parts (such as engines, pumps of Chapter 84) or electrical parts (such as motors, batteries of Chapter 85).
Heading
Heading 8708 covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), including body parts, braking systems, gearboxes, drive axles, suspension systems, steering systems, wheels, radiators, silencers, etc. However, note that this heading only includes parts specially or principally for motor vehicles; general-purpose parts must be classified under other headings according to material or function.
Digit Breakdown
Code 870888 is a 6-digit subheading: the first 2 digits '87' represent Chapter 87 (vehicles and parts thereof); digits 3-4 '08' represent heading 8708 (parts and accessories of motor vehicles); digits 5-6 '88' represent subheading 8708.88, specifically suspension systems and parts thereof (including suspension struts, shock absorbers, suspension springs, etc.). According to HS classification, 8708.80 is suspension systems and parts, but some countries subdivide beyond 6 digits; 870888 may be an 8-digit code of certain countries or regions for more precise classification of suspension struts.
Classification Basis
Suspension struts are core components of motor vehicle suspension systems, dedicated to vehicles, and therefore classified under 8708. They do not fall under other subheadings of 8708.80 (suspension systems and parts), such as 8708.80.10 (suspension shock absorbers) or 8708.80.90 (other suspension system parts), but specifically refer to strut-type suspension assemblies, typically comprising an integrated structure of shock absorber and spring, and thus are separately listed in some countries' codes.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The specific name of the declared commodity, such as 'suspension strut' or 'front suspension strut assembly', which must be consistent with the actual item. Brand: Fill in the manufacturer or brand name, such as 'KYB', 'Monroe'; if no brand, fill in 'no brand'. Model: Fill in the specific model or part number, such as '333504', used to identify the applicable vehicle model. Applicable Vehicle Model: Indicate the applicable vehicle brand, model and year, such as 'Toyota Corolla 2015-2018'. Material: Main material, such as 'steel', 'aluminum alloy', affecting classification and anti-dumping. Contains Spring: Indicate whether a coil spring is included; suspension struts often integrate with springs. Use: Clearly state it is used for motor vehicle suspension systems, not other machinery. Product Name: Front suspension strut assembly; Brand: KYB; Model: 333504; Applicable Vehicle Model: Toyota Corolla 2015-2018; Material: Steel; Contains Spring: Yes; Use: Motor vehicle suspension system. Confusing suspension struts with shock absorbers; shock absorbers are separately classified under 8708.80.10, while strut assemblies may be classified under 8708.88. Ignoring declaration of springs; if springs are imported separately, they should be classified under 7320.20, and if imported together with struts, they must be classified separately. Incorrectly declaring as general mechanical parts, leading to classification under Chapter 84, affecting tax rates and regulatory conditions.
Product Name
The specific name of the declared commodity, such as 'suspension strut' or 'front suspension strut assembly', which must be consistent with the actual item.
⚠️ Writing only 'suspension' or 'strut', which is too general and leads to classification disputes.
Brand
Fill in the manufacturer or brand name, such as 'KYB', 'Monroe'; if no brand, fill in 'no brand'.
⚠️ Confusing brand with model, or omitting it, making it impossible to determine origin.
Model
Fill in the specific model or part number, such as '333504', used to identify the applicable vehicle model.
⚠️ Incomplete or incorrect model entry, affecting customs valuation and classification.
Applicable Vehicle Model
Indicate the applicable vehicle brand, model and year, such as 'Toyota Corolla 2015-2018'.
⚠️ Writing only 'universal', making it impossible to confirm specificity.
Material
Main material, such as 'steel', 'aluminum alloy', affecting classification and anti-dumping.
⚠️ Ignoring material, which may lead to misclassification under other headings.
Contains Spring
Indicate whether a coil spring is included; suspension struts often integrate with springs.
⚠️ Failing to declare the spring, leading to classification errors or tax evasion.
Use
Clearly state it is used for motor vehicle suspension systems, not other machinery.
⚠️ Writing 'industrial use', which may lead to classification under Chapter 84.
Example： Product Name: Front suspension strut assembly; Brand: KYB; Model: 333504; Applicable Vehicle Model: Toyota Corolla 2015-2018; Material: Steel; Contains Spring: Yes; Use: Motor vehicle suspension system.
Common Mistakes：
Confusing suspension struts with shock absorbers; shock absorbers are separately classified under 8708.80.10, while strut assemblies may be classified under 8708.88.
Ignoring declaration of springs; if springs are imported separately, they should be classified under 7320.20, and if imported together with struts, they must be classified separately.
Incorrectly declaring as general mechanical parts, leading to classification under Chapter 84, affecting tax rates and regulatory conditions.
🎯 Classification Logic
Core classification basis: 1) Whether the goods are specially or principally for motor vehicles of headings 8701-8705; 2) Whether they constitute complete parts of the suspension system; 3) Whether they include an integrated structure with shock absorption and support functions. Suspension struts typically consist of a shock absorber cylinder, spring, top mount, etc., and are key components of the suspension system, thus classified under 8708.88. If shock absorbers are imported separately, they are classified under 8708.80.10; if springs are imported separately, they are classified under 7320.20 by material. 870880 Suspension systems and parts: 870880 is a general term for suspension systems, including shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars, etc.; while 870888 specifically refers to suspension strut assemblies, a more subdivided subheading. 870810 Braking systems and parts: Braking system parts such as brake pads and brake discs have different functions from suspension struts, and must be distinguished by function during classification. 732020 Iron or steel coil springs: If suspension springs are imported separately, they should be classified under 732020, not 870888; only struts integrated with shock absorbers are classified under 870888. 848310 Transmission shafts and cranks: Transmission shafts belong to the transmission system and are classified under 848310, with different functions from the shock absorption and support functions of suspension struts. Is it specially for motor vehicles? Does it include an integrated structure of shock absorber and spring? Are springs imported separately? Is it confused with braking or transmission parts? Have the applicable vehicle model and material been declared?
Basis
Core classification basis: 1) Whether the goods are specially or principally for motor vehicles of headings 8701-8705; 2) Whether they constitute complete parts of the suspension system; 3) Whether they include an integrated structure with shock absorption and support functions. Suspension struts typically consist of a shock absorber cylinder, spring, top mount, etc., and are key components of the suspension system, thus classified under 8708.88. If shock absorbers are imported separately, they are classified under 8708.80.10; if springs are imported separately, they are classified under 7320.20 by material.
Confused Codes：
870880 - Suspension systems and parts
870880 is a general term for suspension systems, including shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars, etc.; while 870888 specifically refers to suspension strut assemblies, a more subdivided subheading.
870810 - Braking systems and parts
Braking system parts such as brake pads and brake discs have different functions from suspension struts, and must be distinguished by function during classification.
732020 - Iron or steel coil springs
If suspension springs are imported separately, they should be classified under 732020, not 870888; only struts integrated with shock absorbers are classified under 870888.
848310 - Transmission shafts and cranks
Transmission shafts belong to the transmission system and are classified under 848310, with different functions from the shock absorption and support functions of suspension struts.
Self-Check：
✓ Is it specially for motor vehicles?
✓ Does it include an integrated structure of shock absorber and spring?
✓ Are springs imported separately?
✓ Is it confused with braking or transmission parts?
✓ Have the applicable vehicle model and material been declared?
❓ FAQ
What is the difference between a suspension strut and a shock absorber? Are the HS codes the same? A suspension strut is an integrated assembly of shock absorber and spring, with both shock absorption and support functions; a shock absorber refers only to the shock absorber cylinder. In HS codes, shock absorbers are typically classified under 8708.80.10, while suspension struts may be classified under 8708.88 (depending on national subdivision). If shock absorbers are imported separately, they should be classified as shock absorbers. How to check the import tariff rate for suspension struts? Tariff rates depend on the country of origin, trade agreements, and the latest customs policies. Real-time rates can be obtained through the official website of the General Administration of Customs of China, HS code query platforms, or by consulting a customs broker. Note that rates change, and it is advisable to rely on the customs system at the time of declaration. What declaration elements must be provided when declaring suspension struts? Typically, product name, brand, model, applicable vehicle model, material, whether it contains a spring, and use are required. Specific requirements are subject to customs; it is advisable to confirm with a customs broker in advance to avoid rejection due to incomplete elements. If a suspension strut includes an electronic sensor, will the code change? If the suspension strut integrates an electronic sensor (such as a body height sensor), it may be considered an electronic component, but if the main function is still mechanical suspension, it is usually still classified under 8708.88. If the sensor is imported independently, it is classified under 8543 or 8708.99. It is recommended to classify based on the main function. How to choose the HS code for cross-border e-commerce sales of suspension struts? Cross-border e-commerce should choose the code based on the actual function of the goods. If it is a complete suspension strut assembly, it is recommended to use 8708.88; if it is a separate shock absorber, use 8708.80.10. Also note that the destination country code may differ, and the local customs tariff must be checked. Is the export tax rebate for suspension struts different from other auto parts? The export tax rebate rate depends on the specific HS code and the country's rebate policy. Suspension struts classified under 8708.88 may have a different rebate rate from 8708.80. It is recommended to check the latest export tax rebate catalog or consult a tax advisor. How to determine whether a suspension strut is an OEM part or aftermarket part? Does it affect classification? There is no difference in classification between OEM and aftermarket parts; both are classified under 8708.88 by function. However, the brand and model must be truthfully declared; OEM parts may involve brand authorization, affecting customs intellectual property recordation. What are the requirements for packaging and labeling of suspension struts? Packaging should be sturdy to prevent damage during transport. Labels must include product name, model, brand, origin, etc. Exports to Europe and America may need to comply with local standards such as CE, DOT, etc. It is advisable to understand destination country requirements in advance.
Q: What is the difference between a suspension strut and a shock absorber? Are the HS codes the same?
A: A suspension strut is an integrated assembly of shock absorber and spring, with both shock absorption and support functions; a shock absorber refers only to the shock absorber cylinder. In HS codes, shock absorbers are typically classified under 8708.80.10, while suspension struts may be classified under 8708.88 (depending on national subdivision). If shock absorbers are imported separately, they should be classified as shock absorbers.
Q: How to check the import tariff rate for suspension struts?
A: Tariff rates depend on the country of origin, trade agreements, and the latest customs policies. Real-time rates can be obtained through the official website of the General Administration of Customs of China, HS code query platforms, or by consulting a customs broker. Note that rates change, and it is advisable to rely on the customs system at the time of declaration.
Q: What declaration elements must be provided when declaring suspension struts?
A: Typically, product name, brand, model, applicable vehicle model, material, whether it contains a spring, and use are required. Specific requirements are subject to customs; it is advisable to confirm with a customs broker in advance to avoid rejection due to incomplete elements.
Q: If a suspension strut includes an electronic sensor, will the code change?
A: If the suspension strut integrates an electronic sensor (such as a body height sensor), it may be considered an electronic component, but if the main function is still mechanical suspension, it is usually still classified under 8708.88. If the sensor is imported independently, it is classified under 8543 or 8708.99. It is recommended to classify based on the main function.
Q: How to choose the HS code for cross-border e-commerce sales of suspension struts?
A: Cross-border e-commerce should choose the code based on the actual function of the goods. If it is a complete suspension strut assembly, it is recommended to use 8708.88; if it is a separate shock absorber, use 8708.80.10. Also note that the destination country code may differ, and the local customs tariff must be checked.
Q: Is the export tax rebate for suspension struts different from other auto parts?
A: The export tax rebate rate depends on the specific HS code and the country's rebate policy. Suspension struts classified under 8708.88 may have a different rebate rate from 8708.80. It is recommended to check the latest export tax rebate catalog or consult a tax advisor.
Q: How to determine whether a suspension strut is an OEM part or aftermarket part? Does it affect classification?
A: There is no difference in classification between OEM and aftermarket parts; both are classified under 8708.88 by function. However, the brand and model must be truthfully declared; OEM parts may involve brand authorization, affecting customs intellectual property recordation.
Q: What are the requirements for packaging and labeling of suspension struts?
A: Packaging should be sturdy to prevent damage during transport. Labels must include product name, model, brand, origin, etc. Exports to Europe and America may need to comply with local standards such as CE, DOT, etc. It is advisable to understand destination country requirements in advance.
⚠️ 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.