HS 870880 Suspension systems and parts thereof (including shock-absorbers)

Quick Answer: Suspension systems and parts thereof, including shock-absorbers, imported under HS 870880 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at rates varying up to 4.50%, and the US duty-free for many items, with some subject to a 2.5% tariff. This classification covers essential components of a vehicle's suspension, designed to absorb road shocks and ensure a smooth ride. Importers and customs brokers should be aware that specific subheadings within this code may carry different duty rates depending on the exact product and its origin. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and accurate duty assessment across these major trading blocs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8708802090 — — —
8708803500 4.00 % — —
8708803590 4.00 % — —
8708809100 4.00 % — —
8708809990 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8708805500 3.50 % — —
8708809100 4.50 % — —
8708809900 3.50 % — —
8708802010 — — —
8708802090 — — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
870880 — — —
8708800500 Free — ["No."]
8708801600 2.5% Free (18 programs) ["No."]
8708805500 Free — ["No."]
87088065 2.5% <u></u> Free (18 programs) —

Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 8708.80?

Imports of Suspension systems and parts thereof (including shock-absorbers) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.

United States (HTSUS)

Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs

European Union (TARIC)

Preferential rate data not yet available.

United Kingdom

Preferential rate data not yet available.

Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.

Data compiled by HSRates.

Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?

Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.

Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 870880 cover?

This subheading covers suspension systems and their individual parts, specifically including shock-absorbers, designed for vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this encompasses components like springs (coil, leaf, torsion), shock absorbers (hydraulic, pneumatic, gas-filled), struts, and associated mounting hardware, all integral to a vehicle's suspension functionality.

What falls outside HS 870880?

The following products are excluded from HS 870880: complete suspension assemblies that are not separable into distinct parts, steering components (classified under 8708.94), braking systems (classified under 8708.30), and general vehicle body parts not specifically related to suspension. For instance, entire chassis frames, even if they incorporate suspension mounting points, are typically classified under heading 8708.29, and individual tires are classified under heading 4011.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 870880?

A common error is misclassifying integrated suspension units that combine multiple functions, such as a strut assembly that includes a shock absorber and a spring, as separate components. General Interpretive Rule 3(b) for the interpretation of the Harmonized System, which states that mixtures or composite goods shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character, is often overlooked. Importers may also mistakenly classify suspension bushings separately if they are not sold as part of a complete assembly.

How should importers classify products under HS 870880?

The correct procedure for classifying suspension systems and parts under HS 870880 involves a detailed examination of the product's function and composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO HS Nomenclature and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. Identifying whether the item is a complete suspension system, a distinct part thereof, or a shock-absorber is crucial, referencing product descriptions and technical specifications to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 870880?

A set of four front shock absorbers for a 2022 Toyota Camry, weighing 15 kg and declared at a customs value of $250 USD, would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $250 USD = $12.50. This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8708.80.00.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 870880?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 870880, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Japan. To claim these preferences, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, as specified by the importing country's customs authority, is typically required.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 870810 HS 870895 HS 870850 HS 870830 HS 870870 HS 870893

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 870880 (Suspension systems and parts thereof)?

Import duty rates for HS code 870880 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 4.0% ad valorem for most origins, though preferential rates may apply. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a standard rate of 4.0% ad valorem. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your origin and circumstances.

How is the import duty for HS code 870880 calculated, and can you provide an example?

Import duty for HS code 870880 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of shock absorbers valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 2.5%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.025 (Duty Rate) = $250. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity, but for this code, ad valorem is most common. Always ensure your customs value is correctly determined according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).

What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 870880?

HS code 870880 covers 'Suspension systems and parts thereof (including shock-absorbers)' for vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705. The primary classification criterion is that the item must be specifically designed as part of a vehicle's suspension system. This includes components like shock absorbers (dampers), springs (coil, leaf, torsion bar), struts, control arms, and suspension linkages. Items that are general-purpose mechanical parts not specifically designed for vehicle suspension would be classified elsewhere.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 870880?

Standard import documentation for HS code 870880 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are being claimed. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product literature to substantiate the classification if requested by customs authorities. Some countries may require specific safety or compliance certifications for automotive parts.

Which common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 870880, and how can importers benefit?

Many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under HS 870880. For instance, goods originating from countries that are signatories to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may benefit from preferential duty rates when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico. Similarly, goods originating within the EU may benefit from zero duties under the EU's internal market rules. To benefit from these agreements, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant FTA and possess a valid Certificate of Origin or other acceptable proof of origin as required by the importing country's customs authority. This requires careful supply chain management and documentation.