HS Code for Automotive Radiators
The HS Code for automotive radiators is 870891. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 2.5%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 870891 |
|---|---|
| US HTS (10-digit) | 8708910000 |
| EU CN Code (8-digit) | 87089100 |
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 2.5% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 3.5% |
| Chapter | 87 |
| Heading | 8708 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Radiators and parts thereof for motor vehicles
HS Code 870891 covers automotive radiators and their parts, with a US MFN duty rate of 2.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the core material of an automotive radiator (e.g., aluminum vs. copper/brass) affect its classification under HTS 870891?
For classification under HTS 870891, the core material does not alter the heading, as it covers all radiators for motor vehicles regardless of material. However, the specific material composition (e.g., aluminum, copper/brass, or plastic tanks) can affect the assessment of anti-dumping or countervailing duties in certain countries, such as U.S. cases involving aluminum radiators from China.
What specific customs inspection risks are associated with importing automotive radiators under HTS 870891?
Automotive radiators frequently face customs inspection for verification of their country of origin markings, which must be permanently and legibly marked on the radiator core or tank. Inspectors also commonly verify the correct classification, as radiators containing integrated oil coolers or other components risk being classified under a different subheading (like 8708.99), which can carry a different duty rate.
What additional U.S. import costs, beyond the 2% duty rate, apply to automotive radiators under HTS 870891?
For automotive radiators, you must pay a 25% additional duty under Section 301 if the product originates from China (List 3). Furthermore, all imports are subject to the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is 0.3464% of the entered value with a minimum of $29.22 and a maximum of $648.33 per entry.
Radiator Material Classification
The classification of automotive radiators under 870891 is primarily for those made of base metals, typically aluminum or copper-brass. Radiators made from plastics (e.g., all-plastic tanks and cores) are generally excluded and may be classified elsewhere, such as in heading 3926. The essential function and identity as a radiator for a motor vehicle engine is the key determining factor, but the material can shift the heading. Always verify the principal material by weight and essential character for complex assemblies.
Similar or Related HTS Codes
Automotive radiators are most precisely classified under HTS 8708.91. However, they can be confused with parts for other vehicle types or general heat exchangers. For example, radiators for railway or tram locomotives fall under 8607.19, while those for agricultural tractors (heading 8701) are classified in 8708.99. Non-automotive heat exchangers (e.g., for industrial machinery) are generally found in heading 8419. Additionally, aluminum radiator cores, if imported separately and not yet assembled into a complete radiator unit, may be classified under 7616.99 as other aluminum articles.