Product classification
HS code for AC generator: 8501.62
Electric generators, AC generators, (alternators), other than photovoltaic generators, of an output exceeding 75kVA but not exceeding 375kVA.
Classification of AC generator under HS 8501.62
HS code 850162 is specifically designated for AC generators, also known as alternators, that fall within a particular power output range. This classification applies to generators with an output exceeding 75 kilovolt-amperes (kVA) but not exceeding 375 kVA. The Harmonized System (HS) code structure for electrical machinery, particularly generators, relies heavily on technical specifications such as power output to differentiate between various types and capacities. This precise categorization ensures that generators are classified based on their intended scale of application, from smaller industrial uses to medium-sized commercial or backup power systems. The "other than photovoltaic generators" clause further refines the scope, excluding solar-powered generation units from this specific classification, focusing instead on mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion systems.
- Covers
- Industrial AC generators within the 75kVA to 375kVA range
- Standby power generators for commercial buildings or data centers
- Marine alternators designed for vessels requiring significant power output
- Generators for agricultural applications exceeding 75kVA
- Portable power plants for construction sites or events, if within the specified kVA limits
- Also under 8501.62
- Caterpillar C7.1/C9/C13 Generators
- Cummins Power Generation QSB/QSL Series
- Generac Industrial Generators (MD series)
- Kohler KD Series (smaller models)
- FG Wilson P Series
Codes often confused with 8501.62
Common mistake. Confusion often arises when classifying AC generators due to their similar appearance and function across different power ranges. HS 850162 is frequently confused with other subheadings within the same main heading. For instance, HS 850161 covers AC generators with an output not exceeding 75kVA, representing smaller units. Conversely, HS 850163 is for generators exceeding 375kVA but not exceeding 750kVA, and HS 850164 is for those exceeding 750kVA. The critical distinction lies solely in the specified kVA output range. Misclassification can occur if the exact power rating of the generator is not accurately determined or if the specific thresholds for each HS code are overlooked, leading to incorrect customs declarations and potential compliance issues.
Top exporters and importers of HS 850162 (the code used for AC generator), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850162 (the code used for AC generator) in UN Comtrade data was Singapore, with 21% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 18% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 850162, not only AC generator.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Singapore $336M 21% of world exports
- 2 United States $267M 16% of world exports
- 3 United Kingdom $228M 14% of world exports
World total: $1.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $342M 18% of world imports
- 2 United Kingdom $281M 15% of world imports
- 3 Singapore $165M 8.8% of world imports
World total: $1.9B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for AC generator
Brazil classifies AC generator under NCM 8501.62.00: HS 8501.62 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about AC generator
What is the HS code for AC generator?
The HS code for AC generator is 850162 (Electric generators; AC generators, (alternators), other than photovoltaic generators, of an output exceeding 75kVA but not exceeding 375kVA).
How do I classify AC generator for customs?
AC generator is classified under HS code 850162 — Electric generators; AC generators, (alternators), other than photovoltaic generators, of an output exceeding 75kVA but not exceeding 375kVA. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the HS code for an AC generator with an output of 200kVA?
The HS code for an AC generator with an output of 200kVA is 850162. This is because 200kVA falls within the specified range of exceeding 75kVA but not exceeding 375kVA for this particular classification.
What factors determine the classification of AC generators under heading 8501?
The primary factor determining the classification of AC generators under heading 8501 is their electrical power output, measured in kilovolt-amperes (kVA). This metric is used to delineate specific subheadings, ensuring that generators are categorized according to their capacity and scale of application. Other factors, such as whether they are photovoltaic or not, also play a role in refining the classification.
Which countries are the top exporters of AC generator (HS 850162)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850162 (the code used for AC generator) in UN Comtrade data were Singapore ($336M, 21% of world exports), the United States ($267M) and the United Kingdom ($228M). World exports came to about $1.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of AC generator (HS 850162)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 850162 (the code used for AC generator) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($342M, 18% of world imports), the United Kingdom ($281M) and Singapore ($165M). World imports came to about $1.9B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for AC generator the same in all countries?
The base HS code 850162 for AC generator is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for AC generator in Brazil?
In Brazil, AC generator (HS 850162) is classified under NCM 8501.62.00.