Product classification
HS code for AC motor: 8501.40
Electric motors, AC motors, single-phase.
Classification of AC motor under HS 8501.40
HS code 850140 is specifically designated for single-phase AC electric motors. This classification is based on the motor's power supply configuration, specifically its operation on a single alternating current phase, which fundamentally differentiates it from multi-phase motors. The Harmonized System (HS) categorizes electric motors primarily by their current type (AC or DC), phase configuration (single-phase or multi-phase), and power output. For single-phase AC motors, this code encompasses a wide array of applications, typically found in household appliances, small machinery, and other equipment where a three-phase power supply is not available or necessary. This precise definition ensures accurate classification based on electrical design and operational characteristics.
- Covers
- Single-phase induction motors
- Universal motors (AC operation)
- Shaded-pole motors
- Capacitor-start, capacitor-run motors
- Split-phase motors
- Motors for household appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, and fans
- Also under 8501.40
- Nidec single-phase motors
- Emerson single-phase motors
- Baldor-Reliance single-phase motors
- WEG single-phase motors
- Panasonic appliance motors
Codes often confused with 8501.40
Common mistake. Misclassification of AC motors often occurs due to overlooking the crucial distinction between single-phase and multi-phase operation. HS 850140 is frequently confused with codes for multi-phase AC motors. For example, HS 850151 covers multi-phase AC motors of an output not exceeding 750W, HS 850152 for those exceeding 750W but not exceeding 75kW, and HS 850153 for those exceeding 75kW. The key differentiator for 850140 is the explicit mention of "single-phase." Incorrect classification can arise if the electrical specifications of the motor, particularly its phase configuration, are not accurately identified, leading to non-compliance with customs regulations.
Top exporters and importers of HS 850140 (the code used for AC motor), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850140 (the code used for AC motor) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 43% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 29% 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 850140, not only AC motor.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $2.7B 43% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $932M 15% of world exports
- 3 United States $312M 5.0% of world exports
World total: $6.2B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.7B 29% of world imports
- 2 Mexico $432M 7.2% of world imports
- 3 Germany $225M 3.8% of world imports
World total: $6.0B 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 codes for AC motor
Brazil splits HS 8501.40 into 4 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8501.40.111-phase synchronous motors over 37.5 W to 15 kW
- 8501.40.19Other single-phase AC motors over 37.5 W to 15 kW
- 8501.40.21Single-phase synchronous motors over 15 kW
- 8501.40.29Other single-phase AC motors over 15 kW
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about AC motor
What is the HS code for AC motor?
The HS code for AC motor is 850140 (Electric motors; AC motors, single-phase).
How do I classify AC motor for customs?
AC motor is classified under HS code 850140 — Electric motors; AC motors, single-phase. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the primary characteristic defining motors under HS 850140?
The primary characteristic defining motors under HS 850140 is that they are single-phase AC motors. This distinguishes them from multi-phase AC motors, which are classified under different subheadings within the same main heading.
Are all AC motors classified under HS 850140?
No, not all AC motors are classified under HS 850140. This specific code is reserved for single-phase AC motors. Multi-phase AC motors, which are common in industrial applications, are classified under other HS codes such as 850151, 850152, or 850153, depending on their power output.
Which countries are the top exporters of AC motor (HS 850140)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850140 (the code used for AC motor) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.7B, 43% of world exports), Mexico ($932M) and the United States ($312M). World exports came to about $6.2B, 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 motor (HS 850140)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 850140 (the code used for AC motor) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.7B, 29% of world imports), Mexico ($432M) and Germany ($225M). World imports came to about $6.0B, 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 motor the same in all countries?
The base HS code 850140 for AC motor 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 motor in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 850140 into 4 NCM codes, so the right one for AC motor depends on the product's details: 8501.40.11 (1-phase synchronous motors over 37.5 W to 15 kW), 8501.40.19 (Other single-phase AC motors over 37.5 W to 15 kW), 8501.40.21 (Single-phase synchronous motors over 15 kW), 8501.40.29 (Other single-phase AC motors over 15 kW).