Product classification
HS code for Differential: 8708.50
Vehicle parts, drive-axles with differential, whether or not provided with other transmission components, and non-driving axles, parts thereof.
Classification of differential under HS 8708.50
A differential is classified under HS code 8708.50, which covers drive-axles with differentials and non-driving axles, as well as their parts. This classification is part of heading 8708, which is dedicated to parts and accessories of motor vehicles falling under headings 8701 to 8705. The differential is a mechanical assembly that allows wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds, which is essential for vehicle stability during turns. Because this component is specifically designed for and used almost exclusively in motor vehicles, it is classified within the automotive parts chapter. The code 8708.50 includes the entire axle assembly if it contains a differential, as well as the individual components such as the differential housing, crown wheels, and pinion gears. The classification is determined by the 'Section Note' for Section XVII, which prioritizes parts specifically suitable for use solely or principally with motor vehicles.
- Covers
- Rear-axle differentials for passenger cars
- Front-axle drive units for four-wheel-drive vehicles
- Differential housings and casings
- Axle shafts integrated with differential mechanisms
- Also under 8708.50
- Dana Spicer Axles
- Meritor Drive Axles
- ZF Axle Systems
- American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) Differentials
- GKN Driveline Axle Shafts
Codes often confused with 8708.50
Common mistake. Differentials are sometimes misclassified under HS code 8483, which covers transmission shafts and gearing. However, Note 2(e) to Section XVII excludes these from Chapter 84 if they are parts of vehicles. Another common error is using 8708.40, which is specifically for gearboxes (transmissions), whereas 8708.50 is for axles and differentials.
Top exporters and importers of HS 870850 (the code used for differential), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 870850 (the code used for differential) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% 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 870850, not only differential.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $6.1B 20% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $3.2B 11% of world exports
- 3 United States $2.9B 9.4% of world exports
World total: $30.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $6.1B 20% of world imports
- 2 Germany $3.3B 11% of world imports
- 3 Mexico $3.0B 9.6% of world imports
World total: $31.1B 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 differential
Brazil splits HS 8708.50 into 6 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8708.50.11Dumper differential axles, load of 14 t or more
- 8708.50.12Non-driving axles for tractors and dumpers
- 8708.50.19Other drive-axles for tractors and dumpers
- 8708.50.80Axles for cars, trucks and other vehicles
- 8708.50.91Parts of non-driving axles, tractors and dumpers
- 8708.50.99Other parts of drive-axles and non-driving axles
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about differential
What is the HS code for Differential?
The HS code for Differential is 870850 (Vehicle parts; drive-axles with differential, whether or not provided with other transmission components, and non-driving axles; parts thereof).
How do I classify Differential for customs?
Differential is classified under HS code 870850 — Vehicle parts; drive-axles with differential, whether or not provided with other transmission components, and non-driving axles; parts thereof. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the HS code for a vehicle differential?
The HS code for a differential, whether as a standalone part or as part of a drive-axle, is 8708.50.
Does this code include the axle shafts?
Yes, HS code 8708.50 includes drive-axles with differentials and the parts thereof, which encompasses the axle shafts associated with the differential unit.
Which countries are the top exporters of differential (HS 870850)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 870850 (the code used for differential) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($6.1B, 20% of world exports), Mexico ($3.2B) and the United States ($2.9B). World exports came to about $30.4B, 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 differential (HS 870850)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 870850 (the code used for differential) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($6.1B, 20% of world imports), Germany ($3.3B) and Mexico ($3.0B). World imports came to about $31.1B, 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 Differential the same in all countries?
The base HS code 870850 for Differential 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 differential in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 870850 into 6 NCM codes, so the right one for differential depends on the product's details: 8708.50.11 (Dumper differential axles, load of 14 t or more), 8708.50.12 (Non-driving axles for tractors and dumpers), 8708.50.19 (Other drive-axles for tractors and dumpers), 8708.50.80 (Axles for cars, trucks and other vehicles), 8708.50.91 (Parts of non-driving axles, tractors and dumpers), 8708.50.99 (Other parts of drive-axles and non-driving axles).