Product classification
HS code for Electrical plug: 8536.69
Electrical apparatus, plugs and sockets, for a voltage not exceeding 1000 volts.
Classification of electrical plug under HS 8536.69
Electrical plugs designed for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 volts are classified under HS code 8536.69. This heading encompasses a wide range of apparatus used for protecting electrical circuits or for making connections to or in electrical circuits. The classification is based on the functional utility of the plug as a connector that facilitates the flow of electricity between a power source and an appliance. Under the Harmonized System, 8536 is the primary heading for low-voltage connection devices. The sub-heading 8536.69 specifically captures plugs and sockets that do not fall under more specific categories like coaxial connectors or connectors for printed circuits. This code is used globally for standard domestic power plugs, industrial plugs within the voltage limit, and various types of connectors used in consumer electronics. The primary factor for this classification is the voltage rating; if the plug were designed for voltages exceeding 1,000 volts, it would move to heading 8535. Furthermore, the physical form of the plug—whether it is a male connector intended to fit into a socket—defines its placement here. It is important to note that if a plug is permanently attached to a length of insulated wire, the entire assembly might be classified under 8544 as a set or insulated wire fitted with connectors, depending on the primary character of the shipment. However, for the plug as a standalone component, 8536.69 remains the definitive classification. This ensures that manufacturers and importers can accurately declare components used in the assembly of power cords and electrical devices across international borders.
- Covers
- Standard domestic 2-pin and 3-pin power plugs
- Industrial plugs for voltages under 1000V
- Appliance couplers and connectors
- Wall sockets and power outlets
- Extension cord connectors (male and female ends)
- Also under 8536.69
- Legrand Arteor sockets
- Leviton Decora outlets
- Hubbell Twist-Lock plugs
- APC power strips
- Anker USB wall chargers
Codes often confused with 8536.69
Common mistake. A common error is classifying a plug-and-cable assembly under 8536.69. If the plug is attached to a wire, it should generally be classified under 8544.42. Additionally, high-voltage plugs exceeding 1,000 volts must be classified under 8535.90. Coaxial plugs for television or data are also excluded and belong under 8536.61.
Top exporters and importers of HS 853669 (the code used for electrical plug), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 853669 (the code used for electrical plug) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 23% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 13% 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 853669, not only electrical plug.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $5.8B 23% of world exports
- 2 China $3.5B 13% of world exports
- 3 United States $3.4B 13% of world exports
World total: $25.7B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $3.2B 13% of world imports
- 2 Germany $3.1B 13% of world imports
- 3 South Korea $911M 3.8% of world imports
World total: $24.0B 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 electrical plug
Brazil splits HS 8536.69 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8536.69.10Polarised and shielded sockets
- 8536.69.90Other plugs and sockets, up to 1,000 V
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about electrical plug
What is the HS code for Electrical plug?
The HS code for Electrical plug is 853669 (Electrical apparatus; plugs and sockets, for a voltage not exceeding 1000 volts). The HS code for electrical plugs and sockets for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 volts is 8536.69.
How do I classify Electrical plug for customs?
Electrical plug is classified under HS code 853669 — Electrical apparatus; plugs and sockets, for a voltage not exceeding 1000 volts. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include USB plugs?
Standard USB connectors used for data and low-power charging are often classified under 8536.69, though some specific data connectors may fall under 8536.90 depending on their design.
Which countries are the top exporters of electrical plug (HS 853669)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 853669 (the code used for electrical plug) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($5.8B, 23% of world exports), China ($3.5B) and the United States ($3.4B). World exports came to about $25.7B, 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 electrical plug (HS 853669)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 853669 (the code used for electrical plug) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($3.2B, 13% of world imports), Germany ($3.1B) and South Korea ($911M). World imports came to about $24.0B, 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 Electrical plug the same in all countries?
The base HS code 853669 for Electrical plug 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 electrical plug in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 853669 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for electrical plug depends on the product's details: 8536.69.10 (Polarised and shielded sockets), 8536.69.90 (Other plugs and sockets, up to 1,000 V).