Product classification
HS code for Electromagnetic brake: 8505.20
Magnets, electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes.
Classification of electromagnetic brake under HS 8505.20
Electromagnetic brakes are classified under HS code 8505.20. This heading covers electromagnets; permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetization; electromagnetic or permanent magnet chucks, clamps, and similar holding devices; electromagnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes; and electromagnetic lifting heads. Subheading 8505.20 specifically isolates electromagnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes. These devices utilize electromagnetic force to create friction or engagement to slow or stop mechanical motion. The classification is determined by the electromagnetic nature of the actuation mechanism. Unlike purely mechanical brakes, these units rely on an electrical coil to generate a magnetic field that moves an armature or friction plate. This code is applicable to a wide variety of industrial applications, including those found in cranes, elevators, and automated machinery, where precise control of motion is required through electrical signals. The classification remains in Chapter 85 because the essential character of the device is defined by its electromagnetic function rather than its mechanical application in a specific machine.
- Covers
- Industrial electromagnetic disc brakes
- Electromagnetic fail-safe brakes for motors
- Electromagnetic drum brakes for cranes
- Spring-applied electromagnetic power-off brakes
- Electromagnetic particle brakes
- Also under 8505.20
- Warner Electric clutches
- Ogura clutches and brakes
- Lenze electromagnetic brakes
- Eaton Airflex clutches
- Siemens industrial brakes
Codes often confused with 8505.20
Common mistake. A common error is classifying electromagnetic brakes under HS code 8708.30, which covers brakes and servo-brakes for motor vehicles. However, if the brake is electromagnetic and intended for industrial machinery rather than road vehicles, 8505.20 is the correct code. Another misclassification occurs with HS code 8483, which covers transmission shafts and cranks, bearing housings, and gears. While 8483 includes clutches and shaft couplings, Note 2 to Chapter 84 and Note 1(f) to Section XVI generally direct electromagnetic components of this nature to heading 8505.
Top exporters and importers of HS 850520 (the code used for electromagnetic brake), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850520 (the code used for electromagnetic brake) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 30% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 10% 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 850520, not only electromagnetic brake.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $316M 30% of world exports
- 2 China $142M 14% of world exports
- 3 France $90M 8.7% of world exports
World total: $1.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $99M 10% of world imports
- 2 United States $99M 10% of world imports
- 3 Germany $77M 7.9% of world imports
World total: $976M 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 electromagnetic brake
Brazil splits HS 8505.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8505.20.10Eddy current brakes for vehicles
- 8505.20.90Other electromagnetic couplings, clutches, brakes
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about electromagnetic brake
What is the HS code for Electromagnetic brake?
The HS code for Electromagnetic brake is 850520 (Magnets; electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes). The HS code for electromagnetic brakes, clutches, and couplings is 8505.20.
How do I classify Electromagnetic brake for customs?
Electromagnetic brake is classified under HS code 850520 — Magnets; electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code apply to brakes used in passenger cars?
Generally, no. Brakes specifically designed for motor vehicles of headings 8701 to 8705 are typically classified under 8708.30, unless they are clearly identified as electromagnetic components falling under 8505.
Which countries are the top exporters of electromagnetic brake (HS 850520)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850520 (the code used for electromagnetic brake) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($316M, 30% of world exports), China ($142M) and France ($90M). World exports came to about $1.0B, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of electromagnetic brake (HS 850520)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 850520 (the code used for electromagnetic brake) in UN Comtrade data were China ($99M, 10% of world imports), the United States ($99M) and Germany ($77M). World imports came to about $976M, 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 Electromagnetic brake the same in all countries?
The base HS code 850520 for Electromagnetic brake 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 electromagnetic brake in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 850520 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for electromagnetic brake depends on the product's details: 8505.20.10 (Eddy current brakes for vehicles), 8505.20.90 (Other electromagnetic couplings, clutches, brakes).