Product classification
HS code for Magnetic coupling: 8505.20
Magnets, electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes.
Classification of magnetic coupling under HS 8505.20
The classification of magnetic couplings under HS code 8505.20 is determined by the fundamental physical principles governing their operation. Heading 8505 is situated within Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. This specific heading is dedicated to electromagnets, permanent magnets, and a variety of devices that utilize magnetic forces to perform mechanical work, such as clutches, brakes, and couplings. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is legally determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Subheading 8505.20 specifically names "Electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes," making it the most specific and appropriate classification for these items. These devices are designed to transmit torque between two independent shafts without any physical contact, utilizing either electromagnetic fields or high-strength permanent magnets. This non-contact method is particularly valuable in industrial settings where a hermetic seal is required to prevent the leakage of hazardous fluids, such as in the chemical processing or nuclear industries. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the coupling is a synchronous type, where the shafts rotate at the same speed, or an eddy-current type, which allows for slip. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System further clarify that this heading includes magnetic couplings used to connect a motor to a pump or other driven machine, emphasizing that the magnetic interface is the defining characteristic for customs purposes.
- Covers
- Permanent magnet synchronous couplings
- Electromagnetic clutches for industrial machinery
- Magnetic torque limiters
- Hysteresis couplings
- Eddy-current couplings
- Magnetic fluid couplings
- 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 frequent point of confusion involves heading 8483, which covers transmission shafts, cranks, bearing housings, and mechanical couplings. Specifically, 8483.60 is the code for "Clutches and shaft couplings (including universal joints)." While a magnetic coupling does perform the function of a shaft coupling, the presence of magnetic or electromagnetic components as the primary means of power transmission shifts the classification to 8505.20. Customs authorities prioritize the electrical nature of the device over its general mechanical function. Another potential error is 8501, which covers electric motors; however, a coupling is a transmission component, not a prime mover.
Top exporters and importers of HS 850520 (the code used for magnetic coupling), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850520 (the code used for magnetic coupling) 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 magnetic coupling.
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 magnetic coupling
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 magnetic coupling
What is the HS code for Magnetic coupling?
The HS code for Magnetic coupling is 850520 (Magnets; electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes). The primary HS code is 8505.20, which covers electro-magnetic couplings, clutches, and brakes.
How do I classify Magnetic coupling for customs?
Magnetic coupling is classified under HS code 850520 — Magnets; electro-magnetic couplings, clutches and brakes. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include permanent magnet couplings?
Yes, although the heading mentions "electro-magnetic," the Explanatory Notes and international customs rulings generally include permanent magnet couplings under this heading because they function as magnetic clutches or couplings.
Which countries are the top exporters of magnetic coupling (HS 850520)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850520 (the code used for magnetic coupling) 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 magnetic coupling (HS 850520)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 850520 (the code used for magnetic coupling) 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 Magnetic coupling the same in all countries?
The base HS code 850520 for Magnetic coupling 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 magnetic coupling in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 850520 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for magnetic coupling depends on the product's details: 8505.20.10 (Eddy current brakes for vehicles), 8505.20.90 (Other electromagnetic couplings, clutches, brakes).