Product classification
HS code for Rubber seals: 4016.93
Rubber, vulcanised (other than hard rubber), gaskets, washers and other seals, of non-cellular rubber.
Classification of rubber seals under HS 4016.93
Rubber seals are classified under HS code 4016.93. This code is part of the broader heading 4016, which encompasses "Other articles of vulcanised rubber other than hard rubber." The subheading 4016.93 specifically identifies "Gaskets, washers and other seals." The classification is based on the material composition—vulcanized, non-cellular rubber—and the intended use of the article as a sealing component. According to the General Interpretative Rules, products are classified according to the material that gives them their essential character. For these items, the elastomeric properties of vulcanized rubber are what allow them to function as seals. This code is used globally for a wide range of industrial and automotive sealing components that are made entirely or predominantly of rubber. The vulcanization process is key; if the rubber were not vulcanized, it would likely fall under 4005 or 4006. Furthermore, the non-cellular nature distinguishes these from foam rubber seals, which are classified under 4016.10.
- Covers
- Rubber O-rings for hydraulic systems
- Oil seals and grease seals for automotive engines
- Rubber washers for plumbing fixtures
- Static and dynamic rubber gaskets
- Inflatable rubber seals for industrial doors
- Custom molded rubber seals for machinery
- Also under 4016.93
- Parker O-Rings
- Freudenberg Sealing Technologies
- SKF Seals
- John Crane Gaskets
- Garlock Sealing Technologies
Codes often confused with 4016.93
Common mistake. A frequent error is classifying rubber seals under 4008.21 or 4008.29, which cover plates, sheets, and strips of non-cellular rubber. While seals may be cut from these materials, once they are finished articles shaped for a specific sealing purpose, they must move to 4016.93. Another common misclassification is 8484.10, which is for gaskets and similar joints of metal sheeting combined with other material. If a seal is 100% rubber, it belongs in 4016.93; if it is a composite of metal and rubber, 8484 is often more appropriate. Finally, plastic seals are classified in 3926.90, so material identification is critical for correct duty assessment.
Top exporters and importers of HS 401693 (the code used for rubber seals), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 401693 (the code used for rubber seals) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 13% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% 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 401693, not only rubber seals.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $1.8B 13% of world exports
- 2 Germany $1.8B 12% of world exports
- 3 China $1.6B 11% of world exports
World total: $14.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $2.5B 16% of world imports
- 2 Germany $1.7B 11% of world imports
- 3 China $1.1B 7.0% of world imports
World total: $15.8B 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 code for rubber seals
Brazil classifies rubber seals under NCM 4016.93.00: HS 4016.93 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Questions about rubber seals
What is the HS code for Rubber seals?
The HS code for Rubber seals is 401693 (Rubber; vulcanised (other than hard rubber), gaskets, washers and other seals, of non-cellular rubber). The standard HS code for gaskets, washers, and other seals made of vulcanized rubber is 4016.93.
How do I classify Rubber seals for customs?
Rubber seals is classified under HS code 401693 — Rubber; vulcanised (other than hard rubber), gaskets, washers and other seals, of non-cellular rubber. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can rubber seals be classified under Chapter 84?
Generally, no. While they are parts of machinery, Note 1(a) to Section XVI (which includes Chapter 84) excludes articles of vulcanized rubber, directing them back to Chapter 40.
Which countries are the top exporters of rubber seals (HS 401693)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 401693 (the code used for rubber seals) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.8B, 13% of world exports), Germany ($1.8B) and China ($1.6B). World exports came to about $14.4B, 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 rubber seals (HS 401693)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 401693 (the code used for rubber seals) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.5B, 16% of world imports), Germany ($1.7B) and China ($1.1B). World imports came to about $15.8B, 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 Rubber seals the same in all countries?
The base HS code 401693 for Rubber seals 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 rubber seals in Brazil?
In Brazil, rubber seals (HS 401693) is classified under NCM 4016.93.00.