Product classification
HS code for Signal relay: 8536.41
Electrical apparatus, relays, (for a voltage not exceeding 60 volts).
Classification of signal relay under HS 8536.41
Signal relays are classified under HS code 8536.41 because they are electrical apparatus used for switching or protecting electrical circuits, specifically designed for a voltage not exceeding 60 volts. This classification falls within Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. The primary determining factor for this specific subheading is the operating voltage. Signal relays are typically low-power devices used in telecommunications, data processing, and control systems to switch small currents. Because they operate at low voltages, they are distinguished from heavy-duty power relays. The General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) dictate that products are classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since these relays are for circuit control under the 60V threshold, 8536.41 is the most specific and accurate designation for international trade documentation.
- Covers
- Electromechanical signal relays
- Reed relays for low voltage circuits
- Solid-state relays (rated under 60V)
- PCB-mounted miniature relays
- Telecommunication relays
- Also under 8536.41
- Omron G5LE
- Panasonic JS1
- TE Connectivity V23079
- Bosch 0332019150
- Fujitsu FTR-F1
Codes often confused with 8536.41
Common mistake. Signal relays are frequently confused with HS code 8536.49, which is reserved for relays operating at voltages exceeding 60 volts but not exceeding 1,000 volts. Another common error is classifying solid-state signal relays under 8541.41 if they are perceived purely as semiconductor devices; however, if they function as a relay within a circuit, 8536 remains the primary heading. Additionally, if the relay is part of a specific telecommunication assembly, some importers mistakenly use 8517, though the component itself should remain under 8536.
Top exporters and importers of HS 853641 (the code used for signal relay), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 853641 (the code used for signal relay) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 12% 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 853641, not only signal relay.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $994M 20% of world exports
- 2 Germany $649M 13% of world exports
- 3 Japan $552M 11% of world exports
World total: $5.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $611M 12% of world imports
- 2 Germany $526M 11% of world imports
- 3 Mexico $501M 10% of world imports
World total: $5.0B 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 code for signal relay
Brazil classifies signal relay under NCM 8536.41.00: HS 8536.41 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about signal relay
What is the HS code for Signal relay?
The HS code for Signal relay is 853641 (Electrical apparatus; relays, (for a voltage not exceeding 60 volts)). The HS code for a signal relay with an operating voltage not exceeding 60 volts is 8536.41.
How do I classify Signal relay for customs?
Signal relay is classified under HS code 853641 — Electrical apparatus; relays, (for a voltage not exceeding 60 volts). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between 8536.41 and 8536.49?
The difference is the voltage rating; 8536.41 is for relays up to 60V, while 8536.49 is for relays between 60V and 1,000V.
Which countries are the top exporters of signal relay (HS 853641)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 853641 (the code used for signal relay) in UN Comtrade data were China ($994M, 20% of world exports), Germany ($649M) and Japan ($552M). World exports came to about $5.0B, 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 signal relay (HS 853641)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 853641 (the code used for signal relay) in UN Comtrade data were China ($611M, 12% of world imports), Germany ($526M) and Mexico ($501M). World imports came to about $5.0B, 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 Signal relay the same in all countries?
The base HS code 853641 for Signal relay 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 signal relay in Brazil?
In Brazil, signal relay (HS 853641) is classified under NCM 8536.41.00.