Product classification
HS code for Steering column: 8708.94
Vehicle parts, steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes, parts thereof.
Classification of steering column under HS 8708.94
Steering columns are classified under HS code 8708.94. As a fundamental part of the steering system of a motor vehicle, they fall under Chapter 87 (Vehicles) and Heading 8708 (Parts and accessories of motor vehicles). Subheading 8708.94 specifically covers steering wheels, steering columns, and steering boxes. The steering column is the assembly that connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism (the box or rack). This classification includes the column housing, the internal shafts, and any integrated adjustment mechanisms, such as tilt or telescopic features. Even if the column includes electronic sensors for steering angle or ignition lock components, it is generally classified here because the steering function provides the essential character of the assembly. The classification is determined by the part's dedicated use in motor vehicles and its inclusion in the specific list provided by the 8708.94 subheading.
- Covers
- Adjustable steering columns
- Collapsible steering columns
- Steering shafts with universal joints
- Steering column housings
- Telescopic steering assemblies
- Also under 8708.94
- Momo steering wheels
- ZF steering systems
- TRW steering racks
- Nexteer Automotive columns
- Bosch electric power steering
Codes often confused with 8708.94
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs when steering columns are imported as simple steel tubes under 7304 or 7306. However, once the tube has been worked, fitted with brackets, or assembled with shafts for vehicle use, it must be classified under 8708.94. Additionally, steering columns with integrated electronic control units are sometimes incorrectly placed in Chapter 85; however, if the electronics are part of the steering assembly, 8708.94 remains the correct code.
Top exporters and importers of HS 870894 (the code used for steering column), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 870894 (the code used for steering column) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 15% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% 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 870894, not only steering column.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $3.7B 15% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $3.6B 15% of world exports
- 3 Germany $2.9B 12% of world exports
World total: $24.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $4.8B 20% of world imports
- 2 Germany $2.5B 11% of world imports
- 3 Mexico $2.1B 8.7% of world imports
World total: $23.7B 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 steering column
Brazil splits HS 8708.94 into 7 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8708.94.11Steering wheels for tractors and dumpers
- 8708.94.12Steering columns for tractors and dumpers
- 8708.94.13Steering boxes for tractors and dumpers
- 8708.94.81Steering wheels for cars, trucks and others
- 8708.94.82Steering columns for cars, trucks and others
- 8708.94.83Steering boxes for cars, trucks and others
- 8708.94.90Parts of steering wheels, columns and boxes
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about steering column
What is the HS code for Steering column?
The HS code for Steering column is 870894 (Vehicle parts; steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes; parts thereof). The HS code for a motor vehicle steering column is 8708.94, which also covers steering wheels and steering boxes.
How do I classify Steering column for customs?
Steering column is classified under HS code 870894 — Vehicle parts; steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes; parts thereof. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the steering wheel?
Yes, HS code 8708.94 specifically includes steering wheels, steering columns, and steering boxes as a single grouped category.
Which countries are the top exporters of steering column (HS 870894)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 870894 (the code used for steering column) in UN Comtrade data were China ($3.7B, 15% of world exports), Mexico ($3.6B) and Germany ($2.9B). World exports came to about $24.3B, 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 steering column (HS 870894)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 870894 (the code used for steering column) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($4.8B, 20% of world imports), Germany ($2.5B) and Mexico ($2.1B). World imports came to about $23.7B, 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.
Is the HS code for Steering column the same in all countries?
The base HS code 870894 for Steering column 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 steering column in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 870894 into 7 NCM codes, so the right one for steering column depends on the product's details: 8708.94.11 (Steering wheels for tractors and dumpers), 8708.94.12 (Steering columns for tractors and dumpers), 8708.94.13 (Steering boxes for tractors and dumpers), 8708.94.81 (Steering wheels for cars, trucks and others), 8708.94.82 (Steering columns for cars, trucks and others), 8708.94.83 (Steering boxes for cars, trucks and others), and more.