Product classification

HS code for Trailer hitches: 8716.90

Trailers, semi-trailers and other vehicles not mechanically propelled, parts thereof for heading no. 8716.

Classification of trailer hitches under HS 8716.90

Trailer hitches are classified under HS code 8716.90, which is designated for parts of trailers, semi-trailers, and other vehicles that are not mechanically propelled. As a critical component for the connection and articulation between a towing vehicle and a trailer, the hitch is considered a part "solely or principally used" with the vehicles of heading 8716. This classification follows GRI 1 and Section XVII Note 2, which defines parts of transport equipment. Because the hitch is designed to facilitate the function of the trailer rather than the motor vehicle itself, it falls under the trailer parts category. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the hitch is a ball-and-socket type, a fifth-wheel coupling, or a pintle hook, provided it is intended for use with non-mechanically propelled trailers.

Covers
  • Ball hitches for utility trailers
  • Fifth-wheel coupling devices
  • Gooseneck hitch assemblies
  • Pintle hooks and lunette rings
  • Weight-distribution hitch systems
  • Trailer couplers and safety chains
Also under 8716.90
  • SAF-Holland (axles, suspensions)
  • JOST World (fifth wheels, landing gear)
  • Dexter Axle (trailer axles, brakes)
  • Meritor (trailer components)
  • Optronics International (trailer lighting)

Codes often confused with 8716.90

Common mistake. Trailer hitches are frequently misclassified under HS code 8708.99, which covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles. While the hitch is often attached to a motor vehicle, its primary function is to serve as the interface for the trailer, making 8716.90 the more specific and accurate code. Another common error is using HS code 7326.90 for general steel articles; however, since hitches are specialized automotive parts, the specific heading in Chapter 87 takes precedence over general metalwork headings.

8708.99Vehicle parts and accessories; n.e.c. in heading no. 87087326.90Iron or steel; articles n.e.c. in heading 7326

Top exporters and importers of HS 871690 (the code used for trailer hitches), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 871690 (the code used for trailer hitches) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 20% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 15% 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 871690, not only trailer hitches.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $2.1B
  2. 2 Germany $2.0B
  3. 3 United States $1.2B

World total: $10.8B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Germany $1.7B
  2. 2 United States $1.3B
  3. 3 Mexico $690M

World total: $11.2B 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 trailer hitches

Brazil splits HS 8716.90 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:

  • 8716.90.10Trailer and semi-trailer chassis
  • 8716.90.90Other parts of trailers and non-propelled vehicles

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about trailer hitches

What is the HS code for Trailer hitches?

The HS code for Trailer hitches is 871690 (Trailers, semi-trailers and other vehicles not mechanically propelled; parts thereof for heading no. 8716). The HS code for trailer hitches and their associated coupling parts is 8716.90.

How do I classify Trailer hitches for customs?

Trailer hitches is classified under HS code 871690 — Trailers, semi-trailers and other vehicles not mechanically propelled; parts thereof for heading no. 8716. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Are hitches for passenger cars classified differently?

No, if the hitch is designed to allow a car to pull a trailer, it is still classified under 8716.90 as a part of the trailer system it enables.

Which countries are the top exporters of trailer hitches (HS 871690)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 871690 (the code used for trailer hitches) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.1B, 20% of world exports), Germany ($2.0B) and the United States ($1.2B). World exports came to about $10.8B, 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.

Which countries are the top importers of trailer hitches (HS 871690)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 871690 (the code used for trailer hitches) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($1.7B, 15% of world imports), the United States ($1.3B) and Mexico ($690M). World imports came to about $11.2B, 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 Trailer hitches the same in all countries?

The base HS code 871690 for Trailer hitches 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 trailer hitches in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 871690 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for trailer hitches depends on the product's details: 8716.90.10 (Trailer and semi-trailer chassis), 8716.90.90 (Other parts of trailers and non-propelled vehicles).