HS Code for Vehicle inner tubes

Vehicle inner tubes are classified under HS code 4013.10. This code falls within Chapter 40, which covers rubber and articles thereof. Specifically, heading 4013 is dedicated to inner tubes made of vulcanized rubber. The subheading 4013.10 is restricted to those tubes used for motorcars (including station wagons and racing cars), buses, or lorries. The classification is based on the material composition (vulcanized rubber) and the specific application (pneumatic tires for motor vehicles). According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, these articles are designed to be fitted inside the casing of a pneumatic tire to maintain air pressure. The classification remains the same whether the tubes are imported separately or as part of a kit, provided they are not already mounted inside a tire, which might change the classification to the tire assembly under 4011.

Products Included

• Inner tubes for passenger automobiles
• Inner tubes for commercial buses
• Inner tubes for heavy-duty lorries and trucks
• Inner tubes for station wagons
• Inner tubes for racing car tires

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs with HS code 4013.20, which is specifically for bicycle inner tubes. Importers also occasionally confuse 4013.10 with 4013.90, which is a residual category for inner tubes used on motorcycles, tractors, or aircraft. Furthermore, if the inner tube is made of materials other than vulcanized rubber (such as certain plastics), it would be classified in Chapter 39. It is also important not to classify these under 8708 as vehicle parts, because Chapter 40 takes precedence for rubber articles according to Section XVII Note 2(a).

FAQ

What is the HS code for vehicle inner tubes?

The HS code for inner tubes used for motorcars, buses, and lorries is 4013.10.

Are motorcycle inner tubes included in 4013.10?

No, motorcycle inner tubes are classified under HS code 4013.90, as they are not considered motorcars, buses, or lorries.