Gear Shift Knob
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8708996890 | 87.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8708407580 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7616995190 | 87.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7616995170 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926301000 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926902500 | 24.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π οΈ Gear Shift Knob (Stick Shift Lever / Shifter Knob)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition: What is a Gear Shift Knob?
A Gear Shift Knob (also known as a stick shift lever knob, shifter knob, or gear lever knob) is a component attached to the end of the manual or automatic transmission shift lever. It serves as the interface for the driver to select gears. These parts are primarily classified under Motor Vehicle Parts (Chapter 87).
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on whether the item is: 1. Specifically identifiable for use only in motor vehicles (Ch 87); or 2. General-purpose mechanical components (e.g., generic knobs, handles, or fittings for machinery) which might fall under Chapter 84 or 96.
However, for customs clearance purposes, if the part is clearly intended for automobiles (cars, trucks, motorcycles), it is almost always classified under Heading 87.08 (Parts and accessories of motor vehicles).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the knob is a generic plastic/metal knob not specific to any vehicle model β May be classified under 9613 (Tablet, etc.) or 8483 (Flywheels, etc.) depending on material/structure.
- If the knob is custom-designed for a specific vehicle brand/model (e.g., BMW M-Sport knob, Ford Mustang short-shifter) β Classified under 8708.99 (Other parts and accessories).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Concordance)
Below are the most common HS Codes for Gear Shift Knobs, particularly for imports into major markets like the USA and China.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Specificity |
|---|---|---|---|
8708.99.68.90 |
Other parts and accessories of motor vehicles: Other: Other: Other: Other: Other parts for power trains Other | Generic or aftermarket shift knobs, shifter assemblies, or components not specifically named elsewhere. Most common for "Other" knobs. | β Not specific to one model |
8708.40.75.80 |
Other parts and accessories: Gear boxes and parts thereof: Parts: Other: Other Other | Shift knobs that are integral to the gearbox mechanism or sold as part of a complete gear box assembly (rare for standalone knobs). | β Integrated with Gearbox |
8708.99.68.10 |
Other parts and accessories: Other: Other: Other: Other: Other: Other: Other parts for power trains Other (Specific Country Variations) | Note: Subheadings vary by country. In the US, 8708.99.68 is a catch-all for "Other parts". |
β Catch-all |
9613.60.00.00 |
Cigarette lighters and other lighters, and flame-producing devices, and parts thereof | Only if the shift knob is a novelty item with a built-in lighter (very rare). | β Specialty/Novelty |
3926.90.90.00 |
Other articles of plastic: Other: Other: Other, not elsewhere specified or included | If the knob is made entirely of plastic and considered a generic article not meeting the "specific part" test of Ch 87. Risk of misclassification. | β οΈ Material-based (High Risk) |
π Critical Note for USA (HTSUS):
The US uses HTS 8708.99.68.90 for most generic car parts not specifically listed. However, for Chinese-origin goods, this code is subject to significant tariffs (Section 301).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rates & Trade Policy Analysis
β Target Market: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current trade policies (Section 301 + IEEPA additions)
π― 1. 8708.99.68.90 β Other Auto Parts (Most Common for Shift Knobs)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Section 301 Additional Duty | +25% (List 3/4A items) |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (China) | +10% (If applicable under recent executive orders) |
| Total Effective Duty Rate | 37.5% (Base + 301 + IEEPA) |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 37.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Denied (deny_de_minimis) for China-origin goods under $800 |
| Legal Authority Path | HTSUS:8708.99.68.90 β USITC:9903.01.03 (Section 301) β IEEPA:9903.01.25 |
π Explanation:
- "Other parts" are generally subject to the 25% Section 301 tariff for Chinese imports. - If the knob is made of aluminum or stainless steel, ensure it doesnβt fall under metals chapters (76 or 73) which have different rates, but if itβs a finished part for a car, Ch 87 prevails. - Plastic knobs may tempt importers to use Chapter 39 (3926.90), but US Customs (CBP) often rules that if the item is specifically designed for a car, it must go to Ch 87. Misclassification can lead to audits and penalties.
π― 2. 8708.40.75.80 β Gearbox Parts (If Sold as Part of Gearbox)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.5% |
| USITC Section 301 Additional Duty | +25% |
| Total Duty Rate | 27.5% |
| Note | Only applies if the shift knob is sold with the gearbox assembly. Standalone knobs rarely qualify here. |
π οΈ IV. Clearance & Customs Compliance Advice
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory for Smooth Clearance)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Gear Shift Knob for [Make/Model]" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail quantity, weight, and packaging type |
| β Part Number Cross-Reference | βοΈ | Link to OEM numbers (e.g., OEM# 12345-AB) to prove vehicle-specific use |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Specify if Aluminum, Plastic, Leather, or Wood (affects HTS if misclassified) |
| β Country of Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Essential for determining Section 301 applicability |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the knob installed on a shifter to prove itβs a vehicle part |
β 2. Classification Strategy & Tips
π₯ "Specificity is King: If it fits, itβs a Car Part (Ch 87). If itβs generic, itβs a Plastic/Metal Good (Ch 39/76)."
| Scenario | Recommended HTS Code | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Aftermarket Aluminum Knob (e.g., Sparco, Momo style) | 8708.99.68.90 |
π’ Low (Standard) |
| OEM Replacement Knob (Toyota, Ford, etc.) | 8708.99.68.90 |
π’ Low (Clearly specific) |
| Plastic Generic Knob (Sold in hardware stores) | 3926.90.90.00 |
π‘ Medium (CBP may still challenge as Ch 87) |
| Wood/Leather Upholstery Knob | 8708.99.68.90 |
π’ Low (Trim/accessory) |
| Shift Knob with Built-in Gauge | 8708.99.68.90 or 9030.39 |
π΄ High (Complex: Part vs. Instrument) |
π Important:
- Do not classify shift knobs as "Handles" under Chapter 83 or 96 unless they are not specifically for motor vehicles. - For US Imports, ensure the "Country of Origin" is correctly declared. If assembled in China but final finishing in Mexico, rules of origin under USMCA may apply (0% duty), but this is complex for small parts.
β 3. Special Cases & Pitfalls
| Scenario | Advice |
|---|---|
| Shift Knob with LED Lights | If electrical components are integral, CBP may view it as an accessory. Still likely 8708.99.68.90, but declare electrical specs. |
| Short Shifter Assemblies | These are complete mechanical assemblies. Classify under 8708.99.68.90 as "Parts for power trains." |
| Motorcycle Shift Knobs | Classify under 8714.90 (Parts of motorcycles). Duty rates may differ slightly from cars (8708). |
| Custom Engraved/Personalized Knobs | Same HS Code, but ensure invoice describes "Personalized Gift" if applicable for lower-value declarations (though not recommended for commercial imports). |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Base Duty | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8708.99.68.90 |
37.5% (CN) | High tariffs for China. USMCA partners (Mexico/Canada) may have 0%. |
| π¨π³ China (Imports) | 8708.99.90.00 |
10-14% | Varies by exact type. Most auto parts have moderate duties. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8708.99.90 |
4.5% | No Section 301 equivalent. Stable rates. |
| π¬π§ UK | 8708.99.90 |
4.5% | Post-Brexit tariff schedule aligns closely with EU. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 8708.99.10 |
5% | GSP may apply for developing countries. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most challenging market due to Section 301 tariffs. Consider sourcing from Vietnam, Thailand, or Mexico to avoid the 25%+ levy if possible. - EU/UK have stable, lower duties (~4.5%), making them easier for margin calculation.
π VI. Common Errors & Penalties (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying as 3926.90 (Plastic Articles) to avoid Ch 87 duties.
π Consequence: CBP audit, back-tariffs, and penalties. Reason: "Specifically for motor vehicles" overrides material.
β Error 2: Using 8483.90 (Machinery Parts) for generic shift knobs.
π Consequence: Incorrect classification. Machinery parts are for industrial equipment, not cars.
β Error 3: Ignoring "Country of Origin" for assembly processes.
π Consequence: If a Chinese knob is finished in Vietnam, it might qualify for lower duties, but requires strict proof of substantial transformation.
β Best Practice:
"Declare as 'Gear Shift Knob, Aftermarket, For [Vehicle Make/Model], HTS 8708.99.68.90'."
Provide photos, part numbers, and material composition.
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Sourcing & Clearance
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Shift Knobs = Auto Parts (Ch 87) in most commercial contexts.
πΉ US Tariff Risk = High for China-origin goods (37.5%+).
πΉ Solution: Source from USMCA or ASEAN countries if possible, or factor tariffs into pricing.
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes, consider applying for a Tariff Preference Level (TPL) or Exclusion (if available under Section 301) for specific shift knob models that are not available from US suppliers.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker for Advance Rulings if you are unsure about "Specificity."
π¦ Ensure your Invoice Description matches the HS Code exactly.
π Plan your supply chain to mitigate 301 Tariff exposure.
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Margin Depends on Getting the HS Code Right!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.