Motor vehicle|HTS Code

Motor vehicle harmonized system code

Product Overview Motor vehicles classified under HTS 8703.23 are passenger cars principally designed for the transport of persons and fitted with spark‑ignition reciprocating piston engines with a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cc but not exceeding 3,000 cc. Key characteristics include measured engine displacement (1,501–3,000 cc), curb weight typically in the range of ~1,100–2,200 kg depending on trim, common GVWR tiers, multi‑speed transmissions (manual or automatic), OEM powertrain assemblies, and standard active/passive safety systems (ABS, airbags, stability control). Processing levels cover complete built‑up vehicles and factory‑assembled variants; commercial product forms include new unused units and used/second‑hand vehicles. Quality attributes relevant to customs and trade professionals include documented odometer history, conformance to manufacturer production tolerances, OEM parts fitment, and verified emissions/safety test results. Subcategories of interest under the 8703.23 trade grouping commonly tracked by importers and brokers include new vs. used status, left‑/right‑hand drive designation, body style (sedan, hatchback, wagon), and spark‑ignition hybrids where the primary propulsion is a spark‑ignition engine. Primary commercial applications are retail dealership sales, rental/fleet operations, corporate transport, ride‑service fleets, and light urban passenger transport. HTS Code Classification & Trade Specifications 8703.23 is the six‑digit HTS subheading located in Chapter 87 (vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling‑stock; parts and accessories) under Heading 8703 (motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons). Full hierarchical breakdown: Chapter 87 → Heading 8703 → Subheading 8703.23 (spark‑ignition internal combustion piston engine; cylinder capacity >1,500 cc ≤3,000 cc). The United States applies additional 8‑ to 10‑digit national subdivisions for duty rates and statistical purposes. Classification rationale: placement depends on principal use (passenger transport), propulsion type (spark‑ignition reciprocating piston engine) and measured engine displacement per Harmonized System Notes and the General Rules of Interpretation. Trade considerations for customs clearance and shipping include RORO or container transport (20/40‑ft) with certified lashings, fuel retention policies (commonly ≤5% tank level), battery isolation, corrosion prevention (VCI film/desiccant), dimensional weight and GVW constraints, and deck stowage requirements. Required documentation and quality standards include VIN, MSO/title, odometer disclosure, EPA/DOT/CARB compliance where applicable, pre‑shipment inspection certificates, and adherence to SAE/ISO test protocols.

Motor vehicle Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter does not cover railway or tramway rolling-stock designed solely for running on rails. 2.- For the purposes of this Chapter, “tractors” means vehicles constructed essentially for hauling or pushing another vehicle, appliance or load, whether or not they contain subsidiary provision for the transport, in connection with the main use of the tractor, of tools, seeds, fertilisers or other goods. Machines and working tools designed for fitting to tractors of heading 87.01 as interchangeable equipment remain classified in their respective headings even if presented with the tractor, and whether or not mounted on it. 3.- Motor chassis fitted with cabs fall in headings 87.02 to 87.04, and not in heading 87.06. 4.- Heading 87.12 includes all children's bicycles. Other children's cycles fall in heading 95.03.