8708 80Select TARIC subcode
Suspension systems and parts thereof (including shock-absorbers)
Available TARIC subcodes: 6
8708 802010
Upper strut insulator containing - a metal holder with three mounting screws, and - a rubber bumpfor use in the manufacture of goods of Chapter 87
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 802090
Other
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 803510
Upper strut insulator containing - a metal holder with three mounting screws, and - a rubber bumpfor use in the manufacture of goods of Chapter 87
Duty 0-4,5%VAT 23%
8708 803590
Other
Duty 0-4,5%VAT 23%
8708 809930
with a chrome coating, -of a diameter of 11 mm or more, but not more than 28 mm, -of a length of 80 mm or more, but not more than 600 mm,with a threaded end or a mandrel for resistance welding
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
8708 809990
Other
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
Classification of shock absorbers CN 870880
CN code 870880 covers suspension systems and their parts, including shock absorbers and anti-roll bars, intended for motor vehicles under headings 8701 to 8705. Shock absorbers are suspension elements responsible for damping vibrations and ensuring driving stability. This code classifies hydraulic, gas, and pneumatic shock absorbers, suspension springs (coil, leaf, pneumatic), wishbones, anti-roll bars, stabiliser links, and air suspension bellows. Modern suspension systems also include adaptive systems with electronically controlled shock absorbers. Importing these subassemblies follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system.
Import requirements for suspension components
Importing shock absorbers and suspension components into the EU requires compliance with quality and safety standards. Aftermarket shock absorbers do not require E-mark approval but must meet General Product Safety Directive requirements. Aftermarket manufacturers should ensure their products are compatible with specific vehicle models and do not impair handling characteristics. Pressurised gas shock absorbers may be subject to regulations on transporting pressurised goods. The customs value of suspension components includes the purchase price, transport, and insurance to the EU border. Importers may benefit from preferential duty rates under EU trade agreements. Importing air suspension components requires verification of compliance with EU pressure standards.
Shock absorber market and suspension innovations
The shock absorber and suspension components market is one of the largest automotive aftermarket segments. Leading manufacturers – Sachs (ZF), Monroe (Tenneco), Bilstein, KYB – offer products for both OEM and aftermarket channels. Asian shock absorber imports represent a growing share of the replacement market. Technological trends include adaptive suspension with magnetorheological shock absorbers, air suspension with electronic ride height control, and predictive active suspension using cameras and navigation data for pre-emptive suspension adaptation to road profiles. Electric vehicles require specially tuned shock absorbers due to greater vehicle mass from battery packs. The aftermarket grows with vehicle fleet ageing and natural wear of suspension components.
Frequently asked questions
Do aftermarket shock absorbers require approval in the EU?
Aftermarket shock absorbers do not require separate E-mark approval. They must however meet general product safety standards and be compatible with the intended vehicle. Aftermarket manufacturers typically provide TUV certificates or other documentation confirming compliance with quality standards. Fitting shock absorbers with modified characteristics (e.g., sport versions) may require registration document entries in some EU countries, particularly if they change vehicle ride height.
How to classify air suspension – is it CN code 870880?
Yes, air suspension components – air springs, suspension compressors, control valves, and controllers – are classified under CN code 870880 as suspension system parts for motor vehicles. Air suspension bellows should not be confused with airbags (code CN 870895). Complete air suspension systems, including electronic controllers, may be classified as a complete suspension assembly under the same code.
Are suspension springs covered by CN code 870880?
Yes, suspension springs – coil, leaf, and pneumatic – are classified under CN code 870880 as suspension system parts for motor vehicles. This applies to springs for passenger cars, trucks, buses, and agricultural tractors. Lowered sport suspension springs also fall within this code. Regardless of material and construction, springs intended for vehicle suspension under headings 8701-8705 are classified under CN code 870880.