39172900
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Tubes, pipes and hoses, and fittings therefor (for example, joints, elbows, flanges), of plastics
Of other plastics
Classification scope and typical products
CN code 391729 covers rigid tubes and pipes of plastics other than polyethylene (391721), polypropylene (391722) and PVC (391723). This subheading covers pipes of polyamides, polycarbonates, ABS, PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), GRP (glass fibre reinforced plastic), PTFE and other specialised polymers. GRP pipes are used in the chemical and petroleum industries due to corrosion resistance. PVDF pipes are used in ultra-pure media systems in the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries. Classification requires identification of the material as a plastic other than PE, PP and PVC.
Regulatory requirements and technical standards
Plastic pipes classified under CN 391729 are subject to REACH regulation. Pipes intended for drinking water must comply with Directive (EU) 2020/2184 and national material approvals. GRP pipes for pressure applications must comply with EN 14364 for GRP sewer pipes or the ISO 14692 series for the petroleum industry. PVDF pipes for pharmaceutical applications are subject to purity and biocompatibility standards. Polyamide pipes for pneumatic applications must comply with DIN or ISO standards. Due to the diversity of materials, certification requirements depend on the specific application and target market.
Trade and customs practice
Customs declarations for pipes under CN 391729 should specify the polymer type, diameter, wall thickness and intended use. Given the residual nature of the subheading, customs authorities may require technical documentation identifying the material. Binding Tariff Information ruling is recommended for pipes of unusual materials. Import of specialised pipes into the EU comes from various countries depending on the polymer type. Preferential duty rates may be available under FTA agreements. Verification of rates in TARIC is recommended.
Properties of Tubes and pipes of other plastics and trade applications
Products classified under CN code 3917 29 as construction products fall under the Construction Products Regulation CPR (EU) 305/2011. Import requires CE marking, Declaration of Performance (DoP) and compliance with relevant harmonised EN standards. Customs clearance requires certification documents, installation instructions and technical data sheets. Products must meet fire reaction class and mechanical resistance requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Are GRP (glass fibre reinforced plastic) pipes classified under CN 391729?
Yes. Glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP/GFK) pipes are classified under CN 391729 as rigid pipes of plastic other than PE, PP and PVC. The key requirement is that the polymer matrix constitutes the base material of the pipe.
Are PVDF pipes for ultra-pure water classified under this code?
Yes. PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) pipes constitute rigid pipes of plastic other than PE, PP and PVC and are classified under CN 391729. PVDF pipes for pharmaceutical applications may require additional documentation regarding material purity.
Are polyamide pipes for pneumatic installations classified under CN 391729?
Rigid polyamide pipes are classified under CN 391729. However, flexible polyamide tubes (hoses) are classified under CN 3917.31-3917.39 depending on their strength parameters. The decisive factor is the nature of the pipe (rigid or flexible).
Do products CN 3917 29 require CE marking for EU import?
Yes, products CN 3917 29 as construction products require CE marking under CPR (EU) 305/2011. A Declaration of Performance (DoP) and compliance with the relevant harmonised EN standard are mandatory.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Related glossary terms