42021900
ARTICLES OF LEATHER; SADDLERY AND HARNESS; TRAVEL GOODS, HANDBAGS AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS; ARTICLES OF ANIMAL GUT (OTHER THAN SILKWORM GUT)›Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, executive-cases, briefcases, school satchels, spectacle cases, binocular cases, camera cases, musical instrument cases, gun cases, holsters and similar containers; travelling-bags, insulated food or beverages bags, toilet bags, rucksacks, handbags, shopping-bags, wallets, purses, map-cases, cigarette-cases, tobacco-pouches, tool bags, sports bags, bottle-cases, jewellery boxes, powder boxes, cutlery cases and similar containers, of leather or of composition leather, of sheeting of plastics, of textile materials, of vulcanised fibre or of paperboard, or wholly or mainly covered with such materials or with paper
Other
Classification scope of CN code 4202 19
CN code 4202 19 covers trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, briefcases, school satchels, and similar containers with an outer surface of materials other than leather, composition leather, patent leather, plastics, or textile materials. This category includes articles with an outer surface of metal, wood, wicker, bamboo, straw, raffia, paper, cardboard, rubber, and other materials not specified in subheadings 4202 11 and 4202 12. Examples include aluminum technical cases, wooden travel chests, wicker trunks, and suitcases with reinforced cardboard surfaces. Classification is based on the predominant material of the outer surface. In commercial practice, this heading is used less frequently than 4202 11 and 4202 12, as most luggage is manufactured from leather, plastics, or textiles.
Import requirements and customs regulations
Importing trunks and suitcases covered by CN code 4202 19 is subject to product safety requirements under the GPSR regulation (EU 2023/988). For articles made from plant-based materials such as wicker, bamboo, or straw, additional phytosanitary requirements may apply to prevent pest introduction. Wooden products may require a phytosanitary certificate or proof of heat treatment in accordance with ISPM 15 standards. The REACH regulation applies to chemical substances used in the manufacturing process, including dyes, adhesives, and protective coatings. Aluminum and metal suitcases follow standard customs procedures without additional material-specific requirements, unless they contain leather elements subject to CITES regulations. Duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system, taking into account the exact outer surface material.
Practical import guidelines
When importing trunks and suitcases classified under code 4202 19, precise identification of the outer surface material in customs documentation is essential. Incorrect classification into subheading 4202 11 or 4202 12 may result in applying the wrong duty rate and necessitate a correction of the customs declaration. For articles made from exotic or unusual materials, obtaining Binding Tariff Information (BTI) decision is recommended, providing classification certainty for three years. Aluminum suitcases designed for transporting specialized equipment may be subject to different classification if their primary function is protecting a specific device. Labeling should include information on the material of manufacture and country of origin. The importer should maintain technical documentation in compliance with GPSR requirements, including supplier information and product risk assessment results.
Other trunks and suitcases - import and IP protection
Products classified under CN code 4202 19 are subject to customs controls for intellectual property rights protection (Regulation (EU) 608/2013). Import requires customs declarations with accurate product description, country of origin and value. Leather products must comply with REACH requirements for chromium VI (max 3 mg/kg) and restricted substances. Country of origin and material composition labelling is required. Counterfeit goods are subject to seizure.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aluminum technical case classified under code 4202 19?
Yes, an aluminum case intended for general use in carrying personal items or tools is classified under CN code 4202 19 as a trunk or suitcase with a metal outer surface. However, it is important to distinguish general-purpose cases from specialized transport containers, which may be subject to different classification. Aluminum cases with leather elements are classified according to the material giving the article its essential character.
What phytosanitary requirements apply to wicker or bamboo suitcases?
Suitcases and trunks made of wicker, bamboo, or other plant-based materials may be subject to phytosanitary controls upon import into the EU. These controls aim to prevent the introduction of plant pests into the Union's territory. Depending on the country of origin and type of material, phytosanitary certificates confirming appropriate treatment of the material may be required. Importers should consult requirements with the relevant plant protection authority before arranging delivery.
How to obtain Binding Tariff Information (BTI) decision for unusual suitcases?
A Binding Tariff Information (BTI) decision can be obtained by submitting an application to the competent customs authority through the eBTI system. The application should include a detailed product description, samples or photographs, information on the material of manufacture and intended use. A BTI decision is binding on all EU customs authorities for a period of three years. Obtaining a BTI is particularly recommended for products made from unusual materials where classification may be uncertain.
How are IP rights protected at customs for CN 4202 19 imports?
Imports CN 4202 19 are subject to IPR controls under Regulation (EU) 608/2013. Customs can detain goods suspected of trademark infringement. Rights holders can apply for customs intervention.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Related glossary terms