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42023900
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

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Classification scope of CN code 4202 39

CN code 4202 39 covers articles of a kind normally carried in the pocket or in the handbag, with an outer surface of materials other than leather, composition leather, patent leather, plastics, or textile materials. This heading includes wallets, coin purses, key cases, business card holders, and similar small accessories made from metal, wood, cork, rubber, paper, straw, or other unusual materials. Example products include metal business card cases, small wooden jewelry boxes intended to be carried, cork wallets, and rubber pouches. In commercial practice, this subheading is rarely used, as the vast majority of small accessories are manufactured from leather, plastics, or textiles. The classification criteria are both the outer surface material and the intended use of being carried in a pocket or handbag, implying small dimensions.

Import requirements and customs regulations

Importing small accessories under CN code 4202 39 is subject to product safety requirements under the GPSR regulation (EU 2023/988). The REACH regulation governs chemical substance content in materials used for production, including dyes, adhesives, and protective coatings. Metal cases are subject to nickel restrictions for prolonged skin contact. For articles made from plant-based materials, phytosanitary requirements may apply. Wooden products may require proof of legal timber sourcing in compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Labeling should include information on the material of manufacture and country of origin. Duty rates depend on the specific material and country of origin and should be verified in TARIC or ISZTAR. For articles made from unusual materials, obtaining Binding Tariff Information decision ensuring classification certainty is recommended.

Practical import guidelines

When importing small accessories classified under code 4202 39, particular attention should be paid to precise identification of the outer surface material in customs documentation. Incorrect classification into subheading 4202 31 or 4202 32 may result in applying the wrong duty rate. For articles made from precious metals or decorative stones, different tariff classification may apply - such products may fall under Chapter 71. The importer should ensure the product meets EU safety requirements and maintain technical documentation in compliance with GPSR. Even for small commercial shipments, full customs procedures apply, including the requirement to hold an EORI number. Cooperation with an experienced customs agent facilitates the correct execution of import procedures.

Other wallets and cases - import and IP protection

Products classified under CN code 4202 39 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 a metal business card case classified under code 4202 39?
Yes, a metal business card case intended to be carried in a pocket is classified under CN code 4202 39 as a pocket-carried article with an outer surface of material other than leather, plastic, or textiles. Metal is not covered by subheadings 4202 31 or 4202 32, so articles with a metal surface fall under the residual heading 4202 39. Metal components must comply with REACH requirements for nickel in skin contact applications.
Is a natural cork wallet subject to classification under code 4202 39?
Yes, a wallet with a natural cork outer surface, intended to be carried in a pocket or handbag, is classified under CN code 4202 39. Cork is a material not covered by subheadings 4202 31 (leather) or 4202 32 (plastics and textiles). Cork wallets are becoming increasingly popular as ecological products. The importer should ensure compliance with REACH requirements regarding chemical substances used in the manufacturing process.
How to distinguish code 4202 39 from Chapter 71 headings for metal cases?
Metal cases made from base metals (steel, aluminum, brass) intended to be carried in a pocket are classified under code 4202 39. However, articles made from precious metals (gold, silver, platinum) or articles with precious stones may be subject to classification under Chapter 71. The key criterion is the type of metal used and the value of the article. In case of doubt, consultation with the customs authority or obtaining Binding Tariff Information decision is recommended.
How are IP rights protected at customs for CN 4202 39 imports?
Imports CN 4202 39 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.