Cotters and cotter pins

Subheading 7318 24 of the Combined Nomenclature covers pins and cotter pins of iron or steel, which are non-threaded fastening elements. Pins serve to connect two or more structural components by insertion into through-holes, while cotter pins secure connections against inadvertent disassembly. In commercial practice, this subheading covers dowel pins, taper pins, clevis pins, headed pins, split cotter pins and spring pins (roll pins). Classification under 7318 24 requires products to be non-threaded and made of iron or steel - threaded fasteners are classified under subheadings 7318 11 to 7318 19. Pins and cotter pins made from non-ferrous metals are classified under the relevant headings of Chapters 74-76. Manufacturing standards include ISO 2338, ISO 8734 and ISO 8752 for pins and ISO 1234 for split cotter pins. Importers should have technical specifications available indicating the applicable standard and material grade for accurate customs classification.

Importing pins and cotter pins under subheading 7318 24 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN code. The importer must hold an EORI number. Import documentation includes a commercial invoice with technical description (pin type, diameter, length, steel grade, coating, standard), packing list, transport document and certificate of origin. Pins used in construction structures are subject to the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and may require CE marking. Steel fasteners are covered by CBAM from 1 January 2026. Pins imported from China may be subject to anti-dumping duties on steel fasteners. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to EU sanctions. The GPSR Regulation (EU) 2023/988 requires importers to ensure consumer product safety. Pins used in machinery must comply with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC or the new Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. Current tariff rates and trade measures should be verified in TARIC before import.

Steel pins and cotter pins under subheading 7318 24 are subject to various EU trade defence measures. Steel fasteners from China may face anti-dumping duties - importers must check TARIC for current AD rates applicable to their CN code and Chinese exporter. Steel safeguard measures in the form of tariff rate quotas may cover these products. Imports from Russia and Belarus are prohibited or restricted under EU sanctions packages. Preferential tariff rates are available under EU FTAs including CETA, the Japan EPA and the South Korea agreement, subject to rules of origin compliance and valid proof of origin documents (EUR.1, invoice declaration, REX). From 2026, steel fasteners are subject to CBAM, creating additional administrative and cost obligations for importers. Total import cost should factor in MFN or preferential duty, AD duties, safeguard surcharges, CBAM charges and VAT. Current trade measures must be verified in the European Commission TARIC system prior to placing orders.

CN code 7318 24 of the Combined Nomenclature covers steel pins and cotter pins within Chapter 73, which deals with articles of iron or steel. Classification in this chapter is based on the type of article, its intended use, manufacturing method (casting, forging, welding, stamping) and base material (cast iron, non-alloy steel, stainless steel or alloy steel). Correct classification requires analysis of technical documentation. Where classification is uncertain, importers can obtain Binding Tariff Information (BTI) ruling from customs authorities, valid for three years throughout the EU.