Hooks, eyes and eyelets

CN subheading 830810 covers hooks, eyes and eyelets of base metals such as steel, brass, aluminium and zinc. These are small haberdashery and leather goods fittings primarily used in the clothing, upholstery and decorative industries. Products classified here include curtain and net curtain eyelets, metal eyelets for belts and bags, garment hooks for skirts and shorts, lace eyelets for footwear and luggage, as well as eyelets for military and outdoor equipment. The subheading covers both surface-treated products (nickel-plated, chrome-plated, lacquered) and raw steel or copper alloy items. Goods may be presented loose, in bulk packaging, or on feeding tapes for automatic press machines used in the leather goods and clothing industries. Chapter 83 of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) covers miscellaneous articles of base metal. Subheading 830810 specifically covers eyelets, hooks and eyes as distinct from rivets (830820) and clasps, buckles and snap fasteners (830890). The key distinguishing criterion is the function of guiding a cord, lace or material through an opening, rather than mechanically coupling two separate elements. In case of doubt, Binding Tariff Information (BTI) ruling should be sought from the competent customs authority.

Hooks, eyes and eyelets classified under CN 830810 are used across a wide range of industrial sectors. In the clothing industry, metal eyelets reinforce openings for laces in footwear, sportswear and backpacks, while garment hooks provide invisible fastenings for skirts, shorts and corsets. In the decorative and upholstery sector, eyelets and curtain rings are mounted on curtains, blinds and awnings. Manufacturers of bags, backpacks and leather accessories use eyelets to thread straps and carrying cords. In technical applications, metal eyelets protect cable and tube feed-throughs in flexible materials. Correct classification requires analysis of material, finish and function of the product. Goods of precious metal or plated with precious metal may be classified differently. Products deliberately designed as technical components, such as cable grommets for electrical machines, may qualify for other chapters. Full technical documentation from the manufacturer, including datasheets specifying the intended use, facilitates correct customs clearance and helps avoid costly reclassification.

Imports of goods classified under CN 830810 into the European Union are governed by the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). The importer must hold an EORI number and submit a customs declaration electronically via the relevant national import system. Required documentation includes a commercial invoice with a precise product description and material composition, transport document (CMR, B/L or AWB), and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. MFN duty rates for subheading 830810 must be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database, as they may depend on the material and surface finish of the product. Preferential rates may be available under EU free trade agreements (including CETA, EPA with Japan, the EU-Korea agreement) or the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries. Importers regularly sourcing these goods should check for any anti-dumping measures applying to specific countries of origin. CE marking is not required for this product category; however, products intended for children may be subject to toy safety regulations and REACH restrictions. All current duty rates and trade measures should be verified in the TARIC database before each customs declaration.

CN code 8308 10 covers hooks, eyes and eyelets of base metal. Import into the EU is subject to standard TARIC duty rates. Products must meet relevant EN standards and REACH requirements for chemical substances in metals. Customs declarations require a commercial invoice, certificate of origin and manufacturer's declaration of conformity.