39234000
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Articles for the conveyance or packing of goods, of plastics; stoppers, lids, caps and other closures, of plastics
Spools, cops, bobbins and similar supports
Subcodes (2)
Description of plastic spools and bobbins
CN code 3923 40 covers spools, cops, bobbins and similar supports of plastics for winding tapes, films, fibres, wire, cables and continuous materials. Plastic spools are most commonly manufactured from PP, HDPE, PS and ABS by injection moulding. Main applications include spools for sewing thread, tape rolls, packaging film bobbins, welding wire spools, cable reels and paper roll cores. Plastic spools replace traditional wooden and metal spools due to lower weight, moisture resistance and lower cost. In the textile industry, PP spools are standard for yarn winding. In electronics, ABS spools are used for winding SMD components on carrier tapes.
Regulations and import requirements
Import of plastic spools into the EU is subject to REACH Regulation (EC 1907/2006). Spools as transport packaging are subject to the Packaging Directive 94/62/EC and EPR requirements when supplied with goods to end users. Reusable spools in return systems may be exempt from certain packaging obligations. The GPSR applies to consumer-sold spools. Spools for food applications must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 if contacting food products. Medical application spools fall under the MDR.
Trade and classification
Plastic spools under CN code 3923 40 represent a specialised segment. Imports originate mainly from China, Taiwan and Asian countries. Cable spools represent significant volume due to growing telecommunications and energy infrastructure markets. In tariff classification, plastic spools fall under 3923 40, wooden spools under 4415 and metal under Chapter 73. Spools supplied with wound goods are classified as packaging and do not require separate classification unless they have independent value.
Properties of Plastic spools and bobbins and trade applications
Plastic products classified under CN code 3923 40 may be subject to food contact material regulations (Regulation (EC) 1935/2004 and (EU) 10/2011) and the SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 on single-use plastics restriction. Import requires food-contact compliance declarations, technical data sheets and REACH registration for chemical substances. Customs authorities verify product compliance with EU safety standards and environmental regulations.
Frequently asked questions
What applications do plastic spools have?
Plastic spools are used for winding: thread and yarn in textiles, adhesive and insulation tapes, packaging films, welding wire, electrical cables, fishing line, printer ribbons, electronic components on carrier tapes and 3D printer filaments. Materials are mainly PP, HDPE, PS and ABS, selected based on strength and weight requirements for the specific application.
Are spools classified as packaging?
Plastic spools may be classified as transport packaging subject to the Packaging Directive 94/62/EC when supplied with goods to end users. Reusable spools in closed return systems may be subject to different rules. Spools sold separately (without wound goods) are classified under code 3923 40 as the main product. Empty spools returned to manufacturers are not subject to EPR obligations.
What materials are spools made from?
Plastic spools are most commonly made from: polypropylene (PP) - dominant in textile and packaging applications for low cost and good strength; HDPE - used in large cable spools; polystyrene (PS) - used in adhesive tape spools; ABS - used where dimensional precision is needed (electronics, 3D printing); and polycarbonate (PC) - in 3D printer filament spools requiring transparency and heat resistance.
Are products CN 3923 40 affected by the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive?
Some products CN 3923 40 may be affected by SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 restricting single-use plastics. Bans cover cutlery, plates and straws. Importers must verify whether their products fall under the restrictions.
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