39235000
PLASTICS AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Articles for the conveyance or packing of goods, of plastics; stoppers, lids, caps and other closures, of plastics
Stoppers, lids, caps and other closures
Description of plastic closures
CN code 3923 50 covers stoppers, lids, caps, capsules and other closures of plastics. These are articles for closing bottles, jars, containers and packaging. The most commonly used materials are PP - dominant in beverage and food caps, HDPE - used in milk and detergent bottle closures, and LDPE - in flexible closures. Plastic caps may incorporate gaskets, tamper-evident rings, sport-cap mechanisms, dispensers and membranes. The SUP Directive (EU 2019/904) introduced the requirement for tethered caps on beverage bottles from July 2024, forcing cap redesign by manufacturers across the industry.
Regulations and import requirements
Import of plastic closures into the EU is subject to REACH and, for food contact, Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Beverage bottle caps must meet the tethered caps requirement under SUP from 2024. Gaskets must meet migration requirements for both the cap material and the gasket. The Packaging Directive and EPR apply. Importers should verify thread standards and dimensions for European market compatibility.
Trade and classification
Plastic closures under CN code 3923 50 represent a significant packaging segment. Imports originate from China, Turkey, India and Asian countries. In tariff classification, plastic closures fall under 3923 50 regardless of polymer. Metal closures are classified under Chapter 83. Closures supplied with bottles are classified together under 3923 30. Customs documentation should specify material, closure type, thread diameter and intended use.
Properties of Plastic closures and caps and trade applications
Plastic products classified under CN code 3923 50 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 is the tethered caps requirement?
The SUP Directive requires beverage bottle caps (up to 3 litres) to remain attached to the bottle after opening (tethered caps). The aim is to prevent cap littering. The requirement applies from July 2024 to PET, HDPE and other plastic bottles. Manufacturers have implemented solutions such as plastic hinges (flip-cap) and straps connecting the cap to the tamper-evident ring.
What materials are used in beverage caps?
Beverage caps are mainly made from PP and HDPE. PP dominates caps for carbonated beverage PET bottles due to good stress and chemical resistance. HDPE is used for milk and juice bottle caps. Carbonated beverage caps must ensure pressure seal. Gaskets may be PE, EVA or PE-coated aluminium foil. Tethered caps require flexible hinges, most commonly from PP material.
Are closures imported separately classified differently?
Plastic closures imported separately (without bottles) are classified under CN code 3923 50 as an independent product. Closures imported together with bottles as a set are classified under 3923 30 (bottles). If closures contain metal elements (e.g. aluminium membrane), classification depends on the dominant material. Fully metal closures are classified under Chapter 83.
Are products CN 3923 50 affected by the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive?
Some products CN 3923 50 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.
Useful tools & resources
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