42022200
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
With outer surface of sheeting of plastics or of textile materials
Classification scope of CN code 4202 22
CN code 4202 22 covers handbags, whether or not with a shoulder strap, including those without handles, with an outer surface of sheeting of plastics or textile materials. This is one of the most broadly applied tariff headings in accessories trade, encompassing popular faux leather handbags (PU, PVC), polyester and cotton fabric handbags, nylon bags, textile shopping bags, beach bags, and felt or other textile material bags. Classification is based on the predominant material of the outer surface. Handbags combining multiple materials are classified according to the interpretive rules of the Combined Nomenclature, typically by the material giving the article its essential character. This heading does not include plastic carrier bags (Chapter 39) or handbags exclusively made of natural leather (code 4202 21).
Import requirements and customs regulations
Importing plastic and textile handbags into the EU is subject to several regulations. The REACH regulation imposes restrictions on chemical substances in materials, including phthalates in plastics (particularly DEHP, DBP, BBP, and DIBP) and azo dyes releasing aromatic amines in textiles. The GPSR regulation (EU 2023/988) requires importers to ensure product safety and maintain technical documentation. Branded handbags made from plastics and textiles are subject to anti-counterfeiting controls at EU borders. Labeling must include information on material composition and country of origin. For handbags from certain countries, increased duty rates or trade defense measures may apply. Current duty rates and any additional duties should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system before executing the import.
Practical import guidelines
When importing plastic and textile handbags, correctly identifying the outer surface material is essential. Faux leather (eco-leather) handbags based on PU or PVC are classified under code 4202 22 as plastic surface articles, not under code 4202 21 intended for natural leather. It is important to obtain a REACH compliance declaration from the manufacturer confirming the absence of prohibited substances or those exceeding permissible limits. Before the first import from a new supplier, laboratory testing at an accredited laboratory is recommended. The customs value should reflect the actual price paid for the goods, and undervaluation is an offense carrying financial and criminal penalties. The importer should maintain a product register and be prepared for potential market controls by trade inspection authorities.
Plastic or textile handbags - import and IP protection
Products classified under CN code 4202 22 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 faux leather handbag classified under code 4202 22?
Yes, handbags made from faux leather (eco-leather) based on polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are classified under CN code 4202 22 as articles with a plastic outer surface. Faux leather is not natural or composition leather, so it does not fall under code 4202 21. Correct distinction between natural and artificial leather is essential for proper tariff classification and application of the appropriate duty rate.
What chemical substances are restricted in plastic handbags?
The REACH regulation restricts the content of numerous chemical substances in plastic handbags. Key restrictions apply to phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP), whose combined content must not exceed 0.1% of the mass of plasticized material. For textile elements, azo dyes releasing aromatic amines are restricted. Restrictions also apply to lead, cadmium, and nickel in metal components. The importer should obtain a test report from the supplier confirming REACH compliance.
How to classify a handbag combining fabric with faux leather elements?
A handbag combining fabric with faux leather elements is classified under code 4202 22, as both materials (fabric and plastic) fall under the same subheading. The classification remains unchanged regardless of the proportion of these materials on the outer surface. If a handbag were to combine natural leather with plastic, classification would be based on the material giving the article its essential character according to General Rule 3b of the General Rules for Interpretation.
How are IP rights protected at customs for CN 4202 22 imports?
Imports CN 4202 22 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.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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