Chainsaw blades

CN code 820240 covers cutting chains (chain saw blades) designed for use in chain saws, also referred to as saw chains or chainsaw chains. These are the cutting elements of mechanical chain saws, manufactured from alloy steel and comprising alternating drive links, cutting links with sharpened cutter teeth, and tie straps (side links). Classification is based on the Notes to Section XV and Chapter 82 of the Combined Nomenclature - as handtools and blades thereof made of steel. Cutting chains may be designed for petrol-powered, electric or battery-powered chain saws used in forestry, arboriculture, construction and rescue operations. The decisive classification criterion distinguishing them from general roller chains or transmission chains in Chapter 73 is the presence of integrated cutting elements that give the chain its essential character as a saw blade within the meaning of heading 8202. Classification follows the General Interpretative Rules, in particular GIR 1, 3b and 6 for subheadings.

The import of cutting chains for chain saws into the European Union is subject to the requirements of the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 and, from 2027, Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 on machinery, where the chain is placed on the market as part of a complete chainsaw. Cutting chains sold separately as replacement parts are subject to the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988. Manufacturers and importers must ensure that cutting chains comply with EN ISO 11681-1 (chain saws for forestry use) or EN ISO 11681-2 (light-duty electric chain saws) as applicable, and that finished products bear CE marking. Import documentation should include the EU declaration of conformity, technical specifications (pitch, gauge, drive link count, tooth type, steel grade, hardness), and information demonstrating compatibility with the intended guide bar and sprocket. Importers sourcing from China and other low-cost manufacturing countries should verify that the producer holds a current certificate of conformity and declaration of conformity before placing goods on the EU market.

Cutting chains classified under CN 820240 are subject to EU trade rules under the Union Customs Code, Regulation (EU) No 952/2013. Current MFN duty rates and any safeguard or anti-dumping measures applicable to this subheading must be verified in the European Commission TARIC database before import. Preferential duty rates may be available under EU free trade agreements for goods originating from eligible countries, including CETA (Canada), the EU-Korea FTA, the EU-Japan EPA and the GSP or EBA schemes for developing countries. Proof of preferential origin must be provided in the form of a EUR.1 movement certificate, an invoice declaration or a statement on origin under the REX system. The import declaration must include a technical description of the chain (pitch, gauge, cutter type, number of links, material specification). Cutting chains made from high-alloy steel may be subject to import surveillance under EU steel safeguard measures; operators should check the current status in TARIC and the applicable steel safeguard regulation before clearing goods.

CN code 8202 40 covers cutting chains for chain saws of base metal and cermets. Importing cutting tools requires compliance with EN 847 safety standards for woodworking tools and EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Duty rates depend on country of origin and may benefit from EU trade agreement preferences. Customs clearance requires CE declaration of conformity and commercial invoice.