Hinges

Subheading 8302 10 of the Combined Nomenclature covers hinges made of base metals, representing the first category of builders hardware within heading 8302. The scope includes all types of hinges used in construction, furniture manufacturing and industry: knuckle hinges for interior and exterior doors, flat plate hinges in brass and steel, leaf hinges, concealed cup hinges for furniture (European-type hinges installed by router drilling), heavy-duty gate hinges for garage and industrial gates, continuous (piano) hinges, as well as special-purpose hinges for windows, hatches and access panels. Hinges classified in subheading 8302 10 must be made of base metals such as steel (including stainless), brass, aluminium or zinc. Stainless steel hinges of grade AISI 304 and AISI 316 offering enhanced corrosion resistance for marine and sanitary applications also fall within this subheading. Classification is carried out in accordance with the GRI of the CN. Notes to Section XV and Chapter 83 exclude from heading 8302 articles more specifically covered by other headings. Importers must distinguish hinges from heading 7318 (bolts, pins, cotters of steel as threaded articles). In cases of doubt, a BTI application is recommended.

Import of hinges of base metal under subheading 8302 10 into the European Union must comply with the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). The importer must hold an EORI number and file a customs declaration via the AIS/IMPORT system. Required documentation includes: a commercial invoice with a description of the goods (material, hinge type, application), a transport document (CMR, B/L or AWB) and a technical specification or product data sheet. Hinges intended for construction applications forming part of windows, doors or facades covered by harmonised European standards may be subject to a Declaration of Performance under Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 (CPR). Hinges for fire-rated doors (classes EI 30, EI 60, EI 90 or higher) must be covered by testing performed by a notified body. Importers wishing to benefit from preferential FTA rates must present a valid proof of origin (EUR.1, invoice declaration or REX). Current MFN duty rates must be verified in the TARIC database of the European Commission.

MFN duty rates for hinges of base metal under subheading 8302 10 must be verified in the current TARIC database of the European Commission. Preferential rates may be available under EU free trade agreements, including with South Korea (FTA), Japan (EPA), Canada (CETA), the United Kingdom (TCA) and under the GSP for developing countries. The use of a preferential rate requires documentation of compliance with rules of origin. Importers should check in TARIC whether any anti-dumping or countervailing measures apply to the relevant product and country of origin. Construction hinges from China have historically been the subject of anti-dumping investigations in the EU, so importers should verify the current status of protective measures in TARIC. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to restrictions under EU sanctions packages. VAT is charged upon import at the applicable national rate. All duty rates and trade measures should be verified in the current TARIC database.

CN code 8302 10 covers hinges of base metal. Fittings and mountings imported into the EU are subject to TARIC duty rates. Building fittings require compliance with the Construction Products Regulation EU 305/2011 and harmonised EN standards. Furniture and vehicle fittings must meet relevant sector standards. Customs clearance requires commercial invoice and declaration of conformity.