Tubular or bifurcated rivets

CN subheading 830820 covers tubular rivets and bifurcated (split) rivets of base metals such as brass, aluminium, steel and zinc. A tubular rivet is a cylindrical metal fastener with a flange on one side and a hollow shank that is flared or clinched after insertion to join layers of material. A bifurcated rivet has a shank divided into two prongs that are spread apart after passing through the material, securing it from the reverse side. Both types provide a permanent join for soft materials such as leather, fabric, paper, cardboard and thin sheet metal without the need for welding or soldering equipment. Goods classified under 830820 are widely used in the leather goods, shoe-making, fancy goods, bookbinding and clothing industries. The subheading covers surface-finished products including nickel-plated, brass-plated, lacquered, oxidised and raw finishes. Products may be presented loose or on feeding tapes for automatic press and assembly machines. Solid-shank rivets used for structural metal connections are classified under heading 7318, not 830820. Hook-and-eye and eyelet fasteners are classified under 830810.

Tubular rivets classified under CN 830820 are among the fundamental fastening elements in the leather goods and footwear industries. They are used to attach fittings, buckles, handles and labels to bags, backpacks, belts and wallets. In shoemaking they join layers of sole, heel and upper. In stationery and bookbinding, tubular rivets secure corner protectors on covers, document folders and decorative elements. In the clothing industry, bifurcated rivets fasten tapes, appliques and emblems to denim and workwear. These products may be decorative (with ornamental heads) or purely functional. The classification distinction between tubular and bifurcated rivets (830820) and solid rivets (heading 7318) is important: rivets under 830820 are designed for soft materials and are not intended for load-bearing structural steel connections. When importing, a declaration of material composition and intended end use helps prevent classification errors and potential post-clearance audits.

Imports of goods classified under CN 830820 into the European Union are governed by the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). The importer must hold an EORI number and submit a customs declaration electronically. Standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice with product description, CN code, country of origin and value, transport document, and a detailed product specification. MFN duty rates for CN 830820 must be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Preferential rates may be available under EU free trade agreements or the GSP scheme. Importers should check for anti-dumping measures or trade restrictions applying to specific countries of origin. Leather goods and clothing articles containing rivets are subject to general consumer product safety regulations. Products intended for children must comply with the Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC) or applicable children's product safety rules. Chemical substances in metallic coatings may be subject to REACH restrictions, particularly regarding nickel release limits for items intended for prolonged skin contact. All current duty rates and trade measures should be verified in TARIC before each shipment.

CN code 8308 20 covers tubular and bifurcated rivets of base metal. Import into the EU is subject to standard TARIC duty rates. Products must meet relevant EN standards and REACH requirements for chemical substances in metals. Customs declarations require a commercial invoice, certificate of origin and manufacturer's declaration of conformity.