85311000
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Electric sound or visual signalling apparatus (for example, bells, sirens, indicator panels, burglar or fire alarms), other than those of heading 8512 or 8530
Burglar or fire alarms and similar apparatus
Classification scope of subheading 8531 10
Subheading 8531 10 covers electric burglar and fire alarm apparatus. This includes burglar alarm systems (control panels, PIR motion detectors, magnetic contacts), fire detection systems (fire alarm panels, smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points), alarm sirens and sounders, alarm control panels and integrated wireless alarm systems. Key criterion: designed for detecting threats (intrusion, fire) and signalling alarm. CCTV systems are not classified here - cameras are heading 8525. Classification is based on GIR Rules 1 and 6.
Regulatory requirements for alarms in the EU
Burglar alarms are subject to EN 50131 (intrusion alarm systems) defining security grades (Grade 1–4). Fire detection systems are subject to EN 54 (fire detection and alarm systems) and require notified body certification under Regulation (EU) 305/2011 on construction products (CPR). RED (2014/53/EU) applies to wireless systems. EMC (2014/30/EU) and LVD (2014/35/EU) require CE. RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU) restricts hazardous substances. CBAM does not apply.
Customs duties and ITA for alarms
MFN rates for 8531 10 should be verified in TARIC. Alarm systems may qualify for ITA reduced rates. Preferential rates under FTAs may be available. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to EU sanctions. National VAT is charged.
Burglar and fire alarms - CPR regulation compliance
Importing burglar and fire alarms (CN 8531 10) into the European Union requires compliance with RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), WEEE 2 (2012/19/EU) and CE marking. An EORI number and correct customs declaration are mandatory. MFN duty rates should be verified in TARIC, as ITA preferences or EU FTA rates (e.g. CETA, EPA, EU-Korea) may apply. Import from Russia and Belarus is subject to EU sanctions. National import VAT applies at the destination Member State rate.
Frequently asked questions
What does CN subheading 8531 10 cover?
Electric burglar and fire alarms: control panels, PIR detectors, magnetic contacts, fire alarm panels, smoke and heat detectors, sirens and alarm control panels. It excludes CCTV cameras (8525) and indicator panels (8531 20).
What EN standards apply to alarms in the EU?
Burglar alarms: EN 50131 (Grades 1–4). Fire detection: EN 54 series. Smoke detectors: EN 14604. Notified body certification is required for fire systems under the CPR construction products regulation.
Do wireless alarms require additional certificates?
Yes. Wireless alarm systems are subject to the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU) requiring CE marking. They must operate on permitted frequencies. Additionally, they must meet EN 50131 for burglar alarms or EN 54 for fire systems.
What regulations apply when importing burglar and fire alarms CN 8531 10?
Importing burglar and fire alarms (CN 8531 10) requires RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), WEEE 2 (2012/19/EU) compliance, CE marking and an EORI number. Check the duty rate in TARIC. Import VAT applies.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Related glossary terms