Other parts and accessories - Radiators and parts thereof

CN code 870891 covers radiators and their parts intended for motor vehicles under headings 8701 to 8705. Radiators are cooling system components responsible for dissipating heat from the coolant to the surrounding air. This code classifies liquid (water) radiators, engine oil coolers, transmission oil coolers, charge air coolers (intercoolers), and air conditioning condensers. The code covers both complete radiators and their parts - radiator cores, expansion tanks, radiator caps, and thermostats. Importing radiators follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system. Radiators do not require separate E-mark approval but must meet quality standards ensuring safe operation of the vehicle cooling system.

Importing radiators classified under CN code 870891 requires a correct customs declaration with an accurate description of the radiator type and its purpose. The customs value includes the purchase price, transport costs, and insurance to the EU border. Aluminium radiators may be subject to different regulations than copper radiators due to material differences. Importers may benefit from preferential duty rates under EU trade agreements, provided a certificate of origin is held. Radiators intended for vehicle production for export may be placed under the inward processing procedure. Aftermarket radiators should meet thermal performance standards comparable to original parts. Importing radiators containing refrigerant (in the case of air conditioning condensers) is subject to additional regulations on substances controlled by the EU F-gas Regulation.

The automotive radiator market is evolving under the influence of changes in vehicle design. Electric vehicles require radiators for battery pack thermal management, creating a new market segment. Electric vehicle cooling systems use plate heat exchangers and low-pressure radiators. Traditional radiators for combustion engines remain dominant, with a growing share of aluminium constructions replacing copper ones. Manufacturers such as Denso, Valeo, Mahle, and Nissens supply radiators to OEM and aftermarket channels. Asian radiator imports represent a significant share of the European replacement market. Innovations include radiators with reduced mass and increased thermal efficiency, integrated radiators combining engine cooling and air conditioning functions, and materials with enhanced corrosion resistance.

Importing vehicle radiators (CN 8708 91) into the EU requires EU type-approval under Regulation (EU) 2018/858. The MFN duty rate should be verified in the TARIC database. Customs clearance requires an EORI number and a correct declaration. Preferential rates may apply under FTAs such as EU-Korea, EU-Japan EPA, or CETA. National import VAT is charged at the destination Member State rate.