Chapter 83 is a dedicated chapter in the HS classification system for "Miscellaneous articles of base metal," covering base metal articles not listed in other chapters, such as locks, hinges, door and window fittings, tableware, decorative pieces, etc. The core characteristics of this chapter are: products are primarily made of base metals (iron, steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, etc.), and do not belong to the tools or cutlery category of Chapter 82, nor to the mechanical or electrical equipment of Chapters 84/85. Products of Chapter 83 are typically everyday hardware or architectural hardware with relatively simple functions, not involving power drive or complex electronic control. Heading 8301 specifically covers locks and lock catches of base metal, including padlocks, key locks, combination locks, luggage locks, automobile locks, furniture locks, etc., as well as matching keys, lock cylinders, lock bolts and other parts. The core criteria for this heading are: the product must be made of base metal, and its primary function must be "locking" or "fastening," achieving security protection through mechanical structure. It is worth noting that 8301 does not include electric locks, electromagnetic locks or other locks requiring electric power (classified under Chapter 85), nor does it include locks primarily made of plastic or wood (classified under Chapter 39 or Chapter 44 according to material). Code 830140 is a six-digit subheading code. The first two digits "83" represent Chapter 83 "Miscellaneous articles of base metal," determining the broad category; digits 3-4 "01" represent heading 8301 "Locks and lock catches of base metal," identifying the specific product category; digits 5-6 "40" represent the subheading "Other locks," i.e., locks under 8301 other than those already listed such as padlocks (830110), locks for motor vehicles (830120), furniture locks (830130), etc. 830140 is a "residual" subheading covering locks not separately listed under other subheadings, such as architectural door locks, safe locks, bicycle locks, luggage locks, industrial equipment locks, etc. This commodity is classified under 830140 rather than adjacent codes for the following reasons: first, the material is base metal, excluding plastic locks (3926) or wooden locks (4421); second, the function is mechanical locking, excluding electric locks (8531 or 8543); third, it does not fall under the specific subheadings for padlocks (830110), vehicle locks (830120), or furniture locks (830130), and therefore falls within the residual scope of "Other locks." If a lock has electronic combination or fingerprint functions but is primarily mechanical in structure, it may still be classified under 830140; if the electronic part constitutes the primary function, it may be classified under Chapter 85.
Chapter
Chapter 83 is a dedicated chapter in the HS classification system for "Miscellaneous articles of base metal," covering base metal articles not listed in other chapters, such as locks, hinges, door and window fittings, tableware, decorative pieces, etc. The core characteristics of this chapter are: products are primarily made of base metals (iron, steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, etc.), and do not belong to the tools or cutlery category of Chapter 82, nor to the mechanical or electrical equipment of Chapters 84/85. Products of Chapter 83 are typically everyday hardware or architectural hardware with relatively simple functions, not involving power drive or complex electronic control.
Heading
Heading 8301 specifically covers locks and lock catches of base metal, including padlocks, key locks, combination locks, luggage locks, automobile locks, furniture locks, etc., as well as matching keys, lock cylinders, lock bolts and other parts. The core criteria for this heading are: the product must be made of base metal, and its primary function must be "locking" or "fastening," achieving security protection through mechanical structure. It is worth noting that 8301 does not include electric locks, electromagnetic locks or other locks requiring electric power (classified under Chapter 85), nor does it include locks primarily made of plastic or wood (classified under Chapter 39 or Chapter 44 according to material).
Digit Breakdown
Code 830140 is a six-digit subheading code. The first two digits "83" represent Chapter 83 "Miscellaneous articles of base metal," determining the broad category; digits 3-4 "01" represent heading 8301 "Locks and lock catches of base metal," identifying the specific product category; digits 5-6 "40" represent the subheading "Other locks," i.e., locks under 8301 other than those already listed such as padlocks (830110), locks for motor vehicles (830120), furniture locks (830130), etc. 830140 is a "residual" subheading covering locks not separately listed under other subheadings, such as architectural door locks, safe locks, bicycle locks, luggage locks, industrial equipment locks, etc.
Classification Basis
This commodity is classified under 830140 rather than adjacent codes for the following reasons: first, the material is base metal, excluding plastic locks (3926) or wooden locks (4421); second, the function is mechanical locking, excluding electric locks (8531 or 8543); third, it does not fall under the specific subheadings for padlocks (830110), vehicle locks (830120), or furniture locks (830130), and therefore falls within the residual scope of "Other locks." If a lock has electronic combination or fingerprint functions but is primarily mechanical in structure, it may still be classified under 830140; if the electronic part constitutes the primary function, it may be classified under Chapter 85.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The standard name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the lock type, such as "stainless steel door lock" or "brass padlock," avoiding the generic term "lock." Material: The base metal material of the main components of the declared lock, such as iron, steel, copper, zinc alloy, aluminum alloy, etc. Whether other materials are contained should be noted. Use: Describe the usage scenario of the lock, such as for doors, luggage, vehicles, industrial equipment, etc., which helps distinguish subheadings. Brand: The brand or trademark of the declared lock. If there is no brand, "no brand" must be stated for customs intellectual property verification. Model: The model or specification code of the declared product, facilitating customs identification of the specific product. If there is no model, "no model" may be entered. Lock Cylinder Type: Describe the lock cylinder structure, such as pin tumbler cylinder, disc tumbler cylinder, combination cylinder, etc., which affects classification determination. With or Without Key: Declare whether keys are included and the number of keys. Padlocks typically come with keys; combination locks do not. Packaging Specifications: Declare the quantity per carton, unit weight, etc., facilitating customs statistics and inspection. Customs declaration example: Product Name: Stainless steel door lock; Material: Stainless steel (lock body) + copper (lock cylinder); Use: For building entrance doors; Brand: No brand; Model: ML-2024; Lock Cylinder Type: Pin tumbler cylinder; With or Without Key: With 3 keys; Packaging Specifications: 20 pieces per carton, unit net weight 0.5kg. This commodity is a base metal mechanical lock, not a padlock, not a vehicle lock, not a furniture lock, classified under HS code 830140. Misclassifying stainless steel door locks under 830130 (furniture locks). Furniture locks specifically refer to locks used for furniture drawers and cabinet doors; door locks should be classified under 830140. Misclassifying mechanical locks with electronic combination under Chapter 85. If the electronic part is only auxiliary and mechanical locking is primary, it should still be classified under 830140. Omitting the lock cylinder material. If the lock cylinder is copper and the lock body is iron, they must be declared separately; otherwise, the classification may be questioned.
Product Name
The standard name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the lock type, such as "stainless steel door lock" or "brass padlock," avoiding the generic term "lock."
⚠️ Writing only "lock" or "hardware" without reflecting the specific type and material.
Material
The base metal material of the main components of the declared lock, such as iron, steel, copper, zinc alloy, aluminum alloy, etc. Whether other materials are contained should be noted.
⚠️ Writing "metal" without specifically distinguishing iron, steel, or copper, leading to classification disputes.
Use
Describe the usage scenario of the lock, such as for doors, luggage, vehicles, industrial equipment, etc., which helps distinguish subheadings.
⚠️ The use description is too broad, such as "daily use," making it impossible to determine whether it belongs to a specific subheading.
Brand
The brand or trademark of the declared lock. If there is no brand, "no brand" must be stated for customs intellectual property verification.
⚠️ Omitting the brand or falsely reporting "no brand" when the product has a trademark.
Model
The model or specification code of the declared product, facilitating customs identification of the specific product. If there is no model, "no model" may be entered.
⚠️ Incomplete model entry or model inconsistent with the actual product.
Lock Cylinder Type
Describe the lock cylinder structure, such as pin tumbler cylinder, disc tumbler cylinder, combination cylinder, etc., which affects classification determination.
⚠️ Failing to describe the lock cylinder type, leading to confusion with electronic locks.
With or Without Key
Declare whether keys are included and the number of keys. Padlocks typically come with keys; combination locks do not.
⚠️ Omitting the number of keys or falsely reporting that keys are included.
Packaging Specifications
Declare the quantity per carton, unit weight, etc., facilitating customs statistics and inspection.
⚠️ Packaging specifications inconsistent with actual conditions, affecting inspection efficiency.
Example: Customs declaration example: Product Name: Stainless steel door lock; Material: Stainless steel (lock body) + copper (lock cylinder); Use: For building entrance doors; Brand: No brand; Model: ML-2024; Lock Cylinder Type: Pin tumbler cylinder; With or Without Key: With 3 keys; Packaging Specifications: 20 pieces per carton, unit net weight 0.5kg. This commodity is a base metal mechanical lock, not a padlock, not a vehicle lock, not a furniture lock, classified under HS code 830140.
Common Mistakes:
Misclassifying stainless steel door locks under 830130 (furniture locks). Furniture locks specifically refer to locks used for furniture drawers and cabinet doors; door locks should be classified under 830140.
Misclassifying mechanical locks with electronic combination under Chapter 85. If the electronic part is only auxiliary and mechanical locking is primary, it should still be classified under 830140.
Omitting the lock cylinder material. If the lock cylinder is copper and the lock body is iron, they must be declared separately; otherwise, the classification may be questioned.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core criteria for classification include: 1) The material is base metal and constitutes the essential character; 2) The function is mechanical locking or fastening, not electrically driven; 3) It does not belong to the subheadings already listed under 8301 such as padlocks, vehicle locks, furniture locks, etc. If a lock has both mechanical and electronic functions, the primary function must be determined: if the electronic part is only used for auxiliary unlocking (such as a keypad), and mechanical locking is primary, classify under 830140; if the electronic part is core (such as fingerprint recognition, remote control), classify under Chapter 85. In addition, the use of the lock also affects subheading selection; for example, locks specifically for motor vehicles are classified under 830120, and those for furniture under 830130. 830110 Padlocks: Padlocks are portable, detachable locks typically with a U-shaped shackle; 830140 covers fixed-installation or non-padlock type locks, such as door locks and luggage locks. If the product is a padlock, it must be classified under 830110. 830120 Locks for motor vehicles: Ignition locks, door locks, luggage locks, etc. specifically for automobiles, motorcycles and other motor vehicles are classified under 830120; similar locks not for vehicles are classified under 830140. If the lock is clearly intended for vehicles, it should be classified under 830120 with priority. 830130 Furniture locks: Locks specifically for furniture (such as drawers, cabinet doors, desks) are classified under 830130; architectural door locks, industrial equipment locks, etc. are classified under 830140. If the lock is installed on furniture, it should be classified under 830130. 830160 Parts of locks: Parts of locks (such as lock cylinders, lock bolts, keys) when declared separately are classified under 830160; complete locks are classified under 830140. If declared as a complete lock set, even if it contains parts, it is still classified under 830140. 853110 Electric locks: Electric locks (such as electromagnetic locks, electronically controlled locks) are classified under 853110 or 8543; 830140 only covers mechanical locks. If the lock requires electric power and the electronic part is core, it should be classified under Chapter 85. Confirm the lock's primary material is base metal, not plastic or wood. Confirm the lock is mechanically locked, not electrically driven. Confirm it does not belong to specific subheadings such as padlocks, vehicle locks, or furniture locks. Confirm the lock's use is not specifically for motor vehicles or furniture. Confirm the declaration elements are complete, including material, use, brand, model, etc.
Basis
The core criteria for classification include: 1) The material is base metal and constitutes the essential character; 2) The function is mechanical locking or fastening, not electrically driven; 3) It does not belong to the subheadings already listed under 8301 such as padlocks, vehicle locks, furniture locks, etc. If a lock has both mechanical and electronic functions, the primary function must be determined: if the electronic part is only used for auxiliary unlocking (such as a keypad), and mechanical locking is primary, classify under 830140; if the electronic part is core (such as fingerprint recognition, remote control), classify under Chapter 85. In addition, the use of the lock also affects subheading selection; for example, locks specifically for motor vehicles are classified under 830120, and those for furniture under 830130.
Confused Codes:
830110 - Padlocks
Padlocks are portable, detachable locks typically with a U-shaped shackle; 830140 covers fixed-installation or non-padlock type locks, such as door locks and luggage locks. If the product is a padlock, it must be classified under 830110.
830120 - Locks for motor vehicles
Ignition locks, door locks, luggage locks, etc. specifically for automobiles, motorcycles and other motor vehicles are classified under 830120; similar locks not for vehicles are classified under 830140. If the lock is clearly intended for vehicles, it should be classified under 830120 with priority.
830130 - Furniture locks
Locks specifically for furniture (such as drawers, cabinet doors, desks) are classified under 830130; architectural door locks, industrial equipment locks, etc. are classified under 830140. If the lock is installed on furniture, it should be classified under 830130.
830160 - Parts of locks
Parts of locks (such as lock cylinders, lock bolts, keys) when declared separately are classified under 830160; complete locks are classified under 830140. If declared as a complete lock set, even if it contains parts, it is still classified under 830140.
853110 - Electric locks
Electric locks (such as electromagnetic locks, electronically controlled locks) are classified under 853110 or 8543; 830140 only covers mechanical locks. If the lock requires electric power and the electronic part is core, it should be classified under Chapter 85.
Self-Check:
✓ Confirm the lock's primary material is base metal, not plastic or wood.
✓ Confirm the lock is mechanically locked, not electrically driven.
✓ Confirm it does not belong to specific subheadings such as padlocks, vehicle locks, or furniture locks.
✓ Confirm the lock's use is not specifically for motor vehicles or furniture.
✓ Confirm the declaration elements are complete, including material, use, brand, model, etc.
❓ FAQ
What locks are specifically included in HS code 830140 "Other locks"? 830140 covers base metal mechanical locks not listed under other subheadings of 8301, such as architectural door locks, safe locks, bicycle locks, luggage locks, industrial equipment locks, mailbox locks, etc. Note: padlocks are classified under 830110, vehicle locks under 830120, furniture locks under 830130, and lock parts under 830160. How do you determine whether a lock is classified under 830140 or 830130? The key is the use: if the lock is specifically for furniture (such as drawers, cabinet doors, desks), classify under 830130; if used for architectural doors, industrial equipment, luggage, or other non-furniture scenarios, classify under 830140. If the lock is general-purpose, determine by primary use. Should locks with electronic combination be classified under 830140 or Chapter 85? The primary function must be determined: if the electronic part is only auxiliary for unlocking (such as a keypad) and mechanical locking is core, classify under 830140; if the electronic part is core (such as fingerprint recognition, remote control, electromagnetic drive), classify under Chapter 85 (such as 853110). It is recommended to provide product manuals and structural diagrams for customs determination. When declaring 830140, how should the material be filled in? The base metal materials of the main components such as the lock body, lock cylinder, and shackle should be declared separately, e.g., "lock body stainless steel, lock cylinder copper, shackle iron." If non-base metal materials are included (such as plastic handles), they should also be noted, but classification is based primarily on base metal. Do locks under 830140 require CE certification for export to the EU? Locks exported to the EU generally need to comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) or Machinery Directive, but this depends on the specific use. Architectural door locks may require CE certification, while ordinary luggage locks may not. It is recommended to check relevant EU directives and consult certification bodies. If a lock is packaged as a set containing a lock and keys, how should it be classified? A lock packaged as a set (lock + keys) is classified as a complete lock under 830140. If keys are declared separately, they are classified under 830160 (parts of locks). Note: a lock packaged as a set is still classified as a lock even if it contains multiple parts. How can I check the import tariff rate for 830140? Tariff rates vary by country, trade agreement, and country of origin. You can check China Customs' "Import and Export Tariff Schedule" or the destination country's customs website, searching with HS code 830140. Note: tariff rates change, and the latest official data should be used. What are common mistakes made by cross-border e-commerce sellers when declaring 830140? Common mistakes include: misreporting padlocks as 830140 (should be 830110), omitting brand or model, non-specific material descriptions, and vague use descriptions. It is recommended to fill in each declaration element item by item and retain product images and manuals for reference.
Q: What locks are specifically included in HS code 830140 "Other locks"?
A: 830140 covers base metal mechanical locks not listed under other subheadings of 8301, such as architectural door locks, safe locks, bicycle locks, luggage locks, industrial equipment locks, mailbox locks, etc. Note: padlocks are classified under 830110, vehicle locks under 830120, furniture locks under 830130, and lock parts under 830160.
Q: How do you determine whether a lock is classified under 830140 or 830130?
A: The key is the use: if the lock is specifically for furniture (such as drawers, cabinet doors, desks), classify under 830130; if used for architectural doors, industrial equipment, luggage, or other non-furniture scenarios, classify under 830140. If the lock is general-purpose, determine by primary use.
Q: Should locks with electronic combination be classified under 830140 or Chapter 85?
A: The primary function must be determined: if the electronic part is only auxiliary for unlocking (such as a keypad) and mechanical locking is core, classify under 830140; if the electronic part is core (such as fingerprint recognition, remote control, electromagnetic drive), classify under Chapter 85 (such as 853110). It is recommended to provide product manuals and structural diagrams for customs determination.
Q: When declaring 830140, how should the material be filled in?
A: The base metal materials of the main components such as the lock body, lock cylinder, and shackle should be declared separately, e.g., "lock body stainless steel, lock cylinder copper, shackle iron." If non-base metal materials are included (such as plastic handles), they should also be noted, but classification is based primarily on base metal.
Q: Do locks under 830140 require CE certification for export to the EU?
A: Locks exported to the EU generally need to comply with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) or Machinery Directive, but this depends on the specific use. Architectural door locks may require CE certification, while ordinary luggage locks may not. It is recommended to check relevant EU directives and consult certification bodies.
Q: If a lock is packaged as a set containing a lock and keys, how should it be classified?
A: A lock packaged as a set (lock + keys) is classified as a complete lock under 830140. If keys are declared separately, they are classified under 830160 (parts of locks). Note: a lock packaged as a set is still classified as a lock even if it contains multiple parts.
Q: How can I check the import tariff rate for 830140?
A: Tariff rates vary by country, trade agreement, and country of origin. You can check China Customs' "Import and Export Tariff Schedule" or the destination country's customs website, searching with HS code 830140. Note: tariff rates change, and the latest official data should be used.
Q: What are common mistakes made by cross-border e-commerce sellers when declaring 830140?
A: Common mistakes include: misreporting padlocks as 830140 (should be 830110), omitting brand or model, non-specific material descriptions, and vague use descriptions. It is recommended to fill in each declaration element item by item and retain product images and manuals for reference.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.