8708 95Select TARIC subcode
Safety airbags with inflator system; parts thereof
Available TARIC subcodes: 7
8708 951020
sewn, - folded, - with three-dimensionally applied silicone bonding for air bag cavity forming and load-regulated air bag sealing - suitable for cool inflator technology
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 951030
folded into three-dimensional packing form, fixed by thermal forming, dedicated fixation seams, fabric cover or plastic staples, or -flat safety cushion with or without thermal folding
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 951090
Other
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 959930
sewn, - folded, - with three-dimensionally applied silicone bonding for air bag cavity forming and load-regulated air bag sealing - suitable for cool inflator technology
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
8708 959940
folded into three-dimensional packing form, fixed by thermal forming, dedicated fixation seams, fabric cover or plastic staples, or -flat safety cushion with or without thermal folding
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
8708 959950
Airbag inflator containing both pyrotechnics and cold gas as propellant for safety airbags of vehicles, in each individual consignment of 1 000 pieces or more
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
8708 959990
Other
Duty 0-3,5%VAT 23%
Classification of airbags CN 870895
CN code 870895 covers safety airbags with inflater systems and their parts, intended for motor vehicles under headings 8701 to 8705. Airbags are a critical passive safety element protecting occupants from injuries during collisions. This code classifies frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (head protection), knee airbags, and airbags built into seat belts. The code covers complete airbag modules with gas generators, airbag fabric and housings, as well as individual components. Importing airbags is subject to stringent requirements due to pyrotechnic charge content. Duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system.
Regulations and safety requirements for airbags
Importing airbags into the EU is subject to strict safety regulations. Airbags must comply with UNECE regulations on occupant protection in frontal (No. 94) and side (No. 95) collisions. Gas generators in airbags contain pyrotechnic materials classified as dangerous goods under ADR Class 1.4S, requiring special transport procedures, packaging, and documentation. EU Regulation 2019/2144 mandates that new vehicles be equipped with airbags at all seating positions. Importing aftermarket airbags requires particular caution – counterfeit or defective airbags pose a direct threat to life. Customs authorities inspect airbag imports for authenticity and compliance with safety standards.
Airbag market and innovations
The airbag market grows alongside tightening vehicle safety requirements. Manufacturers are developing new airbag types – centre airbags (between front seats), pedestrian protection airbags mounted under the bonnet, and external airbags protecting the vehicle side. Leading manufacturers – Autoliv, ZF-TRW, Joyson Safety Systems – dominate the OEM market. The aftermarket airbag market is limited due to safety requirements and the need for professional installation. The defective Takata gas generator issue, which caused the largest automotive recall in history, has increased regulatory oversight of airbag quality. Importing airbags from unauthorised sources poses serious risk and is subject to enhanced customs inspection.
Frequently asked questions
Is airbag import subject to ADR regulations?
Yes, gas generators in airbags contain pyrotechnic materials classified as dangerous goods under ADR Class 1.4S. Transporting airbags requires appropriate packaging, labelling, and transport documentation. The consignor must hold a dangerous goods declaration. Air transport is additionally subject to IATA DGR regulations. Storage of airbags is governed by regulations on storing pyrotechnic materials in the relevant EU member state.
Are aftermarket airbags legal in the EU?
Import and sale of aftermarket airbags are legal in the EU provided they meet safety standards and are compatible with the vehicle's safety system. Airbag installation should be performed by a qualified service centre. Counterfeit airbags pose a threat to life – they may fail to deploy in an accident or explode with excessive force. Customs and market surveillance authorities conduct operations against counterfeit airbag imports across the European Union.
How to classify a driver airbag module built into the steering wheel?
A driver airbag module, even when built into the steering wheel, is classified under CN code 870895 as a safety airbag with inflater system. The essential character of this component is the airbag's protective function, not the steering wheel function. If a complete steering wheel with built-in airbag module is imported, classification depends on which element gives the essential character – typically the steering wheel is classified under CN 870894.