8708 10Select TARIC subcode
Bumpers and parts thereof
Available TARIC subcodes: 4
8708 101010
Plastic cover for filling the space between the fog lights and the bumper whether or not with a chrome strip for use in the manufacture of goods of Chapter 87
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 101090
Other
Duty 0-3%VAT 23%
8708 109010
Plastic cover for filling the space between the fog lights and the bumper whether or not with a chrome strip for use in the manufacture of goods of Chapter 87
Duty 0-4,5%VAT 23%
8708 109090
Other
Duty 0-4,5%VAT 23%
Classification of automotive bumpers CN 870810
CN code 870810 covers bumpers and their parts intended for motor vehicles under headings 8701 to 8705. Bumpers are protective elements mounted at the front and rear of the vehicle, designed to absorb impact energy at low speeds. This code classifies metal, plastic, and composite bumpers, as well as bumper beams, energy absorbers, brackets, and other structural bumper components. Modern bumpers integrate parking assist sensors, reversing cameras, and adaptive cruise control radars. Importing bumpers follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system. Bumpers as safety components must comply with UNECE Regulation No. 42 on pedestrian protection and EU Regulation 2019/2144 on general vehicle safety requirements applicable from 2024 onwards for new vehicle types.
Regulatory requirements for imported bumpers
Importing bumpers into the EU requires compliance with safety and environmental standards. Bumpers intended as aftermarket replacement parts must carry E-mark approval confirming compliance with UNECE regulations if they constitute safety components. From 2026, stricter pedestrian protection requirements apply – bumpers must minimize injuries in pedestrian collisions through appropriate profile shaping and use of energy-absorbing materials. Plastic bumpers are subject to end-of-life vehicle recycling regulations under Directive 2000/53/EC. The customs value of a bumper includes the purchase price, transport, and insurance to the EU border. Importers may benefit from preferential duty rates under EU trade agreements, provided the origin of goods is documented with an appropriate certificate. OEM and aftermarket bumpers are subject to the same duty rates under identical tariff classification.
Automotive bumper market – trends and innovations
The automotive bumper market is developing under the influence of growing safety and vehicle aesthetics requirements. Manufacturers use increasingly advanced materials – polypropylene composites, thermoplastic olefins, and glass fibre-reinforced materials – combining lightness with high impact resistance. Electric vehicle bumpers require special design considerations due to the absence of a traditional radiator grille and the need to integrate autonomous driving sensors. The European aftermarket bumper market is growing, driven by accident repair costs and demand for vehicle personalisation. Asian bumper imports represent a significant share of the European replacement parts market. OEM manufacturers offer bumpers with built-in radar and lidar systems, increasing their value and repair complexity. The trend towards modular bumper design allows easier replacement of damaged sections without replacing the entire component.
Frequently asked questions
Do aftermarket bumpers require E-mark approval?
Bumpers as such do not always require separate E-mark approval. However, if a bumper serves a safety function – for example, integrating impact energy absorbers or pedestrian protection elements – it must comply with relevant UNECE regulations. In practice, aftermarket bumpers should conform to the vehicle manufacturer's original specification. Non-compliance may result in issues during periodic vehicle inspection. It is advisable to verify requirements in the destination country before importing aftermarket bumper components.
How to classify a bumper with integrated parking sensors?
A bumper with integrated parking sensors is classified under CN code 870810, as the essential character of the goods is the bumper itself. The sensors constitute an auxiliary element mounted within the bumper housing. If only parking sensors without the bumper are imported, they are classified separately, typically as electrical vehicle parts. The key to classification is determining the main function of the imported goods. In cases of doubt, obtaining a Binding Tariff Information ruling is recommended.
What materials are used in modern automotive bumpers?
Contemporary automotive bumpers are primarily made from plastics – polypropylene (PP), thermoplastic olefins (TPO), and polyurethane (PU). The internal bumper beam is usually steel or aluminium, while energy absorbers are made from polyurethane or polystyrene foam. Premium vehicles use carbon fibre-reinforced composites. The material only affects tariff classification at the detailed TARIC code level. Regardless of material, a motor vehicle bumper is classified under CN code 870810 at the six-digit Combined Nomenclature level.