Skip to main content

Classification of automotive brakes CN 870830

CN code 870830 covers brakes, servo-brakes, and their parts intended for motor vehicles under headings 8701 to 8705. This code encompasses brake discs, brake drums, brake pads, brake shoes, brake callipers, master cylinders, brake hoses, brake boosters (servos), and parking brakes. Modern braking systems also include electronic assistance systems – ABS, ESP, and EBD – although the electronic modules themselves may be classified separately. Brakes constitute a critical vehicle safety element and are subject to stringent regulatory requirements. Duty rates must be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system. Brake parts must comply with UNECE Regulation No. 13 (commercial vehicle brakes) or No. 13-H (passenger car brakes) requirements.

Safety requirements and approval of brake parts

Importing brake components into the EU requires compliance with strict safety standards. Aftermarket brake pads and linings must hold type approval in accordance with UNECE Regulation No. 90, confirming compliance with braking effectiveness, fade resistance, and durability requirements. E-mark designation is mandatory for aftermarket brake pads following the entry into force of EU Regulation 2019/2144. Brake discs and drums must meet material strength and thermal crack resistance standards. Brake hoses are subject to UNECE Regulation No. 110. Importing non-approved brake components poses a road safety risk and is subject to market surveillance authority inspection. Importers should hold documentation confirming type approval and laboratory test results for all safety-critical brake components.

Brake parts market – manufacturers and trends

The European brake parts market is one of the largest segments of the automotive aftermarket. Leading manufacturers – Brembo, TRW, Bosch, Ferodo – offer comprehensive product ranges for both OEM and aftermarket channels. Asian imports of brake pads and discs represent a significant share of the replacement market, with quality verification and approval authenticity being critical. The market is undergoing transformation driven by vehicle electrification – electric vehicles use regenerative braking, reducing wear on traditional brake components. Simultaneously, brake dust emission requirements are increasing – the Euro 7 standard introduces particulate matter emission limits from brakes. Manufacturers are developing low-dust brake pads and discs with ceramic and steel coatings that reduce emissions. These changes affect the classification and value of imported brake components.

Frequently asked questions

Must aftermarket brake pads carry E-mark approval?
Yes, aftermarket brake pads and linings must hold type approval in accordance with UNECE Regulation No. 90. The E-mark designation on the packaging and pad itself is mandatory. The approval confirms that the product has passed braking effectiveness, fade resistance, and durability testing. Importing brake pads without valid approval is non-compliant with EU regulations and may result in goods seizure at the customs border and imposition of sanctions by market surveillance authorities.
How does the Euro 7 standard affect the brake parts market?
The Euro 7 standard introduces particulate matter emission limits generated by the braking system. This means new vehicles will be equipped with low-dust brake pads and discs with emission-reducing coatings. New types of brake pads meeting these requirements will appear on the aftermarket. Import of traditional brake pads will remain permitted for older-generation vehicles, but demand will gradually decline as the vehicle fleet is renewed with newer models compliant with the standard.
Are brakes for electric vehicles classified under CN 870830?
Yes, mechanical brakes for electric vehicles are classified under CN code 870830. This includes brake discs, pads, callipers, and other elements of the mechanical braking system. The regenerative braking system, which uses the electric motor as a generator, is classified separately as part of the drivetrain. Electric vehicles still require conventional mechanical brakes as a backup system and for braking at low speeds where regenerative braking is less effective.