Product classification
HS code for Metal frames (with clasps): 8308.90
Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle clasps, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing & accessories, footwear, jewellery, wrist-watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods, saddlery etc, including parts.
Classification of metal frames (with clasps) under HS 8308.90
HS code 8308.90 is utilized for the classification of metal frames equipped with clasps, which are typically used as components for various consumer goods. This classification falls under Chapter 83, which encompasses miscellaneous articles of base metal. Heading 8308 specifically covers clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets, and similar articles, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing, footwear, awnings, handbags, travel goods, or other made-up articles. The inclusion of a clasp or locking mechanism is the defining feature that separates these items from simple metal frames. These components are considered parts or accessories in the manufacturing process of the final product. The classification remains consistent whether the frame is made of steel, brass, or other base metals, as long as it is intended for the specified uses in the heading description. The Harmonized System prioritizes the function of these items as fasteners or structural closures for soft goods. It is important to note that these frames are usually sold as individual components to manufacturers or repair shops rather than as finished consumer products.
- Covers
- Metal handbag frames with integrated snap clasps
- Purse frames with ball-lock closures
- Clasp-equipped frames for evening clutch bags
- Metal frames for doctor-style bags
- Clasp frames for spectacle cases made of textile or leather
- Also under 8308.90
- YKK buckles
- ITW Nexus buckles
- Duraflex buckles
- Cobra buckles
- Fidlock clasps
Codes often confused with 8308.90
Common mistake. These items are often misclassified under HS code 7326.90, which is a general category for other articles of iron or steel. However, because heading 8308 specifically describes frames with clasps for bags and clothing, it takes precedence over the general heading. Another common mistake is classifying them under HS code 8301, which covers padlocks and locks; while a clasp is a closure, it does not constitute a key-operated or combination lock mechanism. Additionally, if the frame is already attached to a bag, the entire item must be classified under HS code 4202.
Top exporters and importers of HS 830890 (the code used for metal frames (with clasps)), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 830890 (the code used for metal frames (with clasps)) in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was France, with 15% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 830890, not only metal frames (with clasps).
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Italy $473M 19% of world exports
- 2 China $260M 10% of world exports
- 3 Romania $256M 10% of world exports
World total: $2.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 France $408M 15% of world imports
- 2 Italy $202M 7.6% of world imports
- 3 Germany $175M 6.6% of world imports
World total: $2.7B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for metal frames (with clasps)
Brazil splits HS 8308.90 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8308.90.10Base metal buckles
- 8308.90.20Base metal beads and spangles
- 8308.90.90Clasps, buckle-clasps and other similar items
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about metal frames (with clasps)
What is the HS code for Metal frames (with clasps)?
The HS code for Metal frames (with clasps) is 830890 (Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle clasps; of base metal, of a kind used for clothing & accessories, footwear, jewellery, wrist-watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods, saddlery etc, including parts). The correct HS code for metal frames with clasps used for bags or accessories is 8308.90.
How do I classify Metal frames (with clasps) for customs?
Metal frames (with clasps) is classified under HS code 830890 — Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle clasps; of base metal, of a kind used for clothing & accessories, footwear, jewellery, wrist-watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods, saddlery etc, including parts. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are these frames classified differently if they are made of brass?
No, HS code 8308.90 covers frames made of any base metal, including steel, brass, and aluminum.
Which countries are the top exporters of metal frames (with clasps) (HS 830890)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 830890 (the code used for metal frames (with clasps)) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($473M, 19% of world exports), China ($260M) and Romania ($256M). World exports came to about $2.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of metal frames (with clasps) (HS 830890)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 830890 (the code used for metal frames (with clasps)) in UN Comtrade data were France ($408M, 15% of world imports), Italy ($202M) and Germany ($175M). World imports came to about $2.7B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Metal frames (with clasps) the same in all countries?
The base HS code 830890 for Metal frames (with clasps) is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for metal frames (with clasps) in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 830890 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for metal frames (with clasps) depends on the product's details: 8308.90.10 (Base metal buckles), 8308.90.20 (Base metal beads and spangles), 8308.90.90 (Clasps, buckle-clasps and other similar items).