Product classification
HS code for Split pins: 7318.24
Iron or steel, non-threaded cotters and cotter-pins.
Classification of split pins under HS 7318.24
The classification of split pins under HS code 7318.24 is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically focusing on the material composition and the functional utility of the item as a fastener. Chapter 73 of the nomenclature is dedicated to articles of iron or steel. Within this chapter, heading 7318 covers a broad range of fasteners, including screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws, screw hooks, rivets, cotters, cotter-pins, and washers. Subheading 7318.24 is the specific international designation for non-threaded cotters and cotter-pins. Split pins are mechanical fasteners typically consisting of a half-round wire folded in half to form a head at one end, with two tines that can be bent to secure the pin in place. They are essential components in machinery and automotive applications, often used to prevent a nut from vibrating loose or to keep a shaft in position. Because these items do not possess threads, they are excluded from the subheadings for screws and bolts and are instead categorized under the non-threaded section. The General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) require that articles be classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. In the case of split pins, Note 2 to Section XV defines \"parts of general use\" to include articles of heading 7318. This means that even if a split pin is designed for a specific machine, it remains classified here as a part of general use rather than as a part of the machine itself.
- Covers
- Standard steel split pins
- Stainless steel cotter pins
- Extended prong split pins
- Humped cotter pins
- R-clips (when classified as cotter-type fasteners)
- Hairpin cotters
- Clinch pins for industrial machinery
- Also under 7318.24
- Fastenal cotter pins
- Würth R-clips
- John Deere clevis pins (using cotters)
- Kubota linch pins
Codes often confused with 7318.24
Common mistake. Split pins are frequently misclassified under HS code 7318.23, which is reserved for rivets. While both are non-threaded fasteners, a rivet is intended to be permanently deformed to join two surfaces, whereas a split pin is designed to be inserted through a hole and secured by bending the tines. Another common error is using 7318.15, which covers threaded bolts and screws; however, split pins lack any threading. Additionally, if the pin is made of copper or aluminum, it must be classified under Chapter 74 or 76 respectively, rather than 7318.
Top exporters and importers of HS 731824 (the code used for split pins), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 731824 (the code used for split pins) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 31% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 18% 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 731824, not only split pins.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $339M 31% of world exports
- 2 United States $224M 20% of world exports
- 3 Germany $91M 8.3% of world exports
World total: $1.1B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $216M 18% of world imports
- 2 Mexico $118M 9.8% of world imports
- 3 Thailand $84M 7.0% of world imports
World total: $1.2B 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 code for split pins
Brazil classifies split pins under NCM 7318.24.00: HS 7318.24 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.
Questions about split pins
What is the HS code for Split pins?
The HS code for Split pins is 731824 (Iron or steel; non-threaded cotters and cotter-pins). The standard international HS code for split pins made of iron or steel is 7318.24.
How do I classify Split pins for customs?
Split pins is classified under HS code 731824 — Iron or steel; non-threaded cotters and cotter-pins. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include pins made of stainless steel?
Yes, HS code 7318.24 includes all non-threaded cotters and cotter-pins made of ferrous metals, including stainless steel and alloy steel.
Which countries are the top exporters of split pins (HS 731824)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 731824 (the code used for split pins) in UN Comtrade data were China ($339M, 31% of world exports), the United States ($224M) and Germany ($91M). World exports came to about $1.1B, 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 split pins (HS 731824)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 731824 (the code used for split pins) in UN Comtrade data were China ($216M, 18% of world imports), Mexico ($118M) and Thailand ($84M). World imports came to about $1.2B, 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 Split pins the same in all countries?
The base HS code 731824 for Split pins 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 split pins in Brazil?
In Brazil, split pins (HS 731824) is classified under NCM 7318.24.00.