Fasteners HSN Code

Understanding the Fastener HSN Code: A Crucial Guide for Businesses

Fasteners, in their myriad forms, are the unsung heroes of countless industries. From the tiny screws holding together electronic devices to the robust bolts securing massive structures, these essential components ensure stability and functionality. For businesses dealing with fasteners in India, correctly identifying their Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code and understanding the applicable Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates is fundamental for compliance and smooth trade.

The term “fasteners” is broad, encompassing a wide array of items. The HSN system categorizes them based on their material, function, and specific design. The data provided highlights two primary chapters where fasteners are classified:

• Chapter 73: “Articles of iron or steel.” This is the most common chapter for industrial and construction fasteners. It includes:
  • HSN 7318: “Screws, bolts, nuts, coach-screws, screw hooks, rivets, cotters, cotter-pins, washers (including spring washers) and similar articles, of iron or steel.” This heading covers a vast range of metal fasteners. The data shows specific examples like “Belt Fasteners For Machinery Belts” under 73269020.
  • The GST rate for most fasteners under Chapter 73, including bolts, nuts, screws, and washers, is consistently 18%. This rate has been in effect since July 1, 2017.
• Chapter 96: “Miscellaneous manufactured articles.” This chapter is relevant for fasteners that are typically associated with apparel, stationery, or specific consumer goods. It includes:
  • HSN 9606: “Buttons, Press-Fasteners, Snap-Fasteners And Press-Studs, Button Moulds And Other Parts Of These Articles; Button Blanks.” This covers items like press-fasteners, snap-fasteners, and various types of buttons.
    • The GST rates here vary:
      • “Press-Fasteners, Snap-Fasteners And Press-Studs And Parts Thereof” (960610, 96061010, 96061020) are often exempt (0% GST).
      • Buttons made of base metals (96062200) or plastics (96062100) are typically subject to 18% GST.
      • Buttons of natural materials like coconut shell or wood (96062910) and other unspecified buttons (96062990) are exempt (0% GST).
      • Button moulds and blanks (960630, 96063010, 96063090) can also be exempt (0% GST).
  • HSN 9607: “Slide Fasteners And Parts Thereof.” This specifically refers to zippers and their components.
    • Slide fasteners (96071) and their parts (96072000) generally attract a 12% GST rate. This rate was revised to 12% on October 1, 2019, from a previous 27/07/2018 effective date.

The key takeaway is that the HSN code and GST rate for fasteners are not uniform. They critically depend on the material composition (e.g., iron/steel vs. plastic/textile-related) and the type of fastener (e.g., a structural bolt vs. a garment button). Businesses must carefully classify their specific fastener products to ensure accurate GST compliance.