Find HS Code and trade information for bike lock cable

Bike Lock Cable

A bike lock cable is a security device used to deter the theft of bicycles. It typically consists of a flexible, woven steel cable encased in a protective coating, paired with a locking mechanism.

Material:

• Cable: High-strength steel is the primary material, often alloyed for increased cut resistance. Common alloys include hardened steel and manganese steel. Cable diameter varies, with thicker cables offering greater security.
• Coating: Typically PVC, braided nylon, or rubber. The coating protects the bike frame from scratches and provides some weather resistance.
• Locking Mechanism: Common types include:
  • Keyed Locks: Traditional locks requiring a physical key to operate.
  • Combination Locks: Utilize a numerical code for unlocking.
  • Integrated Locks: The lock mechanism is built directly into the cable, often using a rotating head.

Purpose:

The primary purpose is to physically restrain a bicycle, making it more difficult and time-consuming for a thief to steal. They are a deterrent, and their effectiveness depends on the cable's construction and the thief's tools and determination.

Function:

A bike lock cable functions by looping the cable through the bicycle frame (typically the top tube, seat tube, and rear wheel) and a fixed object (bike rack, pole, etc.). The locking mechanism secures the cable ends, preventing separation and thus theft.

Usage Scenarios:

• Short-Term Parking: Ideal for quick stops and moderate-risk areas.
• Urban Environments: Commonly used in cities where bicycles are frequently left unattended.
• Complementary Security: Often used in conjunction with other lock types (U-locks, chain locks) for increased protection.
• Indoor Storage: Can be used to secure bicycles in garages, sheds, or apartments.

Common Types:

• Braided Steel Cables: Offer a good balance of flexibility and cut resistance. The braiding makes cutting more difficult.
• Coated Cables: Provide frame protection and some weather resistance.
• Self-Coiling Cables: Convenient for storage and portability, as they automatically recoil into a compact size.
• Thick Gauge Cables: Offer higher security due to their increased resistance to cutting tools.
• Keyed vs. Combination: Choice depends on user preference and convenience. Keyed locks are generally more secure, while combination locks eliminate the risk of losing a key.
• Integrated Cable Locks: Convenient all-in-one design, but may offer less security than separate lock and cable combinations.

Bike lock cables fall under several potential classifications based on their construction and materials. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 8301106020: Padlocks and locks (key, combination or electrically operated), of base metal; clasps and frames with clasps, incorporating locks, of base metal; keys and parts of any of the foregoing articles, of base metal: Padlocks: Of cylinder or pin tumbler construction: Not over 3.8 cm in width Lock bodies containing hardened steel components with attached (or insertable) flexible cable composed of wire strands and hardened steel beads. This code specifically covers padlocks with attached flexible steel cables, suitable for bike locks. (Chapter 83: Miscellaneous manufactured articles; base metal luminaires; signs, nameplates and labels; parts thereof; Chapter 83.01: Padlocks and locks; Chapter 83.01.10: Padlocks: Of cylinder or pin tumbler construction).
• 7312100500: Stranded wire, ropes, cables, plaited bands, slings and the like, of iron or steel, not electrically insulated: Stranded wire, ropes and cables: Stranded wire: Of stainless steel: Fitted with fittings or made up into articles. This code applies to stainless steel cables, potentially with fittings, used in bike lock construction. (Chapter 73: Iron or steel articles; Chapter 73.12: Stranded wire, ropes, cables, plaited bands, slings and the like, not electrically insulated; Chapter 73.12.10: Stranded wire, ropes and cables: Stranded wire: Of stainless steel).
• 7326200010: Other articles of iron or steel: Articles of iron or steel wire Belts and belting. This code could apply if the cable is considered a type of belting or article of iron or steel wire. (Chapter 73: Iron or steel articles; Chapter 73.26: Other articles of iron or steel; Chapter 73.26.20: Articles of iron or steel wire).

Important Considerations:

Regarding HS code 7312100500, please note the tariff includes a 25.0%加征关税, and a 30.0%加征关税 for steel, aluminum products after 2025.4.2.