Find HS Code and trade information for cat flap

Cat Flap

A cat flap, also known as a pet door, is a small portal, typically installed in doors or walls, allowing a cat (or other small pet) to enter and exit a building freely while restricting access to larger animals or intruders.

Material

Cat flaps are constructed from a variety of materials, each offering different levels of durability, insulation, and security:

• Plastic: The most common and affordable option. Suitable for basic needs, but less durable and secure.
• Metal: Offers increased durability and resistance to damage. Often used in conjunction with plastic components. Aluminum is a common choice.
• Magnetic: Incorporates magnets to create a tighter seal, providing better insulation and weatherproofing.
• Brush: Features flexible brush strips around the flap to create a seal and reduce drafts.
• Glass/Acrylic: Used in more premium models, offering visibility and a modern aesthetic.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a cat flap is to provide independent access for a pet, eliminating the need for human intervention to let them in or out. This offers convenience for both the pet and the owner.

Function

Cat flaps operate using different mechanisms:

• Simple Flap: A basic hinged flap that swings open when pushed.
• Magnetic: Uses a magnetic collar tag worn by the pet to activate the opening mechanism.
• Infrared/Radio Frequency (RF) ID: Uses a collar tag with an electronic chip that communicates with a sensor in the flap.
• Microchip: Reads the pet's existing microchip for access.
• Timer/Sensor: Operates based on a pre-set timer or sensors detecting the pet's presence.

Usage Scenarios

• Indoor/Outdoor Access: Allowing cats to roam freely between indoors and a secure outdoor space (garden, patio).
• Multi-Pet Households: Providing selective access, preventing unwanted animals from entering.
• Homes with Limited Accessibility: Assisting owners who have difficulty physically opening doors for their pets.
• Temperature Control: Reducing heat loss or gain by providing a sealed entry point.

Common Types

• Basic Cat Flaps: Simple hinged flaps, often made of plastic.
• Magnetic Cat Flaps: Offer better sealing and security.
• Electronic Cat Flaps: Provide selective access based on collar tags.
• Dual-Scanning Cat Flaps: Allow multiple pets with different collar tags to be recognized.
• Energy-Efficient Cat Flaps: Designed with multiple layers and seals to minimize heat loss.
• Large/Extra-Large Cat Flaps: Accommodate larger breeds or multiple pets.
• Wall-Mounted Cat Flaps: Installed directly into walls, offering a more permanent solution.

Based on the provided reference material, determining the precise HS code for a “cat flap” is challenging as it is not explicitly listed. However, we can explore potential classifications based on its components and function. Considering a cat flap typically involves metal fittings and may incorporate locking mechanisms, the following HS codes are potentially relevant:

• 8302416045: Base metal mountings, fittings and similar articles suitable for furniture, doors, staircases, windows, blinds, coachwork, saddlery, trunks, chests, caskets or the like; base metal hat racks, hat-pegs, brackets and similar fixtures; castors with mountings of base metal; automatic door closers of base metal; and base metal parts thereof: Other mountings, fittings and similar articles, and parts thereof: Suitable for buildings: Other: Of iron or steel, of aluminum or of zinc Suitable for interior and exterior doors (except garage, overhead or sliding doors): Other. This code covers mountings and fittings for doors, which a cat flap utilizes. The description specifies suitability for interior and exterior doors.

  • Chapter 83: Metal working products, not elsewhere specified or included.
  • Heading 8302: Base metal mountings, fittings and similar articles.
  • Subheading 8302416045: Specifically for mountings and fittings suitable for buildings, made of iron, steel, aluminum, or zinc, for interior and exterior doors.

• 8302496055: Base metal mountings, fittings and similar articles suitable for furniture, doors, staircases, windows, blinds, coachwork, saddlery, trunks, chests, caskets or the like; base metal hat racks, hat-pegs, brackets and similar fixtures; castors with mountings of base metal; automatic door closers of base metal; and base metal parts thereof: Other mountings, fittings and similar articles, and parts thereof: Other: Other: Of iron or steel, of aluminum or of zinc Other: For aircraft, vessels and other vehicles (except motor vehicles) of section XVII. This code covers other mountings and fittings, potentially applicable if the cat flap is used in a non-standard building context.

  • Chapter 83: Metal working products, not elsewhere specified or included.
  • Heading 8302: Base metal mountings, fittings and similar articles.
  • Subheading 8302496055: Specifically for other mountings and fittings made of iron, steel, aluminum, or zinc, for use in aircraft, vessels, and other vehicles.

• 8301406060: 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: Other locks: Other. If the cat flap incorporates a locking mechanism, this code may be relevant.

  • Chapter 83: Metal working products, not elsewhere specified or included.
  • Heading 8301: Padlocks and locks.
  • Subheading 8301406060: Specifically for other locks made of base metal.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'cat flap' are limited, with only the following 3 found.

It is important to note that the final HS code determination depends on the specific materials used and the functionality of the cat flap. If the cat flap includes a locking mechanism, HS code 8301406060 should be considered. If it is simply a door fitting, HS code 8302416045 or 8302496055 may be more appropriate.