Sourcing window friction stays from China
Window friction stays from China carry 0% UK duty under the window-fitting and other-hinge lines considered here, with no anti-dumping duty recorded. Consumer products must be safe to use. Specify sash weight, stack height and opening geometry before ordering. Cambridge China Bridge sources window friction stays.
Duty and classification for window friction stays
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 29 September 2026, heading 8302 covers base-metal mountings and fittings, including window fittings and hinges. Window fittings under 8302 41 50 00 and other hinges under 8302 10 00 90 both carry 0% duty for goods from China. The supplied tariff record lists no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspension or attached import control for either line.
The table repeats the window-fitting code for different stay designs; these are product variants rather than separate tariff lines. Classification depends on the article supplied. Send drawings, photographs and an explanation of its operation to your customs broker and confirm the commodity code. For the complete window assembly, see our aluminium windows guide.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top-hung window friction stays, if classified as window fittings | 8302 41 50 00 | 0% | None |
| Window friction hinges, if classified as other hinges | 8302 10 00 90 | 0% | None |
Specify the stay against the actual sash
State whether the window is top-hung or side-hung, the sash dimensions and weight, frame material, track length, stack height, fixing-hole positions and screw specification. Agree the opening angle, friction adjustment, handedness and whether the stay includes a restrictor, release mechanism or cleaning position. Approve a fitted sample in the intended frame profile.
Specify metal grade, finish, rivet construction, slider material and corrosion testing against the intended exposure. Ask for load and repeated-operation test reports matching the exact stay model and mounting arrangement. Importers of consumer products are responsible for ensuring they are safe to use and following applicable labelling requirements. Check the applicable construction-product assessment route with testing and certification support.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: 2,000 pairs of window friction stays; illustrative order, with illustrative FOB and freight values under 8302 41 50 00, invoiced at £7,000 free on board, with £600 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £7,600. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £7,600, so it is £1,520. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Fit: measure stack height, track length and fixing-hole positions against the approved drawing; fit sampled pairs to the intended frame.
Movement: open and close the fitted sash, checking friction, alignment, closing position and any restrictor or release mechanism.
Strength and finish: check rivets for play, arms for distortion, sliders for damage and surfaces for burrs or corrosion; compare material checks and test reports with the agreed specification.
Packing: check matching pairs, handedness, model identification and fitting instructions; keep arms and tracks protected from bending in transit. Arrange a shipment inspection.
What goes wrong
A stay can match the advertised length yet have the wrong stack height or pivot geometry. The sash then catches, fails to close evenly or cannot reach the intended opening position. Loose rivets and inconsistent slider friction can cause uneven movement; an unsuitable material or finish can corrode.
Approve the complete fitted pair rather than a loose sample. Record the frame profile, sash weight and mounting arrangement used for approval, and compare production samples with that assembly. For a construction product legitimately bearing CE marking, government guidance says it can continue to be supplied to the Great Britain market; check that any marking and supporting documents apply to the actual product.
Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on window friction stays from China?
The supplied tariff record shows 0% for window fittings under 8302 41 50 00 and other hinges under 8302 10 00 90, with no anti-dumping or countervailing duty recorded. Confirm which code describes your stay.
Which measurements should I send to the factory?
Send sash dimensions and weight, frame-profile drawings, track length, stack height, fixing-hole positions and opening requirements. State whether the window is top-hung or side-hung.
Can I approve a friction stay without fitting it?
Fit a sample pair to the intended frame and sash. Check closing alignment, opening geometry, friction and any release mechanism; a loose sample does not establish compatibility.
How do I check corrosion claims?
Agree the material, finish and corrosion test before ordering. Ask for reports identifying the exact model and test conditions, and compare production material and finish with the approved sample.