HS Code Subheading

Cases and containers; handbags (whether or not with shoulder strap and including those without handle), with outer surface of leather or of composition leather

4202.21 Subheading
Section VIII — Raw hides and skins, leather, furskins and articles thereof; saddlery and harness; travel goods, handbags and similar containers; articles of animal gut (other than silk-worm gut)

About HS Code 420221

This HS code specifically covers handbags, including those with or without shoulder straps, where the outer surface is made of leather or composition leather. This represents a significant segment of the global fashion and luxury goods market, driven by brand prestige, design trends, and consumer demand for high-quality accessories. Major importers are typically countries with high purchasing power and sophisticated retail infrastructures, such as the USA, Japan, and European nations. Exporters are often countries renowned for their leather industries and luxury brand manufacturing, notably Italy, France, and Spain. Key factors in this trade include the authenticity and quality of the leather, artisanal craftsmanship, brand reputation, and the ability to adapt to rapidly evolving fashion cycles.

Products Under This Code

Leather shoulder bags, leather tote bags, leather clutch bags, leather satchels, leather cross-body bags, leather hobos, leather doctor bags

Real World Examples

Chanel Classic Flap Bag, Hermès Birkin, Louis Vuitton Speedy, Gucci Marmont, Prada Galleria

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with 420231 (leather pocket/handbag articles) if the item is very small, or 420211 (leather suitcases) if it's a larger travel-oriented bag that might be carried like a handbag.

Products Classified Under 4202.21

Trade Overview

Italy, France, and Spain are leading exporters due to their luxury fashion industries, with the USA, China, and Japan being top importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 420221?

HS code 420221 covers: Cases and containers; handbags (whether or not with shoulder strap and including those without handle), with outer surface of leather or of composition leather. This HS code specifically covers handbags, including those with or without shoulder straps, where the outer surface is made of leather or composition leather. This represents a significant segment of the global fashion and luxury goods market, driven by brand prestige, design trends, and consumer demand for high-quality accessories. Major importers are typically countries with high purchasing power and sophisticated retail infrastructures, such as the USA, Japan, and European nations. Exporters are often countries renowned for their leather industries and luxury brand manufacturing, notably Italy, France, and Spain. Key factors in this trade include the authenticity and quality of the leather, artisanal craftsmanship, brand reputation, and the ability to adapt to rapidly evolving fashion cycles.

What products fall under HS code 420221?

Leather shoulder bags, leather tote bags, leather clutch bags, leather satchels, leather cross-body bags, leather hobos, leather doctor bags

What are common misclassifications for HS code 420221?

Can be confused with 420231 (leather pocket/handbag articles) if the item is very small, or 420211 (leather suitcases) if it's a larger travel-oriented bag that might be carried like a handbag.

How is HS code 420221 structured?

HS code 420221 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (42) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.