HS Code 45.04 – Agglomerated cork (with or without a binding substance) and articles of agglomerated cork

HS code 4504 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Agglomerated cork (with or without a binding substance) and articles of agglomerated cork. Heading 4504 specifically covers agglomerated cork and articles made from it, with or without a binding substance. This classification is distinct from natural cork (4503) as it involves the processing of cork granules or particles, often waste from natural cork production, which are then compressed and bound together using adhesives or other substances. This process allows for the creation of products with engineered properties, such as enhanced density, flexibility, or specific thermal and acoustic insulation characteristics, often in larger formats than natural cork. The scope includes a vast range of industrial and consumer products, from technical stoppers and gaskets to insulation boards and flooring underlayment. The key differentiator is the 'agglomerated' nature. Correct classification is crucial for trade compliance because agglomerated cork products may have different duty rates, origin rules, and technical specifications compared to natural cork. This heading plays a significant role in the circular economy by utilizing cork by-products. As part of Chapter 45, it clarifies the distinction between processed cork forms, ensuring accurate customs declarations and adherence to international trade regulations.

Agglomerated cork stoppers, agglomerated cork insulation boards, agglomerated cork flooring underlayment, cork-rubber gaskets, agglomerated cork sheets (rolls), agglomerated cork wall panels, agglomerated cork bulletin board material, agglomerated cork pipe insulation, agglomerated cork shoe components, agglomerated cork expansion joints, agglomerated cork soundproofing panels, agglomerated cork anti-vibration pads, technical agglomerated cork stoppers, agglomerated cork granules (with binder), composite cork materials, agglomerated cork discs, agglomerated cork blocks, agglomerated cork seals, agglomerated cork-based composite flooring, agglomerated cork bottle liners, agglomerated cork fishing rod grips, agglomerated cork yoga blocks, agglomerated cork sound diffusers, agglomerated cork trivets.

A frequent misclassification occurs when traders confuse agglomerated cork articles (4504) with natural cork articles (4503), leading to incorrect duty applications. While both are cork, the processing difference is key: 4504 involves binding cork particles, whereas 4503 is solid natural cork. Another error is classifying composite materials containing agglomerated cork under other chapters, such as plastics (39) or rubber (40), if the cork component is not clearly predominant or if the binding substance is mistaken for the primary material. Careful review of manufacturing processes and material composition is essential to avoid these errors, as differing duty rates and regulatory requirements apply.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 4504 in UN Comtrade data were Portugal ($693M, 58% of world exports), Spain ($205M) and France ($77M). World exports came to about $1.2B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 4504 in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($189M, 17% of world imports), France ($166M) and the United States ($116M). World imports came to about $1.1B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 4504 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 45 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (45) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (04) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.