About HS Code 5607
Heading 5607 covers a broad range of textile products: 'twine, cordage, ropes and cables, whether or not plaited or braided; whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics.' This heading is critical for classifying sturdy, multi-strand textile products designed for strength and durability rather than fine textile applications. The key differentiator is their construction from textile fibers into these specific forms, regardless of whether they are twisted, plaited, or braided. The 'whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics' clause is vital, indicating that surface treatments for protection or enhanced properties do not alter their classification, as long as the textile material remains the primary component. This ensures that items like marine ropes with protective coatings or industrial cords with plastic sheaths are correctly placed. This classification is significant for trade compliance because it segregates these industrial and utility textile articles from general textile yarns (Chapters 50-55) and from articles made from these ropes and twines (like nets in 5608 or other articles in 5609), as well as from similar products made entirely of plastic (Chapter 39) or metal (Chapter 73). Proper classification prevents misapplication of tariffs and ensures regulatory adherence for safety standards in various applications. Within Section XI, Chapter 56 acts as a bridge, dealing with intermediate and specialized textile products, and 5607 specifically addresses the heavier-duty, structural textile forms, serving industries from agriculture and fishing to maritime and construction. Historically, these products have been essential tools for human activity, evolving with material science but retaining their core function.
Products Under This Code
Nylon mooring ropes, polypropylene baler twine, sisal agricultural cordage, polyester climbing ropes, hemp industrial cables, cotton packaging twine, plaited aramid fiber cords, braided polyethylene ropes, rubber-coated polyester marine ropes, PVC-sheathed synthetic fiber cables, natural fiber sash cords, synthetic fiber tow ropes, impregnated jute twine, plaited nylon fishing lines (heavy duty), braided polypropylene dock lines, coated polyester lifting slings (material only), synthetic fiber guy ropes, waxed cotton cordage, rubber-covered synthetic cables for winches, twisted Manila ropes, tarred hemp cordage, braided nylon parachute cords, polypropylene barrier ropes, sisal garden twine.
Real World Examples
A fishing fleet operator in Norway imports large quantities of braided nylon fishing ropes and nets from South Korea for their trawlers, often shipped in bulk containers via sea freight. An agricultural supplier in Brazil imports polypropylene baler twine from China to meet the demands of local farmers during harvest season, typically using ocean carriers for cost-effectiveness. A construction company in Germany sources specialized aramid fiber cables, coated with rubber for enhanced durability, from a manufacturer in the United States for heavy-duty lifting applications, often delivered via express air freight due to project timelines.
Common Misclassification
One common misclassification involves distinguishing textile ropes from those made entirely of plastic. If a rope is composed solely of monofilaments of plastic (e.g., polypropylene), it should be classified under Chapter 39 (e.g., 3926 for other articles of plastic), not 5607. Another mistake is confusing the raw twine, cordage, or rope with 'articles' made from them. For instance, a ready-to-use fishing net (5608) or a finished rope ladder (5609) would not fall under 5607, which covers the bulk material. Furthermore, metal wire ropes (7312) are distinctly different, though visually similar, leading to errors if material composition isn't carefully checked. The key is the textile origin and the bulk, unworked form.
Subheadings 6
Industry
This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.
Trade Overview
China, India, and various Southeast Asian countries are major global manufacturers and exporters of twine, cordage, and ropes, benefiting from robust textile industries and lower production costs. Major importers include countries with significant agricultural, fishing, maritime, and construction sectors, such as the United States, EU member states, Japan, and Australia. Trade agreements like the ASEAN Free Trade Area or bilateral agreements between major trading partners can significantly impact tariffs, offering preferential rates for goods originating within these blocs. Compliance with specific safety standards for industrial and marine applications is also a critical trade consideration in many importing nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 5607?
HS code 5607 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Twine, cordage, ropes and cables, whether or not plaited or braided; whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics. Heading 5607 covers a broad range of textile products: 'twine, cordage, ropes and cables, whether or not plaited or braided; whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics.' This heading is critical for classifying sturdy, multi-strand textile products designed for strength and durability rather than fine textile applications. The key differentiator is their construction from textile fibers into these specific forms, regardless of whether they are twisted, plaited, or braided. The 'whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics' clause is vital, indicating that surface treatments for protection or enhanced properties do not alter their classification, as long as the textile material remains the primary component. This ensures that items like marine ropes with protective coatings or industrial cords with plastic sheaths are correctly placed. This classification is significant for trade compliance because it segregates these industrial and utility textile articles from general textile yarns (Chapters 50-55) and from articles made from these ropes and twines (like nets in 5608 or other articles in 5609), as well as from similar products made entirely of plastic (Chapter 39) or metal (Chapter 73). Proper classification prevents misapplication of tariffs and ensures regulatory adherence for safety standards in various applications. Within Section XI, Chapter 56 acts as a bridge, dealing with intermediate and specialized textile products, and 5607 specifically addresses the heavier-duty, structural textile forms, serving industries from agriculture and fishing to maritime and construction. Historically, these products have been essential tools for human activity, evolving with material science but retaining their core function.
What products fall under HS code 5607?
Nylon mooring ropes, polypropylene baler twine, sisal agricultural cordage, polyester climbing ropes, hemp industrial cables, cotton packaging twine, plaited aramid fiber cords, braided polyethylene ropes, rubber-coated polyester marine ropes, PVC-sheathed synthetic fiber cables, natural fiber sash cords, synthetic fiber tow ropes, impregnated jute twine, plaited nylon fishing lines (heavy duty), braided polypropylene dock lines, coated polyester lifting slings (material only), synthetic fiber guy ropes, waxed cotton cordage, rubber-covered synthetic cables for winches, twisted Manila ropes, tarred hemp cordage, braided nylon parachute cords, polypropylene barrier ropes, sisal garden twine.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 5607?
One common misclassification involves distinguishing textile ropes from those made entirely of plastic. If a rope is composed solely of monofilaments of plastic (e.g., polypropylene), it should be classified under Chapter 39 (e.g., 3926 for other articles of plastic), not 5607. Another mistake is confusing the raw twine, cordage, or rope with 'articles' made from them. For instance, a ready-to-use fishing net (5608) or a finished rope ladder (5609) would not fall under 5607, which covers the bulk material. Furthermore, metal wire ropes (7312) are distinctly different, though visually similar, leading to errors if material composition isn't carefully checked. The key is the textile origin and the bulk, unworked form.
Which countries trade the most under HS code 5607?
China, India, and various Southeast Asian countries are major global manufacturers and exporters of twine, cordage, and ropes, benefiting from robust textile industries and lower production costs. Major importers include countries with significant agricultural, fishing, maritime, and construction sectors, such as the United States, EU member states, Japan, and Australia. Trade agreements like the ASEAN Free Trade Area or bilateral agreements between major trading partners can significantly impact tariffs, offering preferential rates for goods originating within these blocs. Compliance with specific safety standards for industrial and marine applications is also a critical trade consideration in many importing nations.
How is HS code 5607 structured?
HS code 5607 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 56 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (56) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (07) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.