HS Code for Bovine wet-blue

Bovine wet-blue is classified under HS code 4104.19. This code covers bovine or equine hides that have been tanned but are still in the wet state. "Wet-blue" specifically refers to hides tanned with chromium salts, which imparts a characteristic pale blue color and leaves the hide moist. This subheading excludes full grains and grain splits, focusing on other types of tanned hides in the wet state. The classification is based on the transition from a raw hide (Chapter 4101) to a tanned product (Chapter 4104) while remaining in a non-dried condition. It is a critical stage in leather production, allowing for stable transport between tanneries and finishing facilities. The moisture content is the defining factor for this code, as it distinguishes the product from "crust" leather which is dry. The exclusion of full grains and grain splits means this code typically applies to the middle layers of a split hide or hides that have had the grain surface removed.

Products Included

• Chrome-tanned wet bovine hides
• Wet-blue bovine splits
• Wet-white (aldehyde-tanned) bovine hides
• Wet-state tanned buffalo hides
• Pre-tanned bovine skins in the wet state

Common Misclassification

Bovine wet-blue is often misclassified under 4104.11, which is reserved for full grain unsplit hides in the wet state. Another common error is 4104.49, which is for bovine leather in the dry state (crust). If the leather has been further prepared beyond tanning (e.g., dyed or fat-liquored in a way that constitutes finishing), it may be pushed into heading 4107, although 4107 generally applies to dry finished leather. It is also important not to confuse these with raw pickled hides in 4101, which have not yet been tanned.

FAQ

What is the HS code for bovine wet-blue?

The HS code for bovine wet-blue (tanned but wet, excluding full grains and grain splits) is 4104.19.

Why is wet-blue classified differently than crust leather?

The Harmonized System distinguishes between wet and dry states because the weight, preservation method, and stage of manufacturing differ significantly, affecting both the value and the environmental regulations surrounding the transport of the goods.