HS Code for Candle wicks

Candle wicks are classified under HS code 5908.00. This heading is specifically designated for textile wicks, woven, plaited, or knitted, for lamps, stoves, lighters, candles, or the like. It also includes incandescent gas mantles and tubular knitted gas mantle fabric. Chapter 59 covers impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated textile fabrics and textile articles of a kind suitable for industrial use. The classification of a candle wick depends on its construction as a textile product. Most modern wicks are made from braided cotton fibers, which are designed to provide a consistent capillary action to draw fuel (wax) to the flame. The construction method—whether it is woven, plaited, or knitted—is a key requirement for this heading. Even if the wick is treated with chemicals (mordanting) to control the burn rate or is reinforced with a core of other materials like paper or fine metal wire, it remains classified under 5908.00 because the primary functional component is the textile structure. This code is used globally to track the trade of specialized textile components used in the lighting and heating industries. It is important to note that this code applies to the wicks as individual components; once they are incorporated into a finished candle, the entire article is classified under a different heading (3406). The precision of this classification allows customs authorities to distinguish between general-purpose cords and specialized industrial textile components.

Products Included

• Braided cotton wicks for candles
• Woven wicks for oil lamps
• Plaited wicks for cigarette lighters
• Metal-core textile wicks
• Paper-core textile wicks

Common Misclassification

Candle wicks are often misclassified under HS code 5208 or 5209, which cover woven fabrics of cotton. However, because wicks are finished articles with a specific industrial function and a particular construction (often plaited or tubular), they must be classified under 5908.00. Another common mistake is classifying them under 3406.00 (candles, tapers and the like); this code is only for the finished candle, not the individual wick component imported separately.

FAQ

What is the HS code for candle wicks?

The HS code for candle wicks is 5908.00, covering textile wicks for candles and lamps.

Does the HS code change if the wick has a wire core?

No, as long as the wick is primarily a textile structure (woven, plaited, or knitted), it remains under 5908.00 even if it contains a metal or paper core.