HS Code for Carded wool

The classification of carded wool under HS code 5105.10 is determined by the specific mechanical processing the raw wool has undergone. Chapter 51 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to wool, fine or coarse animal hair, and horsehair yarn and woven fabric. Within this chapter, heading 51.05 specifically addresses wool and fine or coarse animal hair that has been carded or combed. Carding is a fundamental mechanical process in the textile industry that involves disentangling, cleaning, and intermixing fibers to produce a continuous web or sliver. This process is essential for preparing the wool for subsequent spinning into yarn. The carding process removes residual vegetable matter and short fibers, though not as extensively as the combing process. Subheading 5105.10 is reserved for wool that has completed the carding stage but has not yet been subjected to combing. This distinction is vital because combed wool (often referred to as wool tops) is classified under a different subheading, 5105.29. The classification follows General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since the product is wool and the primary process applied is carding, it fits the legal definition of this code. Importers must ensure that the wool has not been further processed into yarn, as that would move the classification to headings 51.06 through 51.09. The physical state of the wool—whether in bulk, slivers, or webs—is the primary indicator for this code.

Products Included

• Carded wool slivers
• Carded wool in bulk or rolls
• Carded wool webs
• Scoured wool that has undergone the carding process

Common Misclassification

Carded wool is frequently confused with combed wool, which falls under HS code 5105.29. The difference lies in the degree of fiber alignment and the removal of short fibers (noils). Additionally, raw or greasy wool is classified under heading 51.01, and wool that has been carbonized but not carded is classified under 51.01.30. Misclassifying carded wool as yarn (51.06) is also common if the sliver is mistaken for a finished yarn product.

FAQ

What is the HS code for carded wool?

The HS code for carded wool is 5105.10, which covers wool that has been mechanically processed to align fibers but has not been combed.

What is the difference between carded and combed wool in the HS system?

Carded wool (5105.10) is the initial stage of fiber alignment, resulting in a loftier texture. Combed wool (5105.29) undergoes an additional step to remove short fibers and create a smoother, more parallel fiber arrangement used for worsted yarns.