HS Code for Combed fine animal hair

HS code 5105.39 is designated for fine animal hair that has been carded or combed, excluding hair from Kashmir (cashmere) goats. Fine animal hair is defined in Note 1(b) to Chapter 51 as the hair of alpaca, llama, vicuna, camel (including dromedary), yak, Angora, Tibetan, Kashmir or similar goats (but not common goats), rabbit (including Angora rabbit), hare, beaver, nutria, or muskrat. The combing process is a critical technical requirement for this code; it involves the mechanical alignment of these luxury fibers into a continuous sliver or top, removing shorter fibers to ensure the resulting yarn is of the highest quality. Classification under 5105.39 is determined by the 'other' category within the fine animal hair subheadings, meaning it captures all fine hair species except for the specifically mentioned Kashmir goat hair. This ensures that high-value fibers like alpaca and camel hair are distinguished from both standard wool and coarser animal hairs during international trade.

Products Included

• Combed alpaca tops and slivers
• Combed camel hair prepared for spinning
• Combed Angora rabbit hair
• Combed yak hair slivers
• Combed vicuna or llama hair

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 5105.31, which is specifically reserved for combed Kashmir (cashmere) goat hair. Importers often mistakenly use 5105.39 for cashmere due to its status as a fine hair, but the HS nomenclature requires the specific separation of cashmere. Another error involves HS code 5102.19, which covers fine animal hair that is raw or only carded but not yet combed. If the fiber has undergone the combing stage to create 'tops,' it must be moved from 5102 to 5105.39. Additionally, combed wool (from sheep) is classified under 5105.29 and should not be confused with fine animal hair.

FAQ

What is the HS code for combed fine animal hair?

The HS code for combed fine animal hair (other than cashmere) is 5105.39.

Is mohair classified under this HS code?

Yes, mohair (from the Angora goat) that has been carded or combed is classified under 5105.39, as it is defined as a fine animal hair in the HS notes.