HS Code for Combed wool

Combed wool, specifically in the form of wool tops or other continuous forms, is classified under HS code 5105.29. This classification is part of Chapter 51, which covers wool and animal hair. The term 'combed wool' refers to wool that has undergone a rigorous mechanical process to remove short fibers (noils) and impurities, leaving only the long, straight fibers aligned in a parallel fashion. This resulting product is typically called a 'wool top.' The subheading 5105.29 is a residual category for combed wool that is not in 'fragments' (which are covered by 5105.21). This distinction is vital for the textile industry, as wool tops are the primary raw material for worsted spinning, leading to high-quality, smooth fabrics. Under GRI 1 and 6, the product is classified here because it is sheep's wool, it has been combed, and it is presented in a continuous form rather than broken pieces or fragments.

Products Included

• Wool tops (continuous slivers of combed wool)
• Combed wool slivers for worsted yarn production
• Combed wool in the form of continuous laps
• De-haired and combed sheep's wool
• Gilled wool slivers

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification is HS code 5105.10, which covers wool that has only been carded. Carded wool is loftier and less aligned than combed wool and is used for woolen rather than worsted spinning. Another frequent error is using HS code 5105.21, which is specifically for combed wool in fragments. If the wool top is continuous and intact, it must stay in 5105.29. Furthermore, combed fine animal hair (like alpaca) is often mistaken for combed wool, but it must be classified under 5105.31 or 5105.39 depending on the species, as Chapter 51 distinguishes strictly between sheep's wool and other animal hairs.

FAQ

What is the HS code for combed wool?

The HS code for combed wool in continuous form (tops) is 5105.29.

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

Carded wool (5105.10) is the initial stage of disentangling fibers, while combed wool (5105.29) is a further refined stage where fibers are aligned and short hairs are removed.