HS Code for Cotton blend denim
HS code 5211.42 is a highly specific classification for denim fabrics that are predominantly made of man-made fibers but contain a significant portion of cotton. Specifically, the fabric must contain less than 85% cotton by weight and be mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibers. Additionally, the fabric must weigh more than 200 grams per square meter (g/m2). The "denim" designation refers to a specific 3-thread or 4-thread twill weave, including broken twill, where the warp threads are colored (usually indigo) and the weft threads are white, grey, or uncolored. This code is part of Chapter 52, which covers cotton, but the subheadings under 5211 are reserved for heavier blended fabrics where cotton is not the majority fiber. Accurate classification requires precise laboratory testing of fiber content and weight to ensure the 85% threshold is not exceeded and the weight is correctly measured. This code is vital for the global garment industry, particularly for manufacturers of durable workwear and fashion jeans.
Products Included
- Cotton-polyester blend denim
- Heavyweight stretch denim (cotton/elastane blend)
- Denim fabric with synthetic filament reinforcement
- Yarn-dyed cotton blend twill (denim weave)
- Industrial-grade cotton blend denim
Common Misclassification
A frequent misclassification is 5209.42, which is used for denim that contains 85% or more cotton by weight. Another common error is using 5211.32, which covers dyed cotton blend fabrics of a similar weight but without the specific denim weave structure. Additionally, if the fabric weighs 200 g/m2 or less, it would be classified under 5210.49. Importers also sometimes confuse these with Chapter 55 fabrics (synthetic staple fibers) if the man-made fiber content is high, but Chapter 52 takes precedence if the blend is specifically mixed with cotton as defined in the chapter notes.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Cotton blend denim?
The HS code for denim containing less than 85% cotton, mixed with man-made fibers and weighing over 200g/m2, is 5211.42.
What defines a fabric as "denim" for this HS code?
For HS purposes, denim must be a twill weave (3 or 4 thread) where the warp is colored and the weft is uncolored, as specified in Subheading Note 1 to Chapter 52.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Cotton blend denim?
The HS code for Cotton blend denim is 521142 (Fabrics, woven; containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing more than 200g/m2, of yarns of different colours, denim).
How do I classify Cotton blend denim for customs?
Cotton blend denim is classified under HS code 521142 — Fabrics, woven; containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing more than 200g/m2, of yarns of different colours, denim. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Cotton blend denim the same in all countries?
The base HS code 521142 for Cotton blend denim is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.