HS Code for CR rubber

HS code 4002.49 applies to synthetic chloroprene rubber (CR) in primary forms other than latex, or in plates, sheets, and strip. This material, widely known by the trade name Neoprene, is valued for its chemical stability and flexibility over a wide temperature range. The classification covers the solid raw material used in manufacturing. To fall under this code, the rubber must not be "compounded" with fillers, plasticizers, or vulcanizing agents; if it is compounded, it moves to heading 4005. This code is essential for industrial suppliers who provide the raw elastomer to manufacturers of gaskets, hoses, and automotive parts. The Harmonized System uses this code to monitor the trade of solid synthetic elastomers that are ready for further processing or compounding into specific industrial formulations.

Products Included

• Solid chloroprene rubber blocks
• CR rubber sheets (uncompounded)
• Polychloroprene strips in primary forms
• CR rubber crumbs, chips, or pellets
• Unvulcanized chloroprene rubber slabs

Common Misclassification

A common error is using HS code 4002.41, which is strictly for the latex (liquid) form of chloroprene. Another frequent misclassification is HS code 4005.91, which covers compounded rubber in plates or sheets. If the CR rubber has been mixed with carbon black, silica, or other reinforcing agents prior to import, it must be classified under 4005 rather than 4002.49. Furthermore, vulcanized rubber sheets are classified under 4008, which is a common point of confusion for importers of finished rubber sheeting.

FAQ

What is the HS code for CR rubber?

The HS code for solid chloroprene rubber (CR) in primary forms or sheets is 4002.49.

Does this code cover vulcanized neoprene sheets?

No, vulcanized rubber is classified under heading 4008. HS code 4002.49 is reserved for unvulcanized synthetic rubber in primary forms or specific shapes like sheets that have not yet undergone vulcanization.