HS Code for Fiberfill

Fiberfill is classified under HS code 5601.22. This classification is governed by the provisions of Chapter 56, which covers wadding, felt, and nonwovens. Heading 5601 specifically includes wadding of textile materials and articles thereof. Fiberfill is essentially wadding made from man-made fibers, such as polyester or nylon, which has been processed to create loft and volume for use as stuffing or insulation. Subheading 5601.22 is the specific designation for wadding of man-made fibers. The material is characterized by its loose, fibrous structure where the fibers are entangled or lightly bonded to form a soft mass. This differs from staple fibers in Chapter 55, which have not yet been processed into wadding form. The classification process involves identifying the fiber type (synthetic or artificial) and the state of the material (wadding). Fiberfill is widely used in the textile and furniture industries for filling pillows, comforters, and upholstered furniture. It provides thermal insulation and cushioning. Under the HS system, the transition from raw fiber to wadding is a significant manufacturing step that moves the product from Chapter 55 to Heading 5601. The specific use of the term wadding in the heading text is the primary justification for this classification, as fiberfill meets all the physical characteristics of textile wadding. Additionally, if the fiberfill is presented as a finished article (like a pillow), it would move to Chapter 94, but as a bulk material or simple rolls of batting, it remains in 5601.22. The material may be treated with chemicals for flame retardancy or anti-microbial properties, but as long as it retains its character as wadding, the classification remains unchanged.

Products Included

• Polyester fiberfill batting
• Synthetic wadding for upholstery
• Pillow stuffing (bulk man-made fibers)
• Quilt filling material
• Insulation wadding of man-made fibers

Common Misclassification

Fiberfill is often misclassified under heading 5503, which covers synthetic staple fibers. However, 5503 is for raw fibers that have not been carded or combed into wadding. It may also be confused with nonwovens in heading 5603, but wadding (5601) is generally loftier and less consolidated than nonwoven fabrics.

FAQ

What is the HS code for fiberfill?

The HS code for fiberfill made of man-made fibers is 5601.22.

Is fiberfill the same as polyester staple fiber?

No, polyester staple fiber is raw material (5503), while fiberfill is the processed wadding (5601.22) ready for use as stuffing.