HS Code for Greasy shorn wool

Classification under HS code 5101.11 is determined by the specific state of the wool and the method by which it was harvested. Chapter 51 of the Harmonized System governs wool, fine or coarse animal hair, and horsehair yarn. Within this chapter, heading 5101 is dedicated to wool that has not been carded or combed. The specific subheading 5101.11 is reserved for wool that is both \"greasy\" and \"shorn.\" Greasy wool refers to wool as it is taken directly from the sheep, containing its natural lanolin (wool grease), suint (perspiration salts), and various types of vegetable matter or dirt. The term \"shorn\" indicates that the wool was harvested by shearing a live animal. This classification excludes wool that has been scoured, bleached, or dyed, as well as wool obtained from skins (pulled wool). The distinction is critical because the grease content significantly affects the weight and subsequent processing requirements of the fiber. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, wool is considered greasy when it has not been scoured, although it may have been fleece-washed. Fleece-washing is a process where the sheep is washed in cold water before being shorn, which removes some surface dirt but leaves the lanolin intact. This distinguishes it from scoured wool, which has undergone a more rigorous cleaning process using hot water, soap, or alkali. The greasy state is preferred by some manufacturers who wish to perform their own scouring to recover lanolin as a byproduct. In international trade, the yield of clean wool from a greasy batch is a major pricing factor. The classification also relies on the distinction between wool and fine animal hair; wool specifically refers to the fiber from sheep (Ovis aries).

Products Included

• Raw fleece from live sheep shearing
• Fleece-washed shorn wool
• Greasy wool in staples or locks
• Unprocessed shorn wool containing lanolin

Common Misclassification

Greasy shorn wool is frequently confused with HS code 5101.19, which covers other greasy wool that is not shorn (such as pulled or slipe wool). It is also often misclassified under 5101.21, which is the code for shorn wool that has already been degreased or scoured. Another common error involves 5102, which is used for fine or coarse animal hair from animals other than sheep, such as goats or camels.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Greasy shorn wool?

The HS code for greasy shorn wool, not carded or combed, is 5101.11.

What is the difference between shorn and pulled wool?

Shorn wool is cut from a live animal using shears, while pulled wool (classified under 5101.19) is removed from the skins of slaughtered animals using chemical or mechanical processes.