HS Code for hackled flax

Hackled flax is classified under HS code 5301.29. This stage of flax processing occurs after scutching and involves combing the flax fibers through a series of 'hackles' (metal combs) to align the fibers and remove any remaining impurities or short fibers (tow). The result is 'line flax,' which consists of long, parallel, and clean fibers ready for the spinning process. The HS code 5301.29 is a specific sub-category for flax that has been 'hackled or otherwise processed, but not spun.' This means the fiber has undergone significant mechanical refinement but has not yet been transformed into yarn. The classification is part of the 5301 heading, which covers raw or processed flax but excludes finished textiles. Hackled flax is a high-value commodity in the textile supply chain, as it represents the premium fiber used for fine linen yarns. Customs authorities look for the absence of twist (which would indicate yarn) and the high degree of fiber alignment to verify this classification. It is the penultimate stage of flax fiber preparation before it enters the spinning mill.

Products Included

• Hackled flax (line flax)
• Combed flax fibers in bundles
• Flax sliver (if produced by combing and not yet spun)
• Refined flax fibers ready for spinning
• Long-staple flax fibers separated from tow

Common Misclassification

Hackled flax is often confused with 5301.21 (scutched flax). Scutched flax is the fiber after the woody core (shives) has been removed but before it has been combed/hackled. Another common error is 5301.30 (tow), which is the byproduct of the hackling process itself. Finally, if the hackled flax has been twisted into a continuous strand for sewing or weaving, it must be classified as yarn under 5306 rather than 5301.29.

FAQ

What is the HS code for hackled flax?

The HS code for hackled or otherwise processed (but not spun) flax is 5301.29.

What is the difference between scutched and hackled flax?

Scutched flax (5301.21) is the raw fiber after the first mechanical cleaning. Hackled flax (5301.29) has undergone an additional combing process to align the long fibers and remove the short tow fibers.