HS Code for Hem-fir lumber

Hem-fir lumber is classified under HS code 4407.14. This classification falls under Chapter 44, which covers wood and articles of wood. Heading 4407 is designated for wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, sanded, or end-jointed, of a thickness exceeding 6 mm. The Harmonized System further divides coniferous wood based on species. Hem-fir is a commercial grouping used primarily in North America to describe a mix of Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and various True Firs (Abies species, such as Abies concolor or Abies magnifica). Because these species share similar structural properties and are often processed and shipped together, the HS system provides a specific subheading, 4407.14, to facilitate trade. This classification requires that the wood be coniferous and meet the dimensional requirements of heading 4407. The wood must be sawn or chipped to a thickness greater than 6 mm to qualify. If the wood is further processed beyond simple sawing or planing—for example, if it is continuously shaped along any of its edges (moulded)—it would move to heading 4409. The classification 4407.14 is essential for tracking the trade of these specific timber species used extensively in construction.

Products Included

• Sawn Western Hemlock lumber
• Sawn True Fir lumber (e.g., White Fir, Noble Fir)
• Hem-fir dimension lumber for framing
• Planed Hem-fir boards exceeding 6mm thickness
• End-jointed Hem-fir structural timber

Common Misclassification

Hem-fir is often misclassified under 4407.11 (Pine) or 4407.12 (Fir and Spruce) if the specific species mix is not clearly identified. While Hem-fir contains fir, the 4407.12 code is specifically for the Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF) group or pure Fir/Spruce, whereas 4407.14 is the dedicated code for the Hem-fir commercial group. Another error is using 4403.21, which is for logs (wood in the rough); 4407.14 only applies once the wood has been sawn or chipped lengthwise.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Hem-fir lumber?

The HS code for Hem-fir lumber is 4407.14, covering coniferous wood sawn lengthwise of a thickness exceeding 6 mm.

Does Hem-fir include Douglas Fir?

No, Douglas Fir is a separate species group and is typically classified under HS code 4407.13, not 4407.14.